The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako, is worried about the increasing use of skin-lightening products (SLPs) among Nigerians and Africans despite their harmful effects.
Speaking on Wednesday at a high-level regional awareness workshop on the elimination of lightening cosmetics in Gabon, Salako highlighted that the use of skin-bleaching products, including creams, ointments, soaps, pills, and injections, is prevalent among non-white populations globally. He noted that the trend is particularly widespread in Africa, especially among women.
“Nigeria may have been called ‘the world capital of skin bleaching”. He said.
Salako also referred to the societal pressures contributing to the phenomenon, stating, “Not only are women using these products, but men also tend to put direct or indirect pressure on women to lighten their skin. Therefore, our campaigns must not exclude men.”
He further revealed that Nigeria is currently developing a National Policy on Cosmetics to establish a comprehensive framework for ensuring the safety and quality of cosmetic products. This policy aims to regulate the production and distribution of cosmetics, particularly those containing harmful substances.
The workshop forms part of a broader effort to address the risks associated with skin-lightening products, which include skin damage, hormonal imbalances, and long-term health complications. Salako urged African nations to prioritize awareness and regulatory measures to curb the growing trend.
