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African Health Sciences
Makerere University Medical School
ISSN: 1680-6905 EISSN: 1680-6905
Vol. 15, No. 4, 2015, pp. 1074-1080
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Bioline Code: hs15150
Full paper language: English
Document type: Research Article
Document available free of charge
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African Health Sciences, Vol. 15, No. 4, 2015, pp. 1074-1080
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"The fairer the better?" Use of potentially toxic skin bleaching products.
Darj, Elisabeth; Infanti, Jennifer J.; Ahlberg, Beth Maina & Okumu, Jecinta
Abstract
Background: Skin bleaching is a widespread phenomenon in spite of their potentially toxic health effects.
Objectives: This study aimed to determine if such products are used in Sweden in particular by pregnant women, furthermore
to explore immigrant women’s view skin bleaching.
Methods: 455 pregnant women completed a questionnaire, which were statistically analysed. Focus groups and individual
interviews were conducted with immigrant women, content analysis was used to assess the data.
Results: Skin bleaching products were used by 2.6% of pregnant women, significantlly more by women born in non-European
countries. Motivating factors were associated with the concept of beauty together with social and economic advantages.
The women had low awareness of the potential health risks of the products. Regulations on the trade of skin bleaching
products have not effectively reduced the availability of the products in Sweden nor the popularity of skin bleaching.
Conclusion: There is need for further research especially among pregnant women and possible effects on newborns. Products
should be tested for toxicity. Public health information should be developed and health care providers educated and
aware of this practice, due to their potential negative health implications.
Keywords
Skin bleaching; harmful practice; pregnancy
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