2021/10/12 by Mary Sommerlad · 1 citation
Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology · Medicine · #melanin and skin pigmentation #Skin Protection and Aging #Acne and Rosacea Treatments and Effects
paper · doi:10.1111/ced.14972
openalex publication_date 2021/10/12 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/23
Skin bleaching, also known as skin lightening, is the deliberate lightening of an individual's skin tone without medical supervision. The causes are complex, multifactorial and often intertwined, although the unifying themes centre around a belief that lighter skin denotes an individual of higher status, socioeconomic background or physical beauty, than their darker-skinned counterpart. Skin lightening is achieved using agents that block the production of melanin and often contain drugs such as hydroquinone, superpotent topical steroids or mercury. These drugs can cause serious local and systemic complication. Skin-lightening compounds are illegal in most countries throughout the world; however the industry is worth billions of dollars annually, and the agents can be easily obtained by individuals seeking to lighten their skin. Dermatologists are in a unique position to identify those at risk of using skin-bleaching agents, manage complications and give advice on the physiological variation in pigmentation and how to avoid using skin-lightening agents to treat dermatological conditions. To manage the belief that lighter skin is better, societal level change is required to ensure that people of all skin tones are represented in the media.