Expression of Self Hate? Vybz Kartel Launches Skin Bleaching Line - Origin Culture

In our April-March 2011 Origin Magazine issue we addressed the issue of skin bleaching in the Africa and the detrimental affects it can have. Keeping this article in mind, it comes as a surprise that international reggae superstar Vybz Kartel has announced the launching of his new skin care line of products called ‘OH.’ The self proclaimed “the cake soap king’s” line include Vybz Skin Brightener, Vybz Body Brightener, Vybz Anti-Aging Moisturiser, Vybz Astringent, Vybz Soap and OH! – a men’s cologne and women’s perfume.

While it might be hard for many of us to believe, Vybz Kartel indicated that his launching of this new line has been propelled by his success with using ‘cake soap’ – a skin brightening soap that is commonly used by many non-Europeans of darker complexions, seeking to lighten their skin tone.

While many have long expressed outrage about Vybz Kartel’s extreme appearance from his usage of ‘cake soap,’ his launching of this new line indicates that there is a market out there for the consumption of these products.

The beauty of this world for many of us is having autonomy over ourselves and our bodies. Nokho, while not often visible, many of the decision we make are controlled by stronger forces not visible to us. Many of us have been conditioned to hate ourselves and appearances and are often informed both directly and indirectly that we are not beautiful. While you are free to do with your body as you choose, it is also important that we love ourselves – including those characteristics that make us who we are – such as our race, sex and culture.