A study presented at the Annual Meeting of American Academy of Dermatology advises Clinicians to be mindful of pigmentary concerns and colorism in their patients with skin of color and identify the reasons behind their skin-lightening desires.

Roopal V Kundu and Jacob R Suker, Professors of Medical Education and Founder and Director of Skin and Hair at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, stated that "Skin bleaching and lightening is a globally flourishing industry. Colorism can generate a desire for skin-lightening and utilizing lightening agents among people who often do not know the products ingredients or dont consult a medical provider to guide their use."  

Researchers sent an anonymous 19-question survey to patients with skin of color, asking for information on demographics, colorism attitudes, skin tone satisfaction and skin-lightening habits. Among 455 people who finished the survey, 238 were Black, 83 were Asian, 84 were multiracial, 31 were Hispanic, 14 were American Indian or Alaskan Native and 5 identified as other.

21.3% of respondents reported using skin-lightening agents, with 75.3% using them to treat skin conditions such as acne, melasma or hyperpigmentation.

Among those who used skin-lightening products, 45.4% documented no knowledge about the active ingredient in the product, and 35.1% reported using hydroquinone-based products. According to the authors, these products are often purchased over the counter and could pose a health risk, especially for those ignorant about the ingredients.

Patients who reported using skin-lightening agents also had higher skin tone dissatisfaction and higher average composite colorism scores.

Hence, clinicians must show cultural awareness as they address skin tone and pigmentary concerns, especially among (skin of color) patients. There are historical and sociocultural reasons for skin-lightening, and recognizing these patients choices and opinions can lead to stronger patient-clinical relationships and improved care.

Source: Colorism can lead to dangerous skin lightening product use. March 16, 2023. Available from: https://www.healio.com/news/dermatology/20230316/colorism-can-lead-to-dangerous-skin-lightening-product-use