The Nigerian Association of Dermatologists has launched a nationwide campaign to address growing public health concerns about skin bleaching in Nigeria.
The campaign, themed “EmbraceYourSkin” was unveiled during a press conference held at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital Dermatological Clinic, LUTH Annex, Yaba, Lagos, during the weekend.
Speaking during the briefing hosted by Eucerin, the NAD President, Prof. Dasetima Altraide, warned that the medical risks associated with bleaching are severe and far outweigh any perceived benefits.
Altraide explained that while lighter skin is often perceived as more desirable or socially advantageous, the practice has been linked to several infections, including skin cancers.
“Skin bleaching is not just a cosmetic choice – it is a health risk with severe complications. The practice has been linked to rising incidences of skin cancers, treatment-resistant fungal infections, destruction of the skin, allergies, and damage to vital organs such as the liver and kidneys.
“Alarmingly, even children and unborn babies are being exposed to harmful products, often before they can say no. In fact, there have been instances of pregnant mothers ingesting substances to lighten their unborn children,” Altraide said.
The NAD president said statistics showed that skin bleaching prevalence in Nigeria ranges from 40% to 84%, according to the WHO Afro Region and iAHO 2023 data.
He explained that Nigeria has been labelled both “the world capital of skin bleaching” and “the skin-lightening hot house of the world,” reflecting how deeply rooted the issue has become.
Altraide said the association was committed to educating, protecting, and empowering Nigerians to embrace their natural skin tones.
“Pharmacists, regulatory bodies, the media, and every Nigerian have a role to play. Together, we can dismantle the false narratives that have unfairly labelled dark skin as inferior,” he said.
The NAD president commended Eucerin for supporting the nationwide advocacy effort.
He also acknowledged the contributions of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control and the Federal Ministry of Health, praising the ministry’s recent regulations guiding the safe use of cosmetics in Nigeria.
Altraide, who is a consultant physician and dermatologist at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, Rivers State, underscored the need for collective action.
“This is a clarion call for everyone to play a role in stemming this epidemic of skin bleaching that has taken centre stage in our society,” he said.
He urged pharmacists and regulatory agencies to ensure harmful bleaching agents are not readily accessible over the counter and called on the media to amplify accurate information that reshapes the long-held false narrative that has labeled the natural dark skin as inferior.
Altriade encouraged the public to prioritise their health and self-confidence.
“To our dear fellow Nigerians, it is important to stress that skin bleaching is a harmful practice that must be avoided. Your natural skin colour is the best for you. Embrace it,” Altraide said.
The NAD president urged the public to seek qualified medical attention for skin concerns, ensure the use of scientifically and clinically backed solutions, and to avoid harmful bleaching products.
“Skin health matters. Skincare is a responsibility. You were born this shade, own your shade. Embrace your skin,” the consultant dermatologist said.
Credit: healthwise.punchng.com
