This essay examines how racism, colonialism, and gender inequality shape harmful beauty standards that pressure women of color to use skin-whitening products. It argues that the demand for these products is not a matter of personal preference but the result of internalized oppression reinforced by media, advertising, and capitalist exploitation. Drawing on feminist and critical race scholarship, the paper traces the colonial history of associating light skin with power and success, showing how these ideals persist globally. The author calls for education, media reform, and collective empowerment to dismantle colorist beauty norms and promote acceptance of diverse skin tones.
