Colorism is a form of discrimination where individuals are treated differently based on the shade of their skin, often favoring lighter skin tones over darker ones. This bias can occur within racial or ethnic groups and is influenced by societal standards of beauty, which often prioritize lighter skin. The effects of colorism can be seen in various areas, including media representation, employment opportunities, and social interactions. It can lead to internalized racism, where individuals may feel pressured to conform to these beauty standards, impacting their self-esteem and identity.