What are some safe and healthy products towards achieving smooth and fair skin (face)

:hiya so basically i've been using very minute amounts of fair and lovely cream...usually just before i leave somewhere but ive been told that such products can have a very bad long term affect.
....so basically i would like a more safer but yet effective approach towards achieving a nice smooth, even , fair skin tone.

some good suggestion of creams and lotions would be helpful...but i want to try to avoid those that make my face appear to oily.

my skin is kind of light brownish and usually experiences dry discomfort...also i kind of have sensative skin so i'm uncomfortable using extensive products...and i am a guy...whos just kind of insecure about his skin tone

someone please help =[ ....:drowning.
thankyou in advance