A Nigerian travel and fitness content creator has sparked debate after saying he was surprised by what he perceived as lower visibility of Brazilian Butt Lifts (BBLs) and skin bleaching among Kenyan women compared with Nigeria.
In a video shared on Instagram, the creator said he had expected to see more women pursuing cosmetic procedures and skin-lightening treatments during his visit to Kenya.
Instead, he said he observed many Kenyan women embracing their natural appearance.
“I discovered that a lot of women here embrace their natural beauty, and it’s like Kenyan men are not obsessed with big nyash (BBLs). You just come to Nigeria, every woman with money runs to get BBLs and bleach their skin,” he said.
His comments have since prompted conversations about beauty standards, social media influence and the different ways women choose to present themselves.
Some Kenyans agreed with his observation, arguing that cosmetic procedures are not part of the everyday lives of most women in the country.
Others pointed out that cosmetic procedures and skin-lightening products are visible in Kenya, particularly among some celebrities, influencers and people who follow beauty trends online.
A BBL is a cosmetic procedure in which fat is removed from one part of the body and transferred to the buttocks. Like other surgical procedures, it can carry health risks and requires professional medical care.
Several Kenyan public figures have spoken publicly about cosmetic procedures or skin-lightening treatments.
Influencer Amber Ray, for example, recently travelled to Turkey for cosmetic procedures and has spoken publicly about plans for further treatment.
Influencer Lydia Wanjiru has also confirmed undergoing liposuction, a tummy tuck and a BBL, and shared aspects of her recovery with her followers.
Socialite Vera Sidika is another Kenyan public figure who has discussed cosmetic procedures. In 2014, she told BBC Trending that she had undergone skin-lightening treatment in the United Kingdom.
Actress Eunice Wambui, popularly known as Nyasuguta, has also spoken publicly about skin bleaching, contributing to wider conversations around colourism and beauty standards.
Nigeria has experienced similar debates. Nigerian celebrities and public figures who have been reported as admitting to BBL procedures include Toke Makinwa, Mercy Eke, Nengi Hampson, Khloe and Blessing CEO.
Their choices have contributed to the visibility of cosmetic surgery in Nigerian popular culture.
However, public discussions about BBLs and skin bleaching should also include health concerns.
It is important to note that sometimes cosmetic surgery may involve complications, while unsafe skin-lightening products may damage the skin.
The viral video has therefore raised an important question: are African women freely choosing these procedures, or are social media and beauty standards influencing their decisions?