The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako, has expressed deep concerns over the growing use of skin-lightening products (SLPs) in Nigeria and across Africa, citing severe health risks. Despite the well-documented dangers, the use of these products remains prevalent, particularly among women.
Widespread Usage in Nigeria
Speaking at a regional awareness workshop on eliminating lightening cosmetic products in Gabon, Dr. Salako revealed that Nigeria, often labeled the “world capital of skin bleaching,” has one of the highest rates of SLP usage globally. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 77% of Nigerian women use skin-bleaching products, which include creams, soaps, ointments, pills, and injections.
Health Risks of SLPs
Dr. Salako highlighted the harmful substances in many skin-whitening products, such as mercury, hydroquinone, steroids, and heavy metals like arsenic, lead, and cadmium. These chemicals are linked to severe health issues, including skin damage, organ toxicity, and cancer.
He emphasized the need for public health campaigns, stricter regulatory enforcement, and grassroots advocacy to address the practice.
Regulatory Actions and Public Education
To combat the growing trend, Nigeria is developing a National Policy on Cosmetics to ensure the safety and quality of cosmetic products. Through the Cosmetics Safety Management Programme, the Federal Ministry of Health conducts sensitization, training, and advocacy campaigns aimed at influencing behavioral changes.
The government also enforces regulations like the Cosmetic Products (Prohibition of Bleaching Agents) Regulations 2019, which ban harmful agents such as mercury and limit hydroquinone concentration to 2%.
Monitoring and Enforcement Efforts
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) plays a key role in ensuring that all cosmetic products meet safety standards. The agency conducts market surveillance, seizes and destroys counterfeit or unsafe products, and monitors online platforms for mercury-containing items.
To empower citizens, the government introduced the MedSafety app, which allows users to report adverse reactions to cosmetics, ensuring swift regulatory action.
Promoting Safe Cosmetic Alternatives
Dr. Salako disclosed that Nigeria is working on a guideline for the safety assessment of cosmetic products to align with international standards. These efforts aim to eliminate harmful practices, promote safe alternatives, and encourage a healthier perspective on beauty.
Sources:
Speech delivered by Dr. Iziaq Salako at the regional workshop in Gabon
WHO reports on skin-lightening product usage
National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC)
