There is an alarming rise in skin bleaching amongst Nigerians today. According to WHO, an estimated 77% of Nigerian women use skin lightening products. This figure which is reputed to be the world's highest percentage.
Recently in Nigeria, a fairer skin is now the " in thing" mostly amongst Nigerian ladies. Although the men are not left out. It is so alarming because there is basically no age restrictions on bleaching amongst Nigerians. Some Nigerian women go to the extent of bleaching their babies and toddlers not minding the adverse effect it can cause on the long run. There is also the abuse of bleaching agents which could cause an immediate damage to their skin. Some damages could be permanent some temporary and can be fixed.
This public opinion pool is focused on men and women generally. Respondents where asked bleaching is on the rise amongst Nigerians.
A respondent Mrs Anita stated that many Nigerian women consider light skin to be more beautiful, a high percentage of Nigerian men are more attracted to light skinned women . That even in beauty pageant, light skinned women are majorly selected to compete and usually crowned as the winner.
Mrs Ayo another respondents stated that there are a few reasons why women bleach. Firstly its due to lack of self confidence, Some just want to look more attractive while some are just following trends.
Mr Zion an OAP is of the notion that people bleach because of lack of self esteem.
A respondent Miss Anna believes that fair attracts, that people bleach their skin because they want to look more attractive.
Another respondent Mr Chris stated that a fairer skin especially in Nigeria that is categorized with a lot of dark skin is unique and more attractive. So some persons bleach their skin in other to feel unique.
Miss Faith is also of the notion that Nigeria ladies in particular bleach their skin because it makes them feel beautiful and more attractive especially to the men. They feel most men are usually attracted to fair skinned ladies.
Mrs Ray stated that people bleach their skin because low self esteem, some uneven skin tone others because of hyper pigmentation which is a medical condition.
Mr Moses believe that those persons who bleach suffers from inferiority complex and low self esteem. That beauty is more that skin color or shade.
A major problem that is synonymous with the increased rate in bleaching amongst Nigerians, is the indiscriminate use of the users and seller of the products. Even some so called organic products are still been chemicalized for market purposes without any mention of its adverse effect to gullible users of such product.
There is little or no awareness of the adverse effect of skin bleaching in Nigeria today. From the educated to the least educated are not well informed about the side effects on the long run. The few that are aware are willing to pay the price just to feel beautiful. What's your take on this?
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