The Nigerian Association of Dermatologists (NAD) has urged Nigerians to shun skin bleaching, describing the growing use of harmful skin-lightening products as a serious public health issue capable of causing severe health complications.

The appeal was made during activities marking World Skin Health Day 2026, observed globally every July 8 to increase awareness of skin diseases, encourage healthy skincare habits and improve access to quality dermatological services.

This year’s international theme, “Better Knowledge, Better Skin Health,” was adapted locally as “Skin Health Beyond Skin Colour.” The campaign, organised by the Nigerian Association of Dermatologists, aims to encourage Nigerians to focus on maintaining healthy skin rather than altering their natural complexion.

Speaking on behalf of the association, Dr. Folakemi Cole-Adeife explained that the initiative is designed to educate the public that healthy skin should be measured by its ability to perform its natural protective functions and support overall wellbeing—not by skin colour.

She noted that skin disorders remain among the most common health conditions worldwide, affecting people of all ages through diseases such as eczema, acne, psoriasis, fungal infections, vitiligo, skin cancers and complications linked to albinism.

According to her, many of these conditions can either be prevented or effectively treated. However, factors including misinformation, self-medication, delayed hospital visits and limited access to specialist dermatological care continue to worsen outcomes.

A central focus of this year’s campaign, she said, is addressing the increasing use of skin-bleaching products across Africa.

Dr. Cole-Adeife cautioned that many skin-lightening products contain hazardous substances, including mercury, potent corticosteroids and excessive concentrations of hydroquinone. She warned that prolonged exposure to these ingredients can result in permanent skin damage, severe acne, difficult-to-treat infections, stretch marks, delayed wound healing, kidney damage and adrenal suppression.

“Skin bleaching is not merely a cosmetic issue, it is a significant public health concern that requires education, stronger regulation, responsible marketing and community engagement,” she said.

The dermatologist added that the campaign also seeks to challenge widespread misconceptions surrounding skincare. She stressed that maintaining healthy skin does not require harsh chemicals or unnecessary cosmetic procedures.

Instead, she encouraged evidence-based skincare practices such as gentle cleansing, regular moisturising, adequate sun protection, prompt treatment of skin conditions and avoiding unregulated skincare products.

The association further advised Nigerians to obtain skincare guidance from qualified healthcare professionals instead of relying on social media influencers or unqualified product vendors.

It also urged individuals experiencing persistent rashes, severe itching, unexplained skin colour changes, changing moles or wounds that fail to heal to seek immediate medical attention from trained healthcare providers.

As part of the nationwide observance, the Nigerian Association of Dermatologists is collaborating with government agencies, pharmacists, public health experts, healthcare professionals, civil society organisations and community leaders to conduct community outreach programmes, healthcare worker training, stakeholder engagements, public lectures, digital advocacy campaigns and a Pan-African webinar aimed at reducing the burden of skin bleaching across Africa.

Public health experts believe the initiative could help reduce preventable skin diseases, discourage the use of dangerous cosmetic products, improve early diagnosis of skin conditions and minimise complications resulting from delayed treatment. Greater public awareness is also expected to encourage informed skincare decisions, combat misinformation and improve overall quality of life.

Looking ahead, the association reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for stronger regulation of harmful skin-lightening products, expanding public education efforts and strengthening partnerships to improve access to accurate skincare information and quality dermatological care across Nigeria.

Dr. Cole-Adeife stated: “Healthy beautiful skin comes in all skin colours. Let us prioritise skin health over skin tone, knowledge over misinformation, and prevention over cure.”

She added that through better knowledge, Nigerians can achieve better skin health and protect themselves from preventable skin diseases.

Source: PM News