Posted on: Thu 19-02-2026

The Nigerian Association of Dermatologists (NAD) has raised the alarm that more than 168 million Nigerians are currently engaged in skin bleaching, a practice it warns is exposing millions to life-threatening conditions including cancer and liver failure.

Speaking at the launch of a nationwide awareness campaign in Lagos, the association described skin bleaching as having reached epidemic proportions in the country.

The campaign, themed “EmbraceYourSkin,” was unveiled during a press conference at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) Dermatological Clinic, LUTH Annexe, Yaba. The event drew journalists, dermatologists, public health experts and key stakeholders in the health sector.

NAD said skin bleaching involves the deliberate lightening of the skin through the use of topical creams, cosmetic procedures, oral tablets and even intravenous injections. While societal perceptions often associate lighter skin with beauty and social advantage, the association stressed that the medical consequences are severe and far-reaching.

“Skin bleaching is not just a cosmetic choice – it is a health risk with severe complications,” said Prof. Dasetima Altraide, President of NAD.

According to him, the practice has been linked to rising cases of skin cancers, chronic and treatment-resistant fungal infections, irreversible skin damage, allergic reactions, and damage to vital organs such as the liver and kidneys.

He expressed particular concern over the exposure of vulnerable groups, noting that children and unborn babies are increasingly at risk.

“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,” he said.

Statistics cited by NAD indicate that the prevalence of skin bleaching in Nigeria ranges between 40 and 84 per cent, based on data from the World Health Organization Afro Region and iAHO 2023 reports.

Nigeria has, over the years, been described as both “the world capital of skin bleaching” and “the skin-lightening hot house of the world,” underscoring how deeply entrenched the practice has become.

Reaffirming the association’s resolve to confront the crisis, Prof. Altraide said NAD’s mission is clear: “Our mission is to educate, protect, and empower Nigerians to embrace their natural skin tones.”

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