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| - Last Updated on January 2, 2024 by Shabnam Sengupta
Quick Take
A video on social media claims that people can achieve fair feet using glycerine, rose water, aloe vera gel, and vitamin E. We fact-checked and found the claim to be Mostly False.
The Claim
A video on Facebook claims that mixing and applying glycerine, rose water, aloe vera gel, and vitamin E on the feet, makes the skin fair.
We have attached the screenshot of the post below:
Fact Check
What makes our skin have different colours?
Our skin comes in many tones and colours for various reasons. But mainly, our genes decide what our skin colour is like. There is an enzyme called tyrosinase that is important for controlling how our skin looks. Melanin, which is made by cells called melanocytes in our skin, is the main thing that decides our skin colour. This means that our genes are managed by how much and what kind of melanin we have.
Our skin colour can also be influenced by our genes and sunlight. When we are in the sun, our body can make more melanin, and that is what causes tanning. Vitamin D, similar to melanin, can affect how our skin looks by helping our skin cells grow and change.
Can you get fair feet instantly using glycerine, rose water, aloe vera gel, and vitamin E?
Not exactly. The combination of glycerine, rose water, aloe vera gel, and vitamin E may offer some moisturizing and soothing properties for the feet. However, it is important to note that achieving instantly fair feet is not typically feasible through topical applications alone.
However, these ingredients have their benefits:
Glycerine: It is a humectant that attracts moisture to the skin. It keeps the skin hydrated.
Rose water: It is known for its soothing and mildly astringent properties, it can help refresh and tone the skin.
Aloe vera gel: It has moisturizing, cooling, and anti-inflammatory properties, which can be soothing for dry or irritated skin.
Dr Jyoti Kannangath, MD (Dermatology) comments on the use of Aloe vera by stating, “Aloesin, a compound extracted from Aloe vera, has demonstrated the ability to competitively inhibit tyrosinase, the enzyme responsible for skin pigmentation. However, there have been several published case reports documenting hypersensitivity reactions and contact dermatitis caused by aloe vera preparations”. In a previous article, THIP MEDIA extensively explored the effects of applying aloe vera on skin, shedding light on the extent the application of aloe vera make your skin glow and fairer.
Vitamin E: A potent antioxidant that helps nourish and protect the skin. However, it is difficult to confirm vitamin E as a standalone skin whitening treatment. In another fact check, we debunked vitamin E removes stretch marks.
From available evidence, it is clear that a mixture of these ingredients can provide hydration and some soothing effects to the feet. However, the results in terms of fairness may vary depending on individual skin types and conditions. For significant changes in skin tone, it is always better to consult a dermatologist than rely on these quick home remedies.
Dr Agarkar explains, “We have been fortunate to have a wonderful body and skin. Instead of trying to change our skin color, it’s essential to value and nurtures them. I consistently recommend my patients adopt a wholesome diet, exercise, sufficient sleep, and proper hydration. These practices unveil a natural radiance that surpasses any artificial skin whitening. When selecting skincare items, opt for those suited to your skin type.”
Dr Soumya Sachdeva, Consultant Dermatologist suggests, “Home remedies should be used with caution as many of the ingredients in these home face masks can cause various allergies and contact dermatitis. So as a dermatologist, I do not recommend such treatments. Sometimes these allergies can be severe, and later on, healing can leave resistant pigmentation on your face.”
Dr Kannangath summarizes by stating, “At-home remedies can help improve the appearance of dark circles, acne scars, and sun tan to some extent, but it is important to manage expectations. These remedies may not eliminate these issues, but they can contribute to gradual improvement over time. If you have severe concerns or are not seeing improvement with home remedies, it is best to consult a dermatologist for professional advice and treatments”.
Are there any side effects of relying on home remedies for an instant result?
Glycerine, rose water, aloe vera gel, and vitamin E are generally safe for skin use but may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals due to varying skin sensitivities. While glycerine moisturizes, rose water soothes, aloe vera gel hydrates and vitamin E provides antioxidants, it is essential to perform a patch test before widespread application, especially for those with sensitive skin or known allergies.
Dr Sachdeva suggests, “Rose water has anti-inflammatory properties which can soothe the skin and decrease redness of the skin. Thus, it may be beneficial in treating acne, however, not all skin types may tolerate the application of rose water on the face, due to the development of contact dermatitis.
Not only home remedies, people often look forward to Korean skincare creams to whiten their skin. In another fact check, we debunked whether a Korean skin cream provides instant skin whitening results.
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