InStyle magazine has asserted it did not lighten Kerry Washington's skin tone on its March 2015 cover.
The publication denied claims of such in a statement on its website Thursday. Washington's appearance immediately caused controversy after the issue was revealed Wednesday, with many concerned the 38-year-old actress' skin had been altered to appear lighter.
"We are super fans of Kerry Washington here at InStyle," the magazine declared. "We have heard from those who have spoken out about our newsstand cover photograph, concerned that Kerry's skin tone was lightened. While we did not digitally lighten Kerry's skin tone, our cover lighting has likely contributed to this concern."
"We understand that this has resulted in disappointed and hurt," the publication acknowledged. "We are listening, and the feedback has been valuable. We are committed to ensuring that this experience has a positive influence on the ways which we present all women going forward."
Washington addressed the outcry Thursday on Twitter, writing, "Beautiful statement. Thank u 4 opening this convo. Its an important 1 that needs to be had." The actress was previously deemed unrecognizable on the December/January 2013 cover of Lucky magazine.
Washington is known for such films as Ray, The Last King of Scotland and Django Unchained, and currently stars as Olivia Pope on ABC drama Scandal. The series is in the midst of a fourth season, and airs Thursdays at 9 p.m. ET.