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The Domination of Fair Skin: Skin Whitening, Indian Women and Public Health San Francisco State University Department of Health Education Culminating Experience May 14, 2007 Savita Malik, MPH (c)

Picture Citation: www.english.people.com.cn/200505/12/images/c3.jpg modified by Ezekiel Robles in Photoshop; Fair and Lovely containers

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Table of Contents Abstract Introduction Purpose of Study Methods Literature Review Indian Historical Context The Impact of Colonialism on Women Internalized Racism, Classism and the Link to Colonialism Whiteness and “Colorism” as a Theoretical Framework Findings The Media Ideal of Beauty The Beauty Industry and the Economic Viability of “Fairness Creams” The Physical, Emotional and Mental Health Aspects of Skin Lightening Solutions Author Reflections References Appendices 3 4 5 5 7 7 9 10 13 14 14 16 17 20 22 24 27

Picture Citation: Researcher’s hand modified in Photoshop by Ezekiel Robles

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Abstract

Skin whitening creams do big business among women of Indian decent and have serious mental, physical and emotional health implications for those who use these products. Whiteness theory and the color complex leading to studies of “colorism” provide a theoretical backdrop by which to understand some of the root causes of the desire for fair skin. Study methodology includes media analysis, a literature review with an examination of historical context and interviews with key informants. The purpose of this study is three fold. First, the aim is to show the impact of whiteness on Indian women who use skin lightening techniques. Second, this study examines the negative impact of such techniques both mentally and physically constituting a large public health issue within this population. Finally, this study explores ways of mitigating the negative impact that...