Senegal's Fashion Victims

In richer countries people are increasingly comfortable, and successful, regardless of their natural...

In richer countries people are increasingly comfortable, and successful, regardless of their natural skin color, but in many African countries like Senegal, trying to change one's skin color is still seen as a way to get ahead. "Some Senegalese women," Emilie, a student at Dakar University, told ABC News, "are trying to look like the white girls they see on television."

(Ben Barnier ABC News)

Dangers of Skin Bleaching

Even more worrying is the widespread habit of bleaching one's skin during pregnancy, according to Ly, who says it is fashionable for women to look fairer at the baby's presentation party.

During pregnancy, the woman's skin is even more vulnerable and there are worries that the corticoids contained in some creams may increase the risks of diabetes for the baby.

According to Ly, some cosmetic companies act irresponsibly. They don't always clearly indicate on the tube that it contains dangerous chemicals, she said.

Sadly, many women who realize that these creams are harmful find it difficult to kick the habit.

"As soon as they stop," said Ly, "their tone becomes darker, and people around them assume they have a problem. So they resume. It's a vicious circle, an addiction."

Additional reporting by Gallagher Fenwick and Idrissa Sane.