Skin-lightening which entails the use of products, treatments, or practices with the aim of lightening or whitening the skin tone, has a long history in Africa, with a significant percentage of women engaging in the use of skin-lightening products.
According to the World Health Organization’s 2011 statistics, 40% of African women use skin-lightening products.
In some countries, the prevalence is even higher, such as 77% in Nigeria, 59% in Togo, 35% in South Africa, 27% in Senegal, and 25% in Mali.
A new trend in skin lightening involves the intravenous application of glutathione, a natural antioxidant produced by the liver, according to the United Nations. This method is gaining popularity, although the United Nations warns about its potential risks.
The World Health Organization highlights that skin bleaching can lead to liver and kidney damage, psychosis, brain damage in fetuses, and an increased risk of cancer.