In West Africa, a troubling trend of skin bleaching, fueled by the desire for fairer skin associated with higher social status and beauty, has raised significant health concerns and exposed a web of scams. An Ivorian YouTuber’s futile experience with skin-whitening injections, purchased at a market stall in Abidjan, exemplifies the growing disillusionment and risks associated with these treatments. Despite the global market for bleaching treatments estimated to rise from $10 billion in 2021 to $16 billion in 2030, the effectiveness and safety of these products remain questionable, as highlighted by the World Health Organization (WHO), which labels skin bleaching as a “global health problem.”
While creams have traditionally dominated the market, injectable treatments promising faster and more uniform results have surged in popularity, especially among the youth. However, the ingredients and manufacturing processes of these injections often lack oversight, posing significant health risks. Dermatologists warn that some injections may contain harmful anti-inflammatory agents or steroids, leading to severe side effects such as depigmentation, diabetes, and hypertension. Furthermore, glutathione injections, sought after by wealthier individuals for their powerful antioxidant properties, carry risks of skin pathologies and kidney failure, with Ghana issuing a public health alert in 2021 due to their “toxic side effects.”
The method of administration of these injections also raises concerns. The practice of receiving injections from unqualified vendors or self-administering at home without medical supervision can lead to the spread of communicable diseases. Despite bans on certain whitening products, those containing glutathione remain widely available, further complicating efforts to regulate the market.
Investigations into the authenticity of these products have unveiled alarming scams. An AFP analysis revealed that vials purchased from a vendor in Abidjan, which were supposed to contain glutathione, actually consisted of vitamins, proteins, and sugar, with no trace of the promised active ingredient. Efforts to trace the manufacturers of these products often lead to dead ends, with companies either non-existent or operating under dubious circumstances.
The persistence of the skin-whitening trend, despite its risks and the prevalence of scams, reflects deeper societal issues. Zimbabwean researcher Shingirai Mtero suggests that the desire for lighter skin is rooted in colonial legacies that have left enduring impacts on beauty standards in Africa. This underscores the complex interplay between historical influences and contemporary practices that perpetuate harmful beauty standards.
As the demand for skin-whitening treatments continues to grow in West Africa, the need for stringent regulation, education, and awareness about the dangers associated with these practices becomes increasingly urgent. Addressing the root causes of this trend, including challenging the societal norms and prejudices that fuel it, is essential for promoting healthier and more inclusive beauty standards. This issue requires concerted efforts from governments, health organizations, and communities to mitigate the health risks involved and to dismantle the scams exploiting individuals’ desires for fairer skin.
Source: The Guardian
