Doctors are raising concerns about a rise in cancers and permanent skin damage connected to the use of skin-bleaching creams. This issue is fueled by colorism, a legacy of colonial beauty standards that favor lighter skin tones. The problem spans continents, from Africa to Asia, where these ideals persist despite movements promoting natural beauty. The historical context includes the 'black is beautiful' movement, which emerged during the civil rights era to challenge racist standards that denigrated darker skin and features. This movement's message resonated globally, countering the colonial belief in the superiority of lighter complexions.