LAGOS — Dermatologists in Nigeria have urged citizens to shun skin-bleaching practices and embrace healthy skincare habits, warning that the growing trend poses serious public health risks.
The call was made by the Dermatology Society of Lagos in collaboration with the Nigerian Association of Dermatologists (NAD) ahead of the 2026 World Skin Health Day, observed annually on July 8.
Speaking on the theme of this year’s event, “Better Knowledge, Better Skin Health,” Dr. Folakemi Cole-Adeife, a Consultant Physician and Dermatologist at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, stressed the need to prioritise skin health over complexion.
According to her, the Nigerian campaign themed “Skin Health Beyond Skin Colour” aims to redirect attention from skin lightening to proper skin care and disease prevention.
“Healthy skin is not determined by how light or dark it is. It is skin that performs its natural protective functions and supports overall wellbeing,” she said.
Cole-Adeife described skin diseases as some of the most common health conditions globally, affecting individuals across all age groups. She listed conditions such as eczema, acne, psoriasis, fungal infections, vitiligo and skin cancers as prevalent concerns.
She noted that despite many of these conditions being preventable or treatable, delayed medical attention, misinformation and self-medication often lead to complications.
The dermatologist raised alarm over the increasing use of skin-lightening products across Africa, attributing the trend to colourism, misleading beauty standards and aggressive marketing.
She warned that many bleaching products contain harmful substances such as potent corticosteroids, mercury and high concentrations of hydroquinone, which can lead to permanent skin damage, severe infections, kidney problems and hormonal imbalances.
“Skin bleaching is no longer just a cosmetic issue; it is a major public health concern that requires urgent attention through education, regulation and community engagement,” she said.
To mark the 2026 World Skin Health Day, she said the association would carry out community outreach programmes, public lectures, healthcare worker training, stakeholder engagements, digital advocacy and a Pan-African webinar focused on tackling skin bleaching.
Cole-Adeife also advised Nigerians to adopt simple skincare routines, including gentle cleansing, regular moisturising, sun protection and prompt treatment of skin conditions, while avoiding unregulated products.
She cautioned against relying on social media or unqualified vendors for skincare advice, urging the public to seek guidance from certified healthcare professionals.
She further encouraged individuals to seek medical attention for persistent rashes, non-healing wounds, severe itching or unexplained skin changes.
Highlighting the causes of skin diseases, she listed infections, allergies, genetic and immune-related factors, environmental exposure, excessive sunlight and unhealthy lifestyle practices.
She emphasised that misuse of skin-lightening products has significantly contributed to the rising burden of skin disorders in the country.
Reiterating the campaign’s core message, Cole-Adeife called on Nigerians to embrace their natural skin tone and reject harmful beauty standards.
“Healthy and beautiful skin exists in all colours. What matters most is proper care, early diagnosis and informed choices,” she said.
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