Editors Note: This story is part of 'White lies', a series by CNN's As Equals investigating skin whitening practices worldwide to expose the underlying drivers of colorism, the industry that profits from it and the cost to individuals and communities. For information about how CNN As Equals is funded and more, check out our FAQs.
In 2020, the global skin whitening market was reportedly valued at $8.6bn. It is projected to grow to $13.7bn by 2025.
After reading this article I can totally understand why skin whitening is not the way to go. Not only is it harmful for the skin but it highlights the issue of colorism in the world. I was thinking about how Michael Jackson had to whiten his skin because of his vitiligo, and although I cant think for him I wonder if he thought it would be the best thing for his celebrity status and to avoid getting teased on for his condition.
There is no safe or reliable way to lighten someone's skin tone. I can see why this would result in serious side effects and complications.
@sydneymissaleiectskin-com I agree it highlights the issue of colorism in this world.
Skin whitening is harmful in many ways, if it very harmful for your skin. But the entire idea can be damaging to society, you should not have to feel like you need to change your skin color.
@sydneymissaleiectskin-com I agree, I have thought the same thing about micheal jackson, im sure he got plenty of attention when he got that procedure done.
There are so many products out there to whiten the skin and I think it's manly with celebrities. I have looked back are certain celebrities like Rihanna, Nicki Minaj and Lil Kim. They used to have darker skin but through the years they have all changed. I know eventually it will show on their skin.
@emmamidgettiectskin-com Unfortunately, skin whitening is popular in the islands and growing up I remember seeing a lot of people with faces that were 3 to 4 shades lighter than the rest of their body, then eventually I would see their face look burned or peeling.
@sydneymissaleiectskin-com It was such a stigma of being a celebrity and not being perfect, at least during his time. Celebrities are more casual now, but at the time Michael Jackson was coming up, celebrity status was almost unattainable and most people saw celebrities as near perfect, so for him I think it was that. At the same time, according to him and every story heard about him growing up his father was abusive and used to call him ugly because of his physical appearance, so there may have been a lot of trauma behind his color change.
