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The language surrounding skin fairness in India may be changing, but the desire for lighter skin has not necessarily disappeared. What was once openly marketed as ‘fairness’ is increasingly being repackaged through skincare, dermatological treatments and digital platforms.

Fairness creams that once dominated advertisements are less prominent today. Yet the underlying preference for lighter-looking skin can continue through newer terms and beauty trends.

From fairness to ‘brightening’ and ‘glow’

The skincare industry has increasingly adopted softer language. Terms such as ‘brightening’, ‘glow’, ‘de-tan’ and ‘even tone’ are now widely used to describe products and treatments.

While these terms can refer to legitimate skincare goals, their growing popularity also raises questions about whether older colour-based beauty ideals are simply being presented in a more acceptable form.

The conversation is moving beyond creams

Skin-lightening practices are no longer limited to products marketed specifically as fairness creams. They can now intersect with skincare routines, dermatological procedures and digital beauty culture.

This shift can make the health risks associated with skin-lightening practices harder for consumers to recognise. As products and procedures become more sophisticated and the terminology becomes less direct, distinguishing between ordinary skincare and attempts to alter natural skin colour can also become more difficult.

A changing industry, an old beauty ideal

The changing vocabulary around skin tone reflects a broader transformation in the beauty industry. However, changing the words used in advertisements does not necessarily mean that the social preference behind them has disappeared.

The continuing popularity of terms promising brighter, more even or glowing skin highlights the need for greater awareness about how beauty standards influence skincare choices.

As skin-lightening practices increasingly move into professional treatments and digital spaces, conversations around safety, informed choices and the social pressures surrounding skin colour remain important.