In other climes, some cosmetic creams are not sold over the counter. In the UK, the NHS, in a recent publication, noted that skin products that contain hydroquinone and topical steroids such as hydrocortisone must only be bought with a doctor’s prescription.
Walk in Dermatology, an online health journal, noted that worldwide, the market for skin lighteners in 2020 was estimated at $8.6billion, and is projected to hit $12.3billion in the next five years. Skin bleaching is now so popular that on a global level, skin-lightening products now represent half of the cosmetic industry, reported the United States-based NPR.
Although the research is inconclusive, some scientists suggest that hydroquinone and mercury react with ultraviolet rays, and this only triggers more pigmentation – as well as premature skin ageing. Sociologists have said some deep-seated cultural notions of what constitutes beautiful skin are often the driving force behind the demand for bleaching products. Sensitisation messages should seek to address this.