If we live in a culture where market size is synonymous with social importance, why don’t we talk about whitening?
In the aftermath of Black Lives Matter protests around the world last year, colorism (defined as discrimination against skin color within a racial or ethnic group – favoring those have lighter skin than those with darker skin) had a moment in the media. .
Many articles have been written highlighting the fact that some very virtuous companies that signal their commitment to black and brown lives in one part of the world, are also manufacturing and marketing products that associate brighter skin with prosperity and desire in another part of the world.
Before we can begin, we need to understand skin whitening – products and practices – in the current and diverse local context, and identify gaps that exist in the way skin whitening is communicated. international cover-up and find out why women have subject themselves to beauty habits that end up damaging their health.
Over the past few months, we’ve gathered dozens of skin-whitening cream users, healthcare professionals, regulators, researchers and academics, and others, for reasons For one reason or another, time and other resources have been spent testing the product or raising awareness about this harmful practice and its root causes.
We have also invited representatives from the skin whitening industry to participate in these conversations but have so far been unsuccessful in engaging cosmetic companies.
What we learned from these conversations convinced us that skin whitening is both a global threat and a useful solution to the “problem” of black skin. Toxic ingredients such as mercury and hydroquinone, which have been administered, frequently form creams; and finally, the illusory promise that lighter is better is marketed so much, so endemic and indisputable that women (and in some cultures, men too) have to do their best. trying to have “whiter” skin – the risks are staggering.
You can also join the global conversation on social media using hashtags #FightingWhitening.
If you’d like to work with us or send us tips, please email [email protected].
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