Over the years many people of African descent have opted to make the shade of their skin lighter as a result of easy access to a range of over-the-counter bleaching agents. In some parts of Africa, like Tanzania and Angola, bleaching agents have become a cosmetic item on one's dresser.The documentary Shadeism-a must-see, written by Nayani Thiyagarajah, a recent graduate of the Ryerson School of Journalism, also highlighted the fact that bleaching isn't only practised among blacks, but it is also very prevalent among Latin American and Asian women. But more so, her documentary zeroed in on the social, stereotypical and strong psychological attachments most have, resulting in the desire to be more light-skinned.
Is bleaching really a trend?
In the 21st century where it seems anything goes, many social taboos are no longer denied. As we moved into the era of freedom of expression and rights for all, we are now faced with a generation who will cling and conform to any group, or any craze that would afford them a sense of belonging.With the recent controversy surrounding Jamaican dancehall superstar Vybz Kartel's blatant bleaching practices, many have been left feeling cheated, that Kartel, like others in the past, has disowned his heritage and is ashamed of his blackness.But Kartel in numerous interviews, and even as he lectured a group of students recently at UWI (Mona Campus) in Jamaica, defended his decision to bleach, saying it was a personal decision and like many other former taboos, bleaching had now become "trendy."Nonetheless, whatever his reasons, it still begs the question-why interfere with your God-given skin colour?
Other international artistes such as Beyonce Knowles have also come under fire for claims that she allowed beauty giant-L'Oreal to lighten her skin complexion in one of its ads in 2008, in a head-shot to promote the Feria highlighting product by the brand.Knowles appeared to have a lighter skin tone than usual. The photograph, which appeared on the US edition of Elle Magazine, created quite a stir on both sides of the Atlantic after commentators suggested the firm had digitally lightened Knowles' complexion. The New York Post, in a piece titled-Beyonce the Pale, called the advert "shocking" and said she was "virtually unrecognisable."
The truth behind bleaching
While bleaching agents may seem like a God-send to many, some dermatologists have warned time and time again, that bleaching is also harmful to the person using it.Bleaching typically involves the use of creams on the skin in an attempt to lighten the pigment. Some products have a bleaching element, actually stripping the skin of its pigment over time. And while many of these products are effective, they carry with them numerous side effects and can be dangerous to use.
Cushing's Disease
In some skin whitening creams, there's an ingredient called a corticosteroid, which is used in the treatment of numerous skin conditions. Overusing this drug can lead to a condition called Cushing's Disease, which causes the adrenal glands to function improperly, allowing too much cortisol to remain in the body.
Thinning skin
Another effect of using skin whitening products that contain corticosteroids is the thinning of the skin. Over time, areas of the skin where you apply these creams can become thinner, leaving them very sensitive, dry, and weak. These areas can bruise more easily and are slow to heal.
Mercury Poisoning
Some skin whitening creams contain mercury, which is extremely toxic. If you're exposed to too much of this substance, kidney damage and even neurological damage can occur. Psychological problems and birth defects have also been associated with mercury poisoning contracted through the skin.
Light Sensitivity
Since most skin whitening creams lessen the amount of melanin in your skin, you are much more susceptible to sunburn and subsequently skin cancer due to your increased exposure to UV rays.