Ghana Ranked Number Three in Africa for Body Bleaching – CNN Report

In a recent in‑depth feature, CNN explored the growing phenomenon of body bleaching across Africa, highlighting the countries where skin‑lightening practices have become a multi‑million‑dollar industry. The report placed Ghana at number three on the continent, after Nigeria and South Africa. The ranking surprised many, but to experts and health professionals who have studied the trend for years, Ghana’s position reflects an ongoing social, economic, and cultural challenge that cannot be ignored.

Body bleaching, sometimes called skin lightening or toning, involves the use of chemical creams, soaps, pills, or even injections to reduce melanin and create a lighter skin tone. CNN’s investigation combined interviews with dermatologists, traders, and ordinary users, along with market data collected in major cities. The resulting list showed how widespread and deeply rooted the practice has become in modern African societies.

Why Skin Lightening Is on the Rise

According to CNN, the reasons people bleach their skin are complex. Many respondents in Ghana told reporters that lighter skin is often associated with beauty, wealth, and opportunity. A young student from Kumasi confessed, “When I look fairer, people treat me better. I feel more confident, and I get more likes on social media.” Such statements reveal the psychological dimensions of the practice, which is not only about beauty but also about perceived social advantages.

In Accra’s bustling Makola Market, CNN’s team filmed rows of shelves filled with creams promising “instant glow,” “extra tone,” and “magic fairness.” Vendors openly admitted that certain products contain strong chemicals like hydroquinone, mercury, and corticosteroids. Though banned or restricted by Ghana’s Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), these items often slip through borders or are rebranded as harmless cosmetics.

Ghana’s Place in the African Context

Nigeria topped CNN’s list as the leading country for skin bleaching in Africa, with a significant percentage of urban women and a growing number of men using such products. South Africa came second, driven by historical and cultural issues around colorism. Ghana’s third place was linked to the rapid growth of its urban youth population, the influence of social media beauty trends, and the aggressive marketing of skin‑lightening brands.

CNN highlighted that in some Ghanaian towns, bleaching is so normalized that women openly share product tips at salons. A 28‑year‑old mother in Cape Coast told CNN, “I started with simple toning, but now I use injections. Everyone in my circle does something to improve their skin.” Experts fear this casual acceptance is creating long‑term public health issues.

The Health Risks Involved

Medical professionals interviewed by CNN painted a worrying picture. Dr. Ama Boakye, a dermatologist at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, warned that continuous use of certain lightening creams can cause skin thinning, kidney damage, high blood pressure, and even cancer. Mercury accumulation in the body, for instance, can affect the nervous system. Yet many users remain unaware or dismiss the warnings.

The World Health Organization has also expressed concern about the prevalence of bleaching creams in Africa. Ghana’s Ministry of Health has partnered with local NGOs to educate the public, but enforcement remains difficult because of the informal nature of the market. Counterfeit and unregulated products flood in from Asia, often without proper labeling.

Cultural and Historical Roots

CNN’s feature didn’t stop at statistics; it explored the cultural roots of colorism. In many African societies, colonial history left a lingering perception that lighter skin signified higher status. Television and film industries have sometimes reinforced these ideals by casting fair‑skinned actors in lead romantic roles. Music videos, too, often feature models with bleached complexions, subtly shaping what audiences perceive as beautiful.

In Ghana, where local culture is vibrant and diverse, these influences mix with traditional beauty practices. Some elders recall a time when herbal toning methods were used before weddings or festivals, though those were far milder than today’s chemical options. The new wave of bleaching is driven more by commerce than tradition, and CNN’s analysts believe it will continue to rise unless stronger regulations and cultural shifts occur.

Economic Drivers Behind the Trend

A striking observation from CNN’s report was the sheer size of the bleaching economy. In Ghana alone, industry insiders estimate that millions of dollars change hands yearly in the sale of lightening products. Street vendors, beauty shops, and online stores all stock them. Some salons even offer “skin toning packages” complete with weekly treatments and counseling.

The desire for lighter skin has also created opportunities for counterfeit goods. CNN documented how fake high‑end creams, often containing dangerous levels of chemicals, are imported and sold cheaply. For many Ghanaians who cannot afford genuine skincare products, these cheap alternatives become the only option, despite their risks.

Government and Community Responses

The Ghanaian government has not been silent. The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) periodically publishes lists of banned bleaching products and raids markets to confiscate illegal goods. Public health campaigns on radio and television urge Ghanaians to embrace their natural complexion. One memorable slogan, featured in the CNN piece, reads: “Your skin is beautiful. Don’t bleach it away.”

Community groups are also stepping in. Youth organizations host workshops in schools to teach about self‑esteem and body positivity. Some local celebrities have started campaigns celebrating dark skin. Popular actress Yvonne Okoro told CNN, “We need to remind our girls that beauty is not about shade but about confidence and health.”

Men Joining the Trend

Interestingly, CNN noted a rise in male bleaching in Ghana. Though traditionally seen as a female habit, more men are experimenting with toning creams to appear youthful or fashionable. Barbershops now stock lightening products alongside hair gels. A 24‑year‑old musician in Accra explained, “In the entertainment industry, appearance matters. A lighter look makes you stand out on camera.” This trend further fuels demand and complicates efforts to curb the practice.

A Call for a New Beauty Narrative

CNN’s report ends on a hopeful note, urging African nations to redefine beauty standards. In Ghana, photographers and fashion designers are slowly championing natural skin tones. Social media movements like #MelaninPride and #DarkIsBeautiful are gaining traction, encouraging people to love the skin they are in. Still, changing deep‑rooted preferences will take time.

Experts suggest that education is key. By teaching young people about the risks of bleaching and the value of natural skin, the next generation might embrace healthier habits. Schools, churches, and media outlets all have a role to play.

Conclusion

Ghana’s ranking as number three in Africa for body bleaching, as highlighted by CNN, is both a wake‑up call and an opportunity. It reflects not only individual choices but also broader societal pressures, economic factors, and cultural histories. While the allure of lighter skin remains strong, the health consequences are too serious to ignore.

As awareness grows and communities rally around natural beauty, there is hope that Ghana can move away from dangerous bleaching practices. CNN’s investigation has sparked conversations across the nation, with many now asking: Can we redefine beauty in a way that celebrates every shade?

For now, the market continues to thrive, but so do the voices advocating for change. Ghana’s story is not just about creams and chemicals; it is about identity, confidence, and the power to reshape cultural ideals for a healthier future.