The Nigerian Association of Dermatologists (NAD) has raised alarm over the escalating skin bleaching epidemic in Nigeria, describing it as a growing public health crisis, with prevalence now estimated to reach as high as 84 per cent.

The association warned that the practice, driven by societal pressures to lighten the skin, poses serious health risks, including cancers, organ damage, and treatment-resistant infections. To combat the trend, NAD, with the support of Eucerin, launched a nationwide campaign themed “Embrace Your Skin.”

The campaign, unveiled at a press briefing held at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) Dermatological Clinic, Yaba, Lagos, brought together dermatologists, public health experts, and industry stakeholders to educate Nigerians on the dangers of skin bleaching and promote pride in natural skin tones.

Speaking at the event, NAD President, Prof. Dasetima Altraide, said the practice of intentionally lightening the skin, through topical creams, cosmetic procedures, oral tablets, and even intravenous treatments, is not merely a cosmetic choice but a serious health hazard. He noted that while lighter skin is often perceived as more attractive or socially advantageous, the medical complications of bleaching far outweigh any perceived benefits.

“Skin bleaching is a health risk with severe consequences. The practice has been linked to rising incidences of skin cancers, bizarre fungal infections that resist treatment, destruction of the skin, severe allergies, and damage to vital organs such as the liver and kidneys,” he warned.

Altraide lamented that children and even unborn babies are also being exposed to these harmful products and highlighted reports of pregnant women ingesting substances to lighten their unborn children.

Citing data from the WHO Afro Region and iAHO 2023, NAD revealed that the prevalence of skin bleaching in Nigeria ranges from 40 to 84 per cent. The association said these figures have earned Nigeria labels such as “the world capital of skin bleaching” and “the skin-lightening hot house of the world,” reflecting the deep entrenchment of the practice in society.

He emphasised that tackling the issue requires collective action. “Our mission is to educate, protect, and empower Nigerians to embrace their natural skin tones,” he said.

The association expressed gratitude to Eucerin for supporting the nationwide advocacy campaign. It also acknowledged the efforts of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), which declared a state of emergency on skin bleaching in 2023, and the Federal Ministry of Health for introducing regulations guiding the safe use of cosmetics in Nigeria.

Highlighting the regulatory role of pharmacists and authorities, Altraide urged that harmful bleaching products should not be readily accessible over the counter. He also called on the media to amplify accurate information about the dangers of bleaching and challenge long-held societal biases against darker skin tones.

Reiterating the message to Nigerians, NAD encouraged the public to prioritise their health and self-confidence.

“To our 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.

According to NAD, the campaign will use public education, expert guidance, and extensive media engagement to raise awareness about the risks of skin bleaching while promoting national pride in natural skin tones.