Feature: Skin bleaching for aesthetics. Tebogo is concerned about his partner's obsession with skin bleaching on Uthanda Bani episode 11

Zimkhitha

8 August 2023

Uthanda Bani: Skin bleaching for aesthetics

You know it’s serious when someone calls Uthanda Bani for an intervention. The latest episode of the show introduced viewers to Mpho, who’s trying to get his partner, Tebogo, to stop bleaching his skin. With the help of the show, Mpho hopes that Tebogo will see the negative effects of bleaching his skin.

“I understand his job may require him to be kind of wild, in a way, for the entertainment industry. You know those people, like Barbie... Khanyi Mbau and other people who are using such products,” he told Basani. Mpho also revealed that Tebogo is actually Khanyi Mbau’s cousin. “I think his cousin has influenced him to bleach his skin.” According to Mpho, Tebogo uses skin lightening products on a daily basis and has been doing so since 2021.

“When you see him, you wouldn’t think he bleaches. But once you know, you’d be surprised,” he said. Tebogo has also reportedly deleted all the pictures of himself before he bleached his skin. Mpho believes that this stems from insecurities about his physical appearance.

When confronted about the issue, Tebogo didn’t understand why Mpho would be bothered. “Honestly, I feel better when I’m lighter in complexion because I’m actually trying to penetrate the entertainment industry. So, I believe the entertainment industry is all about aesthetic,” Tebogo said on the show.

He explained that he was dark before he started with the process. “When I started bleaching, I bought products from this other lady, it was a combo for R1 500.” After that, the lady asked that they do a trade exchange. Tebogo would promote her bleaching products, and he would receive free products in return. “Then after that, I decided that since I was lighter in complexion, I’d be an influencer, and that helped me in so many ways,” he said.

Tebogo has never been to a dermatologist and Basani asked if he’s aware of the side effects of skin bleaching products. He’s aware that skin cancer is a potential threat. “The melanin is the one that protects you from the sun. Hence they advise that if you bleach your skin, always wear sunscreen. I knew what I was getting myself into,” Tebogo said. Basani advised him to accept himself as he is. He admitted that he has a problem and agreed to see the recommended dermatologist.

All the episodes of Uthanda Bani are available to binge-watch on Showmax.

More addictive reality series to stream online »

Watch it now

More like this

Reality Reality series Series

The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Africa on Showmax

Jojo on The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Africa reunion, social media backlash and more

Jojo opens up about the highly anticipated reunion for The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Africa, coming to Showmax on 20 and 27 February.

Original South Africa

South Africa’s stories and storytellers recognised as SAFTA nominees announced

Mzansi’s boldest stories take centre stage as the 2026 SAFTA nominees are unveiled, with a wave of nominations across DStv and Showmax.

Made in South Africa

Surviving Mormonism with Heather Gay on Showmax

Surviving Mormonism with Heather Gay S1

Former RHOSLC cast member Heather Gay investigates hidden truths within the Mormon church, exposing cracks in its perfect facade.

First

The ‘Burbs S1

In this adaptation of the 1980s Tom Hanks dark comedy, a couple moves back to the husband's hometown, only to face a cul-de-sac shrouded in mystery.

First

“You don't create something so powerful purely through military tactics” - Shaka iLembe co-creator

Shaka iLembe co-creator Desireé Markgraaff reflects on the vision, research, and importance of telling our stories. Stream Seasons 1–2 on Showmax.

South Africa

Where to see the cast of Shaka iLembe S1-2 on Showmax

From Nomzamo Mbatha as Queen Nandi to Lemogang Tsipa as King Shaka Zulu and Thembinkosi Mthembu as King Dingiswayo, see the cast of Shaka iLembe in some of their other acclaimed roles on Showmax. Binge now on Showmax.

South Africa

MaBlerh as the host ofThe Real Housewives of Durban Season 4 reunion on Showmax

MaBlerh to host the first-ever The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Africa reunion

MaBlerh will host the first-ever reunion for The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Africa, set to air in two parts in February 2026.

Original South Africa

Shaka iLembe S1-2

Set in the 1700s, Shaka iLembe tells the story of the making of the iconic African king. All episodes are now available to binge.

Made in South Africa

The Mommy Club: Friendship drama

Abo Auntie: What about me?!

More reality? Try The Mommy Club

Noksie on The Mommy Club S3 and the explosive reunion

Noksie talks about joining The Mommy Club S3, how she feels about the ladies and what went down at the explosive reunion, now streaming on Showmax.

OriginalMade in South Africa

Fire burning flame Isolated on a black background

The Roast of Helen Zille vs The Mommy Club reunion moments

Here are some of the jaw-dropping quotes and moments from The Showmax Roast of Helen Zille and The Mommy Club S3 reunion, now streaming on Showmax.

Made in South Africa

The Mommy Club S1-3

Meet the glamorous ladies of the Mommy Club, the Jozi mothers who let us into their lives. All episodes are streaming including Part 1 of the reunion. Part 2 lands on 24 May.

OriginalMade in South Africa