Unpacking the Skin Whitening Products For Sale: Understanding the Risks and Implications
Skin whitening has been a trend for decades, particularly in countries with a history of colonialism and colorism. The idea that lighter skin is more desirable and associated with beauty, success, and privilege has created a multi-billion-dollar industry of skin whitening products. However, the use of such products has been widely criticized for their health risks, unethical marketing tactics, and perpetuation of harmful beauty standards. Skin whitening products, also known as skin lightening or bleaching products, typically contain chemicals that inhibit the production of melanin, the pigment that gives color to our skin. Hydroquinone, corticosteroids, and mercury are some of the commonly used ingredients in these products. While they may reduce the appearance of dark spots, freckles, and other skin discolorations, the long-term use of these chemicals can cause severe damage to the skin, including hyperpigmentation, thinning of the skin, and increased risk of skin cancer. ...