Here, our experts break down everything there is to know about anal bleaching, including why guys do it—and how to do it safely. People who are into erotic asphyxiation say it can heighten sexual arousal and make orgasms more intense. But breath play isn't without its risks —… READ MORE

Don’t get your freak on. Sex can lead to tiny tears in your anal region. This increases your risk of discomfort during and after your bleaching treatment. So, avoid anal or vajayjay sex for at least 3 days before your visit. Chemicals typically found in anal bleaching formulations include hydroquinone, kojic acid, glycolic acid, arbutin, azelaic acid, malic acid, licorice extract, niacinamide, and mulberry extract,” Cheung says. You may have to go in a couple of times to get the desired color. Laser TreatmentAlthough it’s possible to DIY, estheticians and other specialists have access to better quality products that can deliver consistent results. Any of the bleaching treatments outlined above can lead to scarring (aka anal strictures), which could prevent the anus from properly stretching during bowel movements, and ultimately lead to constipation and pain while evacuating your bowels, according to Dr. De Latour. “This is a very sensitive area of the body, and there are no studies that show what the real risks of anal bleaching are,” she says. 8. It’s best to talk with an MD to make sure you have the safest experience. shoppingListJS = new ShoppingListJS({storeId: '11352',catalogId: '28501',langId: '-1'}, {id: '1857', name: 'Anusol Cream 23g', image: '/wcsstore/null/image not defined', type: 'ItemBean', components: {}, skus: []}, {}, "shoppingListJS"); If you spring for pro anal bleaching, it’s extra important to choose a provider with a dermatologist or gynecologist on staff to oversee the procedure, Dr. De Latour says. Alternatively, Dr. Zeichner suggests consulting a dermatologist about DIY products before using them. There are a lot of unregulated products out there on the market, especially that aren’t sold by U.S. vendors and aren’t necessarily FDA-approved. These products may not have all ingredients labeled and could have unsafe amounts of topical steroids...the side effects of these anal bleaching creams could also be highly unpleasant, like skin rashes, scarring, ulcers, and even discoloration, according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association. All in all, you can get results performing anal bleaching on your own! But they’re not likely to be as effective as results from a professional service. And make sure you’re being very careful! In Conclusion

A person can choose to get professional treatment using creams, ointments, or lasers. Or they can opt to use an OTC cream or ointment. Whether it’s shaving, waxing, epilating, vajazzling or just tending to routine medical needs, although we might not be able to see that area on the reg, it’s not easy to forget about. Some skin-lightening products aren’t well-regulated, which means you may not know what the active ingredients are. This is especially true of products manufactured outside of the United States. Product PSA. A lot of skin-lightening products — especially brands made outside the United States — aren’t regulated. So, you won’t always know what’s really going on with your body. And your anus is one area you don’t wanna mess with. (Trust us.) Ingredients to look out for Although likely safe under the supervision of a medical professional, using OTC products may contain high levels of ingredients, such as hydroquinone, that may cause adverse effects.Improper technique. If a technician isn’t trained properly, they may apply the product incorrectly. You could develop scarring, burning, or permanent skin damage as a result.