Beauty, they say, is in the eye of the beholder. But, to go a step further, to the beholder, beauty always lies in the flawless skin that appears out of nowhere. It is like a miracle. And in this world of imperfections and flaws, we do everything possible to get our hands on that elusive quality called fairness.
Skin fairness is a cultural ideal that prioritizes lighter skin tones and associates them with beauty, desirability, and superiority. This concept is deeply rooted in history. More delicate skin was often seen as a sign of high social status and wealth, particularly in colonial societies where lighter skin was associated with being of European descent and having access to wealth and privilege. Despite its harmful and discriminatory nature, skin fairness is still widely promoted and perpetuated by the media, beauty industry, and even personal beliefs in many cultures worldwide.
Skin tones in humans range from dark to light brown. Our genetic composition and exposure to the sun determine our skin tones. Therefore, it is challenging to alter your natural skin tone. However, Tan, dark spots, and post-acne pigmentation can be treated medically using safe and efficient skin-lightening remedies. These modern cosmetic procedures can enhance your skin’s health and restore its natural radiance. More fallacies about popular fairness solutions are debunked in this post!
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Myths about skin fairness
Myths about skin fairness are a dangerous way of thinking that often makes women and men blame themselves for their lack of skin color. It starts at home, with your friends and family, and with the media surrounding you all day. Unfortunately, the message is always the same: Darker is ugly, and lighter is better. Here are a few myths we have tried to dispel.
Myth 1 – Fairness creams can make you fair
Fact: Fairness creams have no benefit to your skin. They are a way of making money by exploiting people’s insecurities about their complexion. Most Fairness creams available might contain toxic ingredients that can have adverse side effects on overall health(1).
Myth 2 – Drinking milk makes you fair
It is a fact that milk contains Vitamin D, which helps get rid of dark spots and brightens your skin. But drinking milk does not make you fairer. It will only improve your overall health, but not your skin colour.
Myth 3 – Eating papaya makes your skin fair
Eating papaya does not make your skin fairer. It contains vitamins C and A that help exfoliate the dead skin cells from the surface, making the skin brighter and smoother. But, it cannot lighten up your skin tone permanently as it depends on how much sunlight you are exposed to.
Myth 4 – Applying lemon juice makes you fair
Lemon contains vitamin C, which helps eliminate dark spots and brightens your skin. But, applying lemon juice on the face can cause redness and irritation hence avoid doing so if you have a sensitive skin type.
Myth 5 – Spending more time in the sun will make your skin fairer
Spending more time in the sun will not make your skin fairer. It increases your risk of developing wrinkles, age spots, and skin cancer. You need only 10-15 minutes of unprotected exposure to sunlight every day for adequate vitamin D levels. Sunscreens block out ultraviolet (UV) rays that cause aging damage but allow enough UVB rays through so that your body can make vitamin D(2).
Myth 6 – Tanning makes you look healthier and more attractive
A tan is a symptom of skin deterioration rather than excellent health or attractiveness. Tanning can cause skin damage and premature aging and increase the risk of skin cancer(UV light). Skin cancer is a major public health issue, and proper public health education about the ill effects of tanning can only stop this(3).
Facts about skin fairness
Skin tone is a significant marker of social status, educational attainment, and success. It also strongly affects perceptions of beauty, cleanliness, and even intelligence. Further listed below are a few facts about skin fairness:
Fact 1 – Genetics play a role
Yes, genetics are a factor in determining your skin tone. However, it does not imply that you cannot change your skin color.
Fact 2 – Chemical peels and skin-lightening treatments can lighten skin
Chemical peels and skin-lightening treatments can indeed lighten the skin. Chemical peels utilize a chemical solution to remove the outer layer of skin, revealing lighter and smoother skin underneath. Skin lightening treatments may include topical creams, injections, or laser treatments that bring down melanin production in the skin, leading to a lighter skin tone.
However, it’s important to note that these treatments can have potential side effects and may not be suitable for everyone. Therefore, it’s essential to seek the advice of a healthcare professional before undergoing any skin-lightening therapies and to use safe and approved products by regulatory agencies.
Fact 3 – Sun exposure can lead to the darkening of the skin
Sun exposure can lead to the darkening of the skin by increasing melanin production. Melanin is a pigment produced by skin cells that provides a natural defense against harmful UV rays from the sun. When skin is exposed to the sun, melanin production increases to protect the skin from damage, resulting in a darker skin tone. Depending on the sun’s exposure frequency, this darkening can be temporary or permanent.
Fact 4 – Certain medical conditions can indeed affect skin color
- Vitiligo: A condition that causes the loss of skin color in patches.
- Addison’s disease: A hormonal disorder that can cause darkening of the skin.
- Hemochromatosis: A condition where the body absorbs too much iron, leading to a bronze or greyish skin discoloration.
- Liver disease: Can cause yellowing of the skin and eyes, known as jaundice.
- Cyanosis: A condition where the skin turns blue or purple due to a lack of oxygen in the blood.
It’s important to note that changes in skin color can also be a sign of other underlying health problems, and it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional if you experience any unexpected changes in your skin tone.
Fact 5 – Overuse of skin-lightening products can be harmful
Many skin-lightening products contain ingredients like hydroquinone, mercury, and steroids, which can cause skin irritation, damage, and even long-term health problems. Overusing these products can also lead to skin thinning, discoloration, and a higher risk of skin cancer. Additionally, some skin-lightening treatments, such as laser therapy, can cause permanent damage to the skin if not performed by a qualified healthcare professional.
Using skin-lightening products as directed is essential, and consult a healthcare professional before using any new developments. It’s also important to remember that there is no safe or guaranteed way to change one’s skin tone permanently and that everyone should be valued for who they are, regardless of skin color.
Safe and Effective Methods for Achieving Skin Fairness
While there are many ways to achieve skin fairness, it is essential to remember that there is no single solution. Skin color is an interesting trait regulated by genetics and environmental factors, such as exposure to UV light.
- Protecting skin from sun damage: Sun exposure can cause skin damage, darkening, and premature aging. The skin can be protected from UV damage by using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF, donning protective clothes, and finding cover when the sun is fiercest.
- Maintaining a healthy diet: Eating a diet rich in antioxidants and vitamins can help keep the skin healthy and improve its overall appearance.
- Using gentle skincare products: Gentle skincare products free from harmful ingredients can help maintain the skin’s natural balance and improve its appearance.
- Consulting a dermatologist for personalized advice: A dermatologist can provide personalized advice on how to achieve and maintain healthy, glowing skin based on individual skin type, concerns, and medical history.
It’s crucial to remember that every person has different skin, so what works for one person cannot work for another. Therefore, getting medical advice before a new skincare routine is always advisable.
Conclusion
It’s essential to embrace and celebrate one’s natural skin tone. Society’s beauty standards are constantly changing, and what is considered beautiful today may not be considered so in the future. Beauty comes in all shapes and colors, and everyone should be valued for who they are, regardless of skin color.
When achieving skin fairness, seeking safe and effective methods that promote healthy, glowing skin is essential. Some safe and effective methods include protecting the skin from sun damage, maintaining a nutritious diet, using gentle skincare products, and consulting a dermatologist for personalized advice.
At Kolors Healthcare, we believe in promoting healthy, radiant skin and offer safe and effective skin fareness treatments to help our clients achieve their skincare goals. Our experienced dermatologists and skin care professionals are dedicated to providing personalized care and helping our clients achieve their best skin.
Ultimately, it’s crucial to remember that healthy skin is the most attractive skin, and accepting one’s natural skin tone is a positive start.
Myths and Facts about Skin Fairness FAQs
What determines our skin color?
Skin color is determined by the presence or absence of a skin pigment called melanin. Melanin will make your skin darker, and it is present only in people with dark skin. The most critical factor is exposure to UV radiation, but genetics and other factors also play a role.
Can a dark skin tone ever become fair?
The answer is no. But a dark skin tone can be lightened to make a person’s complexion appear more radiant without makeup. As a result, you should anticipate naturally-looking, fairer skin similar to your unexposed skin, such as your chest/abdomen, etc.
Why is “trying to become fair” so controversial?
With skin tones as diverse as we are as a society, the expectation that everyone will be “fair” is unrealistic. Many people, especially those of color, have struggled with attitudes and internalized beliefs about their appearance for generations.
Who is not eligible for the skin whitening treatment?
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Pregnant and breastfeeding women are advised against skin whitening treatments due to potential health risks to the baby.
- Sensitive skin: People with sensitive skin or a history of skin allergies may not be able to use skin whitening treatments.
- Certain medical conditions: Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as vitiligo, eczema, or psoriasis, may not be eligible for skin whitening treatments as they could worsen their condition.
- Use of certain medications: People taking certain medications, such as retinoids or photosensitizing drugs, may not be able to use skin whitening treatments.
- Age: Children and adolescents may not be eligible for skin whitening treatments due to their developing skin and the potential risks associated with certain skin whitening products.
It is essential to consult with a skin specialist or a licensed medical professional before undergoing any skin whitening treatment to determine if it is appropriate and safe for you.
Referances
- Skin Color, Cultural Capital, and Beauty Products: An Investigation of the Use of Skin Fairness Products in Mumbai, India – Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5787082/
- Photoprotection – Outpatient Clinic of Dermatology, Triemli Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17693182/
- CHANGES in SKIN TANNING ATTITUDES Fashion Articles and Advertisements in the Early 20th Century – Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2775759/
