Don’t use the creams. They’re not going to lighten you up considerably…and they’ll inhibit melanin production in your skin…thus making your skin more sensitive to the sun…which accelerates aging of the skin and increases risk of skin cancer. That said, do apply sunblock at least 15-30 minutes before going out during the day (in the event that you succumb to your mom’s fears and decide to apply the creams) .
If you’re confident about the way you look…it will reflect outwardly…and confidence is attractive. Skin color can’t compensate for that. It’s not just skin color…people will reject rishtas for other reasons as well. If someone turns you down…that just clears your path to find a BETTER person.