Fair and thin is beautiful is a fad that has developed since 1920s in the western world and since 1990s in India. Revealing dresses and promotion by fashion industry and by commercial advertising have boosted this fad.

One could benevolently smile at the use of fairness creams and weight loss supplements and fad diets were these not so harmful to people’s health.

Fairness creams may make the skin fairer by a maximum of 20%. But excessive use of these creams can severely damage the skin and increase the risk of skin cancer.

A healthy, glowing, skin is beautiful whether it is white or tan or dark. To get such a skin, wash skin with clean water at least three times a day, use moisturiser and sun screen lotion, drink 6-8 glasses of liquids every day, eat anti-oxidant rich fruits, and exfoliate weekly.

Fit not thin should be the mantra to follow. Body Mass Index (BMI) is a good measure of overweight but not of percentage of fat in the body and its distribution over body parts. Balanced diet and exercise can ensure that you remain fit and within the ideal BMI range. Avoid fad diets. These are risky.

Cherish yourself as you are, what you are. No matter what shape or size you are, feel like a beautiful woman.

Continue reading HARMFUL: FAIRNESS CREAMS & DIET PILLS