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Michael Jackson was one of the most popular pop-culture icons in music, dance, and style throughout the 80s and 90s.
Moreover, he also held the record for being the highest-paid entertainer in history. He sold over 750 million records, and his net worth was around $1 billion at the time of his death. Jackson rose to fame with his elaborate stage performances and music videos that featured cutting-edge technology and amazing songwriting.
Despite Michael Jackson's contributions to pop culture and music history, there has always been an air of controversy when it comes to his skin color. Before we dive right into it, let's take a look at some pressing questions: Did Michael Jackson bleach his skin? Did he have vitiligo? Here's all the scoop you need to know.
A Closer Look At Michael Jackson’s Skin Transformation
Growing up as a member of the Jackson Five, Michael Jackson was prone to acne breakouts but showed no signs of the discoloring skin disease that troubled him later in life.
Nor was any unusual skin condition evident when he recorded his single, "Ben." However, by the time he went into the studio to record the Thriller album, he noticed changes in his skin color.
In a 1993 interview with Oprah Winfrey, Jackson discussed reports that he was bleaching his skin in an effort to look more Caucasian. He did not reveal the name of the disease that caused him to lose pigment on his hands, but he told Winfrey that rumors that he was dissatisfied with his own race pained him deeply.
"I have a skin disorder that destroys the pigmentation of the skin," said Jackson. "It's something I cannot help."
When Michael Jackson explained that his skin had changed color because of a rare disorder, he was met with both empathy and skepticism. Some people believed him, while others discounted his claim.
Living with vitiligo can be challenging due to its impact on a person's appearance, self-esteem, and social interactions.
Vitiligo in white people
Vitiligo can affect people of all races and ethnicities, including white people. However, it may be more noticeable in individuals with lighter skin tones due to the contrast between the white patches and the surrounding skin.
What are the early signs of vitiligo?
Vitiligo can cause white patches to appear on the skin. Symptoms of vitiligo include depigmented patches of skin, premature whitening, and graying of hair. You might notice a white or light-colored spot on the skin. If there's blood underneath the skin, the patch may be slightly pink rather than white.
Treatment for vitiligo
Although there is no cure for vitiligo, various treatments are available to manage the symptoms, such as topical corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, phototherapy, and depigmentation of unaffected skin, which should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
Did Michael Jackson Bleach His Skin?
Ten years before his interview with Oprah Winfrey, Michael Jackson told his dermatologist, Arnold Klein, that he noticed patches of skin turning white on his hands and body. Jackson, who was diagnosed with vitiligo, is one of the most famous people to publicly disclose their condition.
Some people believe Michael Jackson bleached his skin to even out his skin tone. Celebrity biographer J. Randy Taraborelli said that the late King of Pop used over-the-counter skin whitening products to lighten his skin. American director John Landis also said that he once saw Jackson's bleached chest.
Despite the evidence, Jackson always denied that he bleached his skin. He claimed that he wore thick layers of makeup to even out his skin tone. After his death, close family members and friends said that they don't know if he used bleaching products.
