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- 1.Certain foods may stimulate the development of pigment. These foods should be consumed in moderation, lest they interfere with the absorption and function of the pills. They include bananas, pumpkin, beef, almonds, lima beans, peanuts, egg yolk, soy sauce, dark fish and meats, seafood, avocado, lima beans and pickled herring.
- Other foods promote the whitening process. These include apples, grapes, yogurt, milk, onions, cabbage, broccoli, garlic, Brussels sprouts, horseradish, turnips, asparagus and egg whites.
- Soy-based products contain genistein, an isoflavone that acts as an antioxidant. It has also been shown to mimic the effects of estrogen in the human body. Genistein is said to increase melanin production and have a similar effect on tyrosinase, which are the enzymes of the skin's pigment cells. Therefore, it is recommended that soy foods be consumed in moderation.
- Foods containing coloring of any sort are to be avoided, as they contain elevated amounts of pigment.
- Coffee, tea, diet sodas and sugar-free foods all contribute to the skin's pigmentation. The aspartame in the latter two products may increase the production of eumelanin (a type of melanin found in human skin and hair; it is deficient in albinos).
- Stay out of the sunlight if possible. If exposed to sunlight, be sure to use sunscreen at all times.
- Exfoliate the skin regularly. Removal of dead skin cells and debris contributes to a smoother, renewed surface, which in turn is thought to "accept" the benefits of the skin whitening pills more readily.
