1: Whitening will make you look like a vampire from Twilight

This is a misconception that was debunked a long time ago, says Dr Patrina Wong, medical aesthetic director of LinC Aesthetic Clinic in Liat Towers. These days, whitening refers to achieving an even skin tone. The aim is to ensure the base colour of the skin is the lightest tone and that the same tone applies throughout the face. She adds: 'The skin is not lightened beyond its normal tones such that it becomes white.'

2: Once you stop using whitening products, your skin will revert to its original colour

Once you have achieved your desired skin tone, it is recommended that you continue using whitening products to maintain it, says Angela Boh, Shiseido's regional training manager.

However, she adds: 'You may use normal skincare products but you need to ensure that you have sufficient protection against UV rays so as to prevent the recurrence of excess melanin and spots.'

3: The ingredients in whitening products are harmful

Certain whitening ingredients are, indeed, harmful.

Hydroquinone, a powerful lightener, may cause hyperpigmentation to recur in some users after long-term use, says Dr Wong.

Products with a high concentration of AHAs (or alpha hydroxy acids), which exfoliate dead skin cells, may cause burns on some skins, resulting in deeper pigmentation and exacerbating the area affected.

To be safe, scrutinise the list of ingredients on all whitening potions. Try to limit self-application of AHAs to concentrations of below 10 per cent.

In addition, whitening products from Japan are categorised as quasi-drugs - between medicine and cosmetics - and the country is one of the strictest in the world in its regulation. Most products take more than 10 years of research before they are approved for sale and scientists have to test them on themselves.

4: Only old people need whitening

Dark spots are formed due to myriad reasons, including genetics, excessive sun exposure and hormonal influence, and are not limited to those who are old, says Dr Wong.

Whitening not only helps to lighten dark spots, but also helps to slough off excess layers of melanin-laden cells. This prevents hyperpigmentation and dull skin, says Boh.

She adds: 'Whitening is not only for older women. It is recommended for anyone who would like to achieve a fair, radiant and translucent complexion.'

This article was first published in Urban, The Straits Times.