MOGADISHU (Kaab TV) – In recent years, the trend of Somali women using skin-bleaching products and whitening chemicals has been on the rise, transforming what may have started as a cosmetic preference into a widespread social and public health issue.
Doctors have raised alarms about the potential dangers, including skin diseases, caused by these unregulated products.
Specialized beauty shops and informal centers across Somalia sell these whitening products, with no oversight or regulation.
The harmful effects of these chemicals, as well as the health risks they pose to consumers, remain largely unknown to the public.
Additionally, there is little to no accountability for those who import or sell these products, leaving many women vulnerable to severe health risks.
Here in Mogadishu, local shops, a variety of drugs and creams used to bleach the skin are readily available, including hydroquinone, retinoids, and steroids—none of which require a doctor’s prescription.
They are also cheaper in terms of prices.
While these products promise quick results, many of them are toxic and can cause serious health problems, ranging from skin thinning and discoloration to life-threatening conditions such as skin cancer.
Lacking confidence in their natural skin tone
The majority of buyers are young Somali women, many of whom lack confidence in their natural skin tone and feel societal pressure to achieve a lighter complexion.
This desire for fairness has become especially prevalent among women preparing for marriage, as they often turn to these products in the weeks leading up to their weddings.
During my visit to the beauty shops like Dermaan Beauty Shop in Mogadishu city centre, I observed young women purchasing these products.
Some were first-time buyers, while others were regular customers who restocked monthly. When asked about their motivations for skin bleaching and whether it related to marriage, most women avoided admitting any direct link.
Aisha Abukar, a seller of imported cosmetic products, explained her perspective on the demand for these chemicals.
“We sell various products that help women regain their beauty, particularly those preparing for marriage,” she told Kaab TV.
Aisha defended her business, stating that maintaining beauty with glowing skin is a normal aspiration for young women, and she dismissed any connection between skin bleaching and attracting potential husbands.
Similarly, 21-year-old Hawo Mohamed, a frequent user of whitening chemicals, shared her perspective.
“I use these products to keep myself looking beautiful, but I do it for me—not for the sake of a man,” she told Kaab TV.
However, the trend is not without controversy.
While some women pursue lighter skin tones, many young men in Somalia are now expressing a preference for natural beauty and darker, unaltered skin.
Financial concerns also play a role, as maintaining the use of skin-whitening products can be costly.
Hassan Mohamed Shafi, a 26-year-old man, stated that he stopped dating women who bleach their skin after being unable to afford the expenses for his ex-girlfriend.
“I don’t date women who use these products. It’s a financial burden. She always asks for money which I can not afford,” he said.
Guled Abdullahi Mohamed echoed this sentiment, urging women to embrace their natural beauty.
“Women shouldn’t rely on bleaching to feel beautiful. Their natural color is already a gift from God,” he added.
Yet, the societal dynamics remain complex.
Sahro, a young woman, admitted that some women rely on financial support from their partners during dating to afford these products.
Substandard and harmful substances
“All women use these chemicals. It’s normal. Men who want a beautiful woman should pay for it. Intelligent men understand this need,” Sahro remarked.
From a medical perspective, the risks are undeniable.
Nurse Fatuma Ismail highlighted the dangers of using unauthorized skin-whitening products, warning of severe health consequences, including skin diseases and even cancer.
“A lot of these chemicals are substandard and not intended for skin whitening. The risks are high,” Fatuma said. She urged young women to stop using these harmful substances and embrace their natural skin.
Fatuma also highlights the broader consequences of skin bleaching, noting that it can lead to family conflicts and serious health issues.
“Apart from causing family breakups, I know some of my friends who have gone through severe skin problems because of the bleach they applied,” she explains.