The first time my own hyperpigmentation was pointed out was around the time I was entering puberty.
And for a time, I believed her.
I actively avoided scrubbing any parts of my body so I didn’t even have to look at them.
Niege Borges
My body disgusted me.
No wonder I eventually developed an eating disorder.
Its the same societal structure thatenforced fatness (bad) as being Blackand thinness (good) as white.
While that can be true, it’s not the most common cause for hyperpigmentation.
“Health is really coupled with fatness, and fat people are just assumed to be diseased.”
This can even be true among trained medical professionals.
In fact, fat people areless likely to receive bias-free and evidence-based health care.
Anecdotally, having skin hyperpigmentation can exacerbate negative experiences fat patients are already having in the doctor’s office.
“I shouldnt be demonized or face ableism because I have hyperpigmentation.
Im not implying that hyperpigmentation is never linked to a medical condition.
While writing this, I could not help but feel called out.
I would be lying if I said I have never looked up ways to reduce my skin hyperpigmentation.
So many of us struggle alone with body image insecurities that are tied to historical oppression and racism.
So much violence exists in the process of both dehumanizing and normalizing dark skin.
Coming to terms with our bodies is a multifaceted process.
So how do we start normalizing skin diversity?
Changing the way we talk about hyperpigmentation would be a good first step.
“Why does it need to be called ‘discoloration’ or hyperpigmentation?”
“Why can’t it just be called ‘pigmentation?’
Who gets to say what is too much?”
We have to shift our orientation to be more inclusive and understanding of the realities of our bodies.”
We can tackle this as individuals as well.
Do we have friends and lovers with skin hyperpigmentation?
If not, why?
It’s not only about learning to love yourself but learning to love the liberation of others.
It means supporting social justice efforts that go beyond body image.
Just like stretch marks and cellulite are making their way into media acceptance, hyperpigmentation can be next.
The standards of desirability and perfectionism have derailed so many of us.
