A Little Rant About Skin Lightening

This post is going to be a little different than the other ones, but I feel it's something that needs to be said.

Around the world (mainly in Western society) the word 'skin lightening' is associated with negative self image. People assume those who skin lighten are self-loathing, or have in some way internalized the 'European ideal' of beauty. This is false. In most cases, this is not true. Majority of people who are skin lightening are not trying to alter their identity, but in fact are trying to better their skin condition either by removing sun damage, fading acne scars and freckles or just overall having an even skin tone.

And even if a person was trying to lighten their skin a few shades - what is the harm in that, if this individual is doing it in an informed, healthy manner? The market is filled with natural skin lighteners, that are actually beneficial to the skin (i.e. Vitamin C is a proven skin whitening agent that builds collagen and protects against free radicals). I don't understand the ignorance regarding the issue.

People can freely tan and darken their skin to any degree they desire and recieve absolutley no criticism. But as soon as someone does the opposite and tries to lighten their skin - they are seen as weak minded fools that loathe themselves. Also the notion that 'skin lightening/whitening is harmful' just doesn't cut it. Like I stated earlier, people should research and inform themselves on the healthier, safer skin lighteners out there. In the last five or six years, the market for skin lightening has evolved immensley. Nowadays most major cosmetic, skin care brands have a lightening or some pigmentation correcting line sold in North America (i.e. Olay, Neutrogena, Clinique etc.)

Granted there are still some skin lightening/whitening products out there that have harmful ingredients in them like mercury and such, but those are fast becoming a rarity. People are making smarter decisions. They know hydroquinone can only be used on localized regions NOT the entire face or neck. They understand that sunscreen is important no matter what skin care reigmen you are on. The list goes on...

I also understand there are some people who lighten their skin because they DO want to alter their identity. That is a complex and issue that is specific to that individual. It does not encompass all the people who lighten their skin.

So, the point of this entire post was to elucidate the 'real' side of skin lightening and skin whitening. There is so much ignorance on this topic I just needed to make a post about it. Knowledge is power.

Thanks for reading,
Mileena =)