One of South Africa's top beauty influencers, Mihlali Ndamase. Picture: X/@TalkLessers
Mihlali Ndamase, one of South Africa's top beauty influencers, is no stranger to the spotlight or controversy. Recently, a make-up-free video of her surfaced online, leaving social media in a frenzy.
The clip, shared by gossip blogger Musa Khawula on X , showed Ndamase with a noticeably lighter complexion than her usual chocolate-brown tone.
Social media users were quick to jump to conclusions, with many claiming Ndamase had lightened her skin.
While the influencer has not addressed the accusations directly, the debate has reignited broader conversations about beauty standards and skin-lightening practices in South Africa.
Ndamase isn’t the first South African celebrity to face such claims. Khanyi Mbau has been open about using skin-lightening products, saying it’s a personal choice driven by her beauty preferences.
However, others like Kelly Khumalo, Bonang Matheba, Ayanda Ncwane and DJ Zinhle have also been accused of bleaching, though most deny altering their skin tone.
Often, these claims are based on side-by-side comparisons of older and more recent images, leading to heated debates but little conclusive evidence.
Internationally, stars like Nicki Minaj and Serena Williams have faced similar scrutiny. Williams, for instance, has vehemently denied bleaching allegations, pointing out how lighting and make-up can significantly alter appearances.
Despite the lack of confirmation in many cases, these accusations often reveal deeper societal issues about colourism and beauty expectations in the entertainment industry.
Khawula’s caption read: “Mihlali Ndamase shows off her face without make-up.” The post immediately sparked conversation around skin bleaching.
Mihlali Ndamase shows off her face without make up. pic.twitter.com/c9oVQGD7Kq
— Musa Khawula (@Musa_Khawula) December 8, 2024
@afroghanga commented: “Skin bleaching obvious. Khanyi part 2.”
@SelepeSaLetsema commented: “Skin lightening creams are dangerous.”
@annah_manaka also commented: “I like her but i see bleach more than beauty😭😭😭.”
I like her but i see bleach more than beauty😭😭😭
— Lucia Smith 🇿🇦 (@annah_manaka) December 8, 2024
@shaz___m wrote, “She’ll buy a new face soon like Khanyi 🤞.”
@AmoNtombi also wrote, “She's turning pink 🫢.”
“Lip fillers botox, too much glutathione (skin lightening), mini tummy tuck, the price of beauty,“ @ToolipsT wrote.
Lip fillers botox, too much glutathione (skin lightening), mini tummy tuck, the price of beauty
— A Queen (@ToolipsT) December 8, 2024