"The unfair drive to be fair": Psychosocial aspects and implications of the use of skin lightening agents

Dermatol Ther. 2020 Nov;33(6):e14091. doi: 10.1111/dth.14091. Epub 2020 Aug 24.

Abstract

The quest to be fair is not a concept of the new world. For centuries untold, having a lighter skin tone has been considered as a trait of beauty and supremacy. Society implicates fairness as a factor for getting a prospective life partner. Media portrays fair skin tone as a predecessor for success. These subtle influences affect young minds and drive them towards wanting fair skin. Physicians observe that it is one of the most common forms of body dysmorphic disorder. This article aims to highlight the psychosocial factors that mold this mentality and the possible ill effects it can have on a person, both psychologically as well as physically.

Keywords: OTC; bleaching; fair; skin lightening products.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Prospective Studies
  • Skin
  • Skin Lightening Preparations*
  • Skin Pigmentation

Substances

  • Skin Lightening Preparations