In 2015, the Ivory Coast became the third African country to ban skin-whitening creams, following in the footsteps of Senegal and South Africa.
But, despite the ban, some dangerous, and even deadly, skin-lightening agents are still managing to filter into the UK.
Last year, according to ONS predictions, the island of Mauritius was expected to overtake Nigeria as the biggest exporter of skin-bleaching creams.
Ashna Hurynag went to Mauritius to find out more.
Get involved with gal-dem’s skin lightening series. Comment, tweet us at @galdemzine using the hashtag #skinlighteningseries, or email info@gal-dem.com if you would like to share your experience.
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Weekly Race Review: Monday 19 March
