JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

The use of skin-lightening agents remains popular among South Asians living in the United States (US) despite known possible adverse effects.

Objective:

To investigate attitudes towards skin tone and the prevalence, motivations, and adverse effects of skin-lightening agent use among people of South Asian ethnicity living in the US.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study recruited and surveyed 175 individuals who identified as South Asian women or nonbinary individuals.

Results:

Of the 175 participants, 31% of respondents had used a skin-lightening agent. Parental pressure to use skin-lightening agents and a shorter duration of living in the US were significantly associated with skin-lightening product use (OR 8.51, 95% CI 3.33-21.78 and OR 0.70, 95% CI 0.52-0.96, respectively). Although only 11% of participants reported being aware of the potential side effects of skin-lightening products before use, 60% of users reported adverse effects from product use, with acne (16%), skin sensitivity (27%), and dry skin (35%) being the most common. Users and non-users equally endorsed statements that associated lighter skin with increased attractiveness, marriageability, social status, self-esteem, and respect received from others.

Conclusions:

The use of skin-lightening products among South Asians living in the US is common and linked to social and psychological factors. Parental pressure and cultural beauty standards may play a significant role in perpetuating this practice. The study highlights the need for educational campaigns about the potential health risks associated with skin-lightening agent use and increased efforts to challenge harmful beauty standards and promote diversity and inclusivity.