The BBC has removed an article that suggested the trend of leaving fingernails unpainted could perpetuate "White supremacist" beauty standards after it drew widespread criticism on Saturday.
The original article, which explored the trend of women preferring clear and polished "naked" nails over more styled designs, was met with backlash from critics who suggested it stigmatized communities that popularized heavily designed nails. Beauty journalist Kristina Rodulfo told the BBC that the trend promotes "blankness and sameness" that erases culture and identity in Black and Brown communities.
Critics accused the article of linking nail design to racism and class warfare, with some comparing it to propaganda. Sex Matters director of advocacy Helen Joyce wrote on X that the article was "stupid and pointless" and that the salary of the writer was paid by a levy on people who watch live TV. Radio host Dana Loesch remarked that the article was "bad news for the ladies who thought they were saving $80 on a manicure but were actually dogwhistling."
The article was removed from the BBC website and replaced with a statement saying it was pending editorial review. However, that statement was also removed, and the original URL now leads to a 404 error page. The BBC has not commented on the matter.
This move comes amid a controversy surrounding the BBC's handling of a documentary about President Donald Trump's speech on January 6, 2021. The president's legal team has accused the BBC of maliciously editing footage and has filed a lawsuit against the network.
NTC Report coverage is based on reporting from the original publisher.
View original reporting →
