Lagos, Nigeria — Thursday, February 5, 2026 — The Nigerian Association of Dermatologists (NAD) has officially launched a nationwide campaign to address the growing public health concerns linked to skin bleaching in Nigeria. The campaign, themed “EmbraceYourSkin,” was unveiled at a press conference held at the LUTH Dermatological Clinic, LUTH Annex, Yaba, Lagos. The event brought together leading journalists, dermatologists, public health experts, policymakers, and key industry stakeholders committed to advancing skin health and consumer safety in Nigeria.
During the briefing, NAD highlighted the escalating public health crisis posed by skin bleaching — a practice that involves intentionally lightening the skin using topical products, cosmetic procedures, oral medications, and intravenous treatments. While lighter skin is often perceived as more socially advantageous, the Association emphasised that the medical consequences are severe and far outweigh any perceived benefits.
“Skin bleaching is not merely a cosmetic decision — it is a significant health risk with potentially life-threatening complications,” said Prof. Dasetima Altraide, President of NAD. He explained that the practice has been linked to increased incidences of skin cancers, treatment-resistant fungal infections, permanent skin damage, allergic reactions, and damage to vital organs including the liver and kidneys. He further noted with concern that exposure is increasingly occurring among vulnerable populations, including children and unborn babies, with reports of pregnant women ingesting substances in attempts to lighten their unborn children.
Statistics presented by the Association, drawn from the WHO Afro Region and iAHO 2023 data, indicate that the prevalence of skin bleaching in Nigeria ranges between 40% and 84%. These findings have led to Nigeria being described internationally as both “the world capital of skin bleaching” and “the skin-lightening hot house of the world,” underscoring the depth of the challenge.
Reaffirming NAD’s commitment to reversing the trend, Prof. Altraide emphasised that education, regulation, and public awareness are essential pillars of the campaign. He called on pharmacists, regulatory agencies, healthcare professionals, the media, and the general public to work collectively to dismantle harmful misconceptions that equate lighter skin with superiority.
NAD expressed appreciation to Eucerin for supporting the nationwide advocacy effort. The Association also acknowledged the contributions of NAFDAC and the Federal Ministry of Health, commending recent regulatory actions guiding the safe use of cosmetic products in Nigeria as a critical step toward strengthening consumer protection.
Underscoring the urgency of collective action, Prof. Altraide described the campaign as a national call to responsibility. He urged regulatory agencies and pharmacists to ensure harmful bleaching agents are not readily available over the counter and encouraged the media to amplify accurate, science-based information that promotes healthy skin practices and self-acceptance.
Addressing Nigerians directly, he reiterated that natural skin colour should be embraced and protected. The Association encouraged the public to prioritise health, self-confidence, and evidence-based skincare practices.
The “EmbraceYourSkin” campaign will leverage public education initiatives, expert engagement, and sustained media outreach to increase awareness of the dangers of skin bleaching while promoting national pride in natural skin tones. NAD further urged individuals with skin concerns to seek qualified medical advice and to avoid harmful or unregulated products.
“Skin health matters. Skincare is a responsibility. You were born this shade — own your shade. Embrace your skin,” Prof. Altraide concluded.
