Skin lightening/ whitening/ bleaching products are fuelling racism. As Lupita Nyong'o summarised "Colourism is the daughter of racism". 

Eurocentric beauty standards place 'whiteness' on a pedestal - this is a form of white supremacy. Those of darker skin tones are made to think, feel and perceive lighter skin tones as superior and can often attribute their lifestyle choices on this notion. Stereotypes attached reinforce a loss of ethnic identity, self-doubt, self-esteem and confidence.

Although legislation is attempting to control the availability of the most toxic skin lightening products, they are still easily available in stores such as beauty complexes, ayurvedic stores, the black market, pharmacies and online. 

Negative health effects associated with these products include a number of cancers and Ochronosis. The most harmful chemicals found in these products are hydroquinone, mequional and retinoid, the long term use of which interrupts melanin production and creates irreversible damage on melanocytes causing skin irritation. 

Please sign and share, let's take small steps together to combat racism in all its forms.