Reference: Fataawa Noor ‘alad-Darb – Volume 11, Page 71, Question No.5614
Question: What is the ruling regarding skin-whitening creams? Is there any harm in women using them?
Response: If it causes permanent whitening [of the skin] then it is not permissible, because it resembles tattooing [which is prohibited]; if, however, it causes temporary [superficial] whitening – whereby it can be removed after washing, then there is no harm in that.