At least 1 in every 3 Zim women bleached: WHO

Rudo Mandiro and Patricia Mashiri

According to a World Health Organisation report based on a 2023 survey, Zimbabwe was ranked 6th in Africa with 31,5% of the women using skin lightening products.

Pushed by celebrities like Madam Boss and Mai TT, the prevalence of skin bleaching among women in Zimbabwe is 31.15% of Zim women, the social, economic and psychological factors behind the trend seem to put the medical risks into the background.

“In Africa, the prevalence varies significantly, ranging from 25% in Mali to 77% in Nigeria, with other countries reporting intermediate rates: 32% in South Africa, 39% in Ghana, 50% in Senegal and 66% in Congo-Brazzaville.

These statistics highlight the widespread use of skin-lightening products across the continent and show the varying degrees of engagement in skin-bleaching practices in different African regions,” the report says.

A local musician who refused to be named said soft prostitution is the biggest reason why many women are bleaching.

“I can’t risk the social backlash by saying this openly. I don’t want to be called a Shadaya because I don’t hate women. But the truth is that many women are just out to land a man who can look after them. So, because there is a belief that lighter women are more desirable, others bleach hoping to land a mbinga (rich man). Let’s admit it, slay queens are just prostitutes who target permanent clients instead of charging per shot and they are the worst culprits when it comes to bleaching,” the musician said.

While irate pro female positivity agents might want to attack the musician, the WHO report bears out his views.

30.86% of respondents in the survey cited the desire to look beautiful as a motivating factor for skin bleaching, while around 20% reported that bleaching resulted from the search for social benefits, including improved marriage prospects and better job opportunities.

None of the bleached women approached by these reporters agreed to be interviewed with some of them claiming that their complexions are natural despite clear physical evidence.

While most skin bleaching is carried out by women, Zimbabwean men are also into the trend. Notable names include comedian Mama Vee as well as cleric and political fringe player Obediah Musindo.

A man who asked to remain anonymous said sometimes people opt for lightening products because other options would have failed to fix their skin problems such as acne, rashes, fungal infections and uneven skin tone.

"Some people see improvements, such as reduced dark spots or a lighter skin tone. However, results can vary significantly depending on the individual’s skin type, the product used, and how consistently it is applied. It’s important to note that lightening creams may not work for everyone and can take time to show results, “said the man.

His view is backed by stats from the report that say approximately 49.38% of women use skin bleaching to gain smooth and healthy skin.

But are Zimbabweans creating another health disaster such as that experienced in the 1970s when skin lightening resulted users of products like Ambi brand suffering diseases like “Kariba”?

Dr Mwatsveruka Munhutu, a dermatologist confirmed that lightening agents are often used in remedies to clear up skin issues.

“These products often contain ingredients like hydroquinone and corticosteroids, that work by reducing the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin colour. As a result, they can lighten the skin, sometimes making it appear brighter or more even toned.

But he warned that even helpful agents become detrimental when abused through long term use and the perceived benefits will eventually prove too high a cost.

“If you are using these products, follow the instructions carefully and avoid using them for extended periods without medical supervision. Always protect your skin from the sun, as the use of lightening products can make your skin more sensitive to UV damage.

“If you experience any irritation, redness, or other unusual reactions, discontinue use immediately and seek professional advice. It’s also important to remember that healthy, glowing skin comes in all shades, and embracing your natural skin tone is the best way to maintain your skin’s health and beauty,” he said.

Mrs Munashe Choga who sells skin lightening creams at a local shop in Harare said it is important for each individual to understand their own skin and treat it accordingly.

“The use of skin lightening creams can have varying effects on individuals' skin, both positive and negative, depending on the ingredients, frequency of use, and skin type.

"This is mostly based on ingredients and effects as many skins lightening products contain ingredients like hydroquinone, corticosteroids, or mercury. Hydroquinone is a common ingredient for lightening dark spots or hyperpigmentation but can cause side effects like irritation, thinning of the skin, or ochronotic (a bluish-black discoloration of the skin) if used improperly or for prolonged periods,” she said.

She added that steroid-based products may lead to thinning of the skin, acne, and other complications, while mercury can lead to poisoning and other severe health issues.

Other experts warned against believing the claim of “natural and harmless products”. Glutathione was specifically mentioned as it always touted as a natural lightening agent with zero side effects and harm risk.

Tinashe Ngandu from Tynwald South Harare who used to sell some glutathione-based skin lightening products confirmed that indeed there can be some negative effects:

"Continuous or improper use of some lightening creams, especially those with harmful chemicals, can lead to long-term damage. These include skin thinning, increased susceptibility to sunburn, or even systemic toxicity in the case of mercury exposure. Dermatologists often caution against using products without professional guidance, especially when they contain potentially dangerous ingredients.

He said that he rode on the “lighter is better” social values to convince potential clients to come on board.

"In many societies, lighter skin is often perceived as more desirable, which has fuelled the demand for such products and terms like “yellow drive these perceptions home in our own society.

Ngandu says he only stopped distributing lightening products when his profits dwindled due to competition as cheaper products became more readily available.

He said once they start bleaching, many women become addicted and usually don’t stop even when they can see negative effects emerging.