In a world where beauty standards are often defined by social media trends and celebrity endorsements, the colour of your skin can sometimes feel like a determinant of self-esteem and confidence. While some pursue lighter skin tones through bleaching, others seek a darker complexion via tanning – both ends of the spectrum can come with health risks that need to be considered. Dr Dilshaad Asmal, Dermatologist at Mediclinic Cape Town, chats to Leigh-Anne Williams about the most common bleaching practices, the risks behind the glow and safe approaches to skincare.