In these modern times, one would assume that companies and corporations have learned that racism is generally not great for business. But, apparently, this is a lesson which needs to be taught on a continual basis.
A Korean beauty company recently released an orange nail polish — and the advertising has Twitter totally flabbergasted.
What in tarnation ? pic.twitter.com/8RULkX8vi0
— Darcei Amanda (@MissDarcei) July 18, 2018
At first glance, the advertisement might seem completely innocuous.
But, take a closer look at the hands in these photos …
Yep. The “black” hand in this photo is clearly just a white hand that has been covered in dark makeup.
why is the palm black… https://t.co/ZBASxGgWyg
— 1-800-did-i-ask? call now! ?? (@iconickbeauty) July 19, 2018
As many Twitter users pointed out, people with darker complexions still have lighter skin on their palms — and the fact that the model in this photo has the same skin tone all over her hand is a dead giveaway that makeup and/or Photoshop was used.
People were truly shocked. Like, what year are we even living in? Is “blackhand” now a thing?
THEY DIDN’T pic.twitter.com/WpGexbdeAJ
— tRÉ? (@_BLACKEFFECT) July 19, 2018
a mess
— ALANA ?? (@alanaauston) July 19, 2018
I just looked at my palm to make sure I wasn’t tripping
— ? (@Snoblifestyle_) July 19, 2018
I’m in confusion pic.twitter.com/6Z3UiOzPFp
— Lady Tokki ☆ (@sleepy_tokki) July 18, 2018
When the graphic designer has never actually seen a Black hand irl??? https://t.co/CM91E5z919
— Killmonger My Vagina ???♀️ (@BasicBlaecGirl) July 19, 2018
introducing blackhand? pic.twitter.com/l4Izuqzv9P
— ma’am, pls (@NyajuokStephen) July 19, 2018
who knew ‘blackhand’ was a thing ???
— bliss (@paradoxical0) July 19, 2018
To add insult to injury, the graphic designer apparently couldn’t even be bothered to complete the job.
THEY DIDNT EVEN PHOTOSHOP THE PINKY!!! pic.twitter.com/pZONFq1sPL
— becky (@somehowhipster) July 19, 2018
Honestly, y’all: it’s not difficult to find a woman of color who’s willing to be a hand model. This sh*t is just straight-up lazy.
On the bright side, perhaps this gaffe will kill the ugly orange nail polish trend before it has a chance to begin?