In parts of India and Africa, women lighten their skin with harsh chemicals. Bleaching dates back to the days of colonialism, when prostitutes lightened their skin to attract whites. Over time, fair skin became synonymous with beauty.

But, as Michelle Betz reports from Uganda, bleaching comes at a heavy cost. Cremes with steroids can lead to thinning skin, ulcers, and infections. Doctors say it can even kill you.

Encore presentation from August 24, 2008.

Music for this show ...