📖 The wide spread use of skin lightening creams around the world to ultimately achieve beauty and better look has resulted in the corresponding increase in side effects or health complications associated with such practice. This is mostly as a result of the use of hydroquinone, mercury or corticosteroids in the making of such creams. The use of these agents in skin lightening creams is therefore regulated and/or banned by regulatory agencies. However, the regulation is not very clear, thus, the composition and toxicity associated with the contents of those creams are not clearly understood by both those who sell and use these creams. It is therefore imperative for both the sellers and users to be informed about the nature of the toxicity of these components so that they can make a sound and informed decision regarding the use or otherwise of these skin lightening creams.