By Fatima Saka
Nigeria has been labeled “the world capital of skin bleaching” due to its high usage of skin-lightening products, according to the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako.
Citing a World Health Organization (WHO) report, Dr. Salako revealed that Nigeria has the highest rate of skin-lightening product use globally, with 77% of Nigerian women engaging in the practice.
Speaking at a high-level segment of the regional awareness-raising workshop in Gabon on the elimination of mercury-containing cosmetic products, he emphasized that tackling skin bleaching requires a multidisciplinary approach, involving dermatologists, environmental epidemiologists, biostatisticians, behavioral psychologists, pharmacologists, and community health specialists.
“African governments must revive the ‘Black is Beautiful’ cultural movement to counter the promotion of Eurocentric beauty standards and encourage self-acceptance,” Dr. Salako stated.
“Fairer skin does not mean better skin. Africa must take the lead in enforcing global conventions like the Minamata Convention on Mercury and advocate for the WHO to designate a World Skin Health Day to intensify awareness against harmful skin-lightening practices.”
High Prevalence of Skin Bleaching in Nigeria
According to the Minister, recent surveys confirm the widespread use of skin-lightening products across Nigeria. Key findings include:
52% of Nigerian cosmetic manufacturers include skin-lightening agents in their formulations, according to the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.
A Nigeria Opinion Institute (NOIPolls) survey found that 64% of Nigerians believe skin bleaching is highly prevalent, with 97% agreeing it is particularly common among women.
Studies among Nigerian university students report a 62.4% – 64.9% prevalence rate, with over 76% aware of the practice.
40% of respondents mistakenly believe that skin bleaching enhances beauty and fashion appeal.
Many people use “toning” as a euphemism for bleaching, under the false belief that it is less harmful.
Dr. Salako explained that societal pressures and deep-rooted cultural beliefs drive this phenomenon. Lighter skin is often associated with beauty, success, and social mobility, a mindset that stems from colonial history, societal norms, and peer influence.
Health Risks of Skin Bleaching
The Minister warned that many skin-lightening products contain harmful substances, including mercury, hydroquinone, steroids, lead, cadmium, and arsenic. These chemicals pose serious health risks, such as:
Hydroquinone: Linked to skin irritation, ochronosis (bluish-black discoloration), and potential carcinogenicity with prolonged use.
Mercury: Causes kidney damage, neurological disorders, and immune suppression. Pregnant women and children are especially vulnerable.
Lead, cadmium, and arsenic: Found in unregulated cosmetics, they can cause neurotoxicity, kidney dysfunction, bone demineralization, and cancer.
Steroids: Lead to skin thinning, impaired wound healing, adrenal suppression, and hormonal imbalances.
“The widespread use of unsafe cosmetic products in Nigeria and across Africa demands urgent public health interventions, stronger regulatory enforcement, and community-based advocacy,” Dr. Salako stated.
Government Efforts to Combat Skin Bleaching
The Federal Government of Nigeria is implementing several initiatives to promote safe cosmetic use and regulate harmful products.
1. Public Awareness Campaigns
The Cosmetics Safety Management Programme (CSMP) is leading grassroots campaigns to challenge Eurocentric beauty standards and promote self-acceptance. Strategies include:
Promoting messages that celebrate diverse African skin tones.
Encouraging self-confidence and self-worth beyond appearance.
Partnering with celebrities and influencers to promote natural beauty.
2. Regulatory Measures
The Cosmetic Products (Prohibition of Bleaching Agents) Regulations 2019 bans harmful skin-bleaching agents, including mercury.
Hydroquinone concentration is restricted to 2%, in line with international safety standards.
NAFDAC (National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control) ensures all cosmetic products are registered, tested, and certified before entering the market.
Unregulated and counterfeit products are seized and destroyed, with routine market surveillance to remove harmful items.
3. Strengthening Policy Frameworks
Nigeria is developing a National Policy on Cosmetics, establishing clear guidelines for the manufacturing, importation, and sale of cosmetic products.
New safety assessment guidelines will align with international health and safety standards.
The government is monitoring online platforms to curb the sale of mercury-containing cosmetics.
4. Digital Tools for Public Safety
The MedSafety App has been introduced to allow the public to report adverse cosmetic reactions easily.
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Dr. Salako emphasized that African nations must work together to establish regional policies and enforcement strategies against the production and sale of harmful skin-bleaching products.
“It is time for Africa to reclaim authentic beauty standards and protect public health by enforcing strict cosmetic regulations,” he added.
Distinct News reports that Skin bleaching in Nigeria is a public health crisis driven by social, historical, and cultural influences. While many are aware of its dangers, societal pressures continue to fuel its prevalence. Stronger laws, intensified public education, and cultural reorientation are key to eradicating this harmful practice.
