What is the ruling on using whitening injections or pills?

Skin whitening with injections or pills is impermissible if it is for increasing beauty, because it is considered an alteration of Allah’s creation. It falls under the curse of those who tattoo, pluck eyebrows, and create gaps in teeth for beauty, who alter Allah’s creation. However, if it is for treating a disease or removing a defect, then there is no objection to it. Sheikh Ibn 'Uthaymeen mentioned that changing skin color in this way is more severe than tattooing, whereas removing acne and similar conditions is permissible because it is a treatment for a disease. One can suffice with whitening creams that do not permanently change skin color.