Brown You Nah Get Brown! Or Can You?

Happy New Year fashionistas, let’s bring it for 2011.   I am beginning this year with the controversial subject of “bleaching”.

During the festive season the “hot topic” was ‘skin bleaching‘… to paraphrase the old Head and Shoulders dandruff shampoo commercial the question on our lips was “is she or isn’t she?” or more often than I would like to admit “is he or isn’t he?”

Is it a fashion fad that wont die? Or is it about the enslavement of the mind? Is it part of dancehall culture? Or is it – you fill in the blanks —???? The list goes on….

I’m pleased  that  Jamaica’s Ministry of Health has declared war on this saddening and skin destroying phenomenon, that seems to affect both genders, all ages across many nations. I am assuming that we all recognise that this activity is widespread across Africa and the Caribbean but did you know this practice is prevalent in India, Korea and China?

I have spoken with a few brave souls recently, who admitted to ‘bleaching’.   They cite career progression, emulating their idols (such as Kartel), and just feeling more confident, handsome and beautiful as reasons behind why they do it.

You tell me fashionistas are the reasons given rational? Is this what people have to do to progress or feel beautiful in the world today?

Anyone that has visited Jamaica is aware of the impact that dancehall culture has on Jamaican society.  I find it very disappointing to hear dancehall artistes such as ‘Kartel’ singing about skin bleaching.  But, now I understand he is launching his own brand/line of skin lightening products it makes sense.

I can only hope more artistes come out with an opposing view. Kudos to Kiprich’s whose song ‘Caan get Brown’ raises some interesting questions about the practice.  I have linked it below for your enjoyment.

How are we going to address this growing multi billion dollar industry?

Yes, education is key, but we also need stricter regulations and tighter enforcement on the sale of bleaching agents which are proven to be detrimental to our health. Don’t ask me what to do about “cake soap” – since it is laundry soap!  Any suggestions?

Naturally, there is a place for skin bleaching.  For example, when dealing with hyper-pigmentation or other medical conditions.  This should be an option.  However, in my opinion bleaching should always be undertaken with medical supervision.

What are your thoughts on this fashionistas?  Have I got it right or am I wrong?

Lets get the discussion going… I’ve posed a lot of questions…and I’ve got a lot more to say!

Talk soon

Shaz