MUSIC producer DJ Lux said he is extremely concerned with the high level of skin bleaching in Jamaican schools.

Speaking with the Jamaica Observer earlier this week, the producer said the practice is not only unhealthy but is inappropriate.

“I am calling on the education ministry to do something about it. As a child, you should do accordingly and I know that bleaching does not fits the criteria. I do not think the bleachers should be accepted in classes until their skin return to its normal tone,” he said.

DJ Lux stated that he does not have a problem with the practice of skin bleaching, but believes that should be done only by adults.

“I don’t have a problem with skin bleaching overall, but what I do have a problem with is skin bleaching by our boys and girls. This says a lot about our society and where our nation is heading to. Schoolchildren should focus more on education,” he said.

Skin bleaching is the practice of using substances, mixtures, or physical treatments to lighten skin colour. Skin whitening treatments work by reducing the content of melanin of the skin.

Minister of Education Senator Ruel Reid told Jamaica Observer the issue of skin bleaching in schools is a contentious one.

“While we don’t have an enlarged rule book at the education ministry, we allow institutions to publish their own rules and sets of guidelines. A number of institutions, if not all, have taken a stance against this practice and have their own way of dealing with the issue,” he said.

Several dancehall artistes have promoted skin bleaching, including Vybz Kartel, Alkaline, and Tommy Lee Sparta.

“I honestly don’t think the entertainers are to be blamed, as I think the low self-esteem of some black people contributes a lot to it,” he said.

DJ Lux, given name Luxsuko Campbell, has produced a number of tracks for several dancehall artistes including Shawn Storm, Rhyme Minista, Gaza Kim, and Iyara.

— Simone Morgan-Lindo