Christians warned against skin bleaching
Skin whitening, which involves using cosmetic products to lighten the skin by reducing melanin, has become a widespread practice, particularly among women.
Zombo: Ven. Alfred Ogenmungu, the Archdeacon of Ukuru Archdeaconry in Nebbi Diocese, Church of Uganda, has urged believers to avoid skin bleaching and instead focus on purifying their hearts and living a Godly life.
Speaking with passion at the burial of the late Nassan Thomwa in Zombo District, Ven. Ogenmungu told hundreds of mourners that “beauty fades with age” and warned that those overly focused on their outward appearance would be unhappy as they age.
He reminded the congregation of the wisdom found in the book of Ecclesiastes, which states that “for everything there is a season” (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8), encouraging believers to accept the natural course of life.
Skin whitening, which involves using cosmetic products to lighten the skin by reducing melanin, has become a widespread practice, particularly among women.
Ven. Ogenmungu expressed concern over how older individuals, in particular, are trying to maintain youthful appearances, including avoiding grey hair and dressing in styles meant for younger people.
He called on the faithful to allow nature to take its course and accept the aging process with dignity.
The practice of skin lightening is not new and has been linked to social perceptions of beauty, as well as improved prospects in employment, marriage, and social standing.
In Paidha Town, residents such as Esperance and Jampiere Okello shared their personal experiences of starting skin bleaching after being influenced by peers or exposure to widespread use of such products in regions like DR Congo.
The skin-bleaching industry is thriving, particularly targeting women of color. A local cosmetics dealer in Paidha reported that many women, especially those aged 20-40, are frequent customers. Increasingly, men are also joining the trend, a shift that has been observed even in smaller towns.
Religious leaders in the area are calling for a shift in focus, urging people to learn God’s perspective on beauty, which emphasizes inner purity over external appearance.
As one religious leader pointed out, communities often send mixed messages about beauty, making it crucial to promote biblical teachings on the matter.
The demand for skin-lightening substances, such as glutathione, is especially high in African countries. A 2011 World Health Organization (WHO) study found that 40% of African women bleach their skin, with Nigeria, Togo, and South Africa leading the trend.
In some cases, pregnant women are reportedly using these products, including harmful substances, to lighten the skin of their unborn children.
The health risks associated with skin-bleaching products are significant. Long-term use of certain products, especially those containing mercury, can cause visible skin damage, including acne, visible capillaries, and other health issues.
A local resident, Awacango, recounted how she suffered from these side effects after using bleaching creams for several years before seeking medical help. Health experts warn that exposure to mercurial agents can lead to severe health complications, and WHO calls for stricter regulations on the import, export, and manufacture of such products to protect public health.
In light of these dangers, the WHO recommends increased public awareness, regulatory actions by governments, and campaigns to discourage the use of harmful skin-lightening products.
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