Nigerian Association of Dermatologists Launches “Embrace Your Skin” Campaign | Get the Scoop
LR. (Doctor specialist in dermatology, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu) Dr. Chukwuka Ifeanyi Robert; (Consultant dermatologist, Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH) Kano) Dr. Faiza Sadauki; (Consultant Dermatologist, Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH)) Dr. Ehiaghe Anaba; (Consultant Dermatologist, University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital and President of the Nigerian Association of Dermatologists (NAD)) Prof. Altraides to the Dacelts; (Consultant Dermatologist, Lagos University Teaching Hospital, LUTH) Dr. Ayesha Akinkugbe; and (Consultant Dermatologist, Federal Medical Center, Keffi) Dr. Gboyega Olarinoye; at the official launch of the NAD Anti-Skin Bleaching Campaign, hosted by Eucerin, held at the LUTH Dermatology Clinic, LUTH Annex, 24, Harvey Road, Yaba on 5th February 2026.
In response to the increasing health risks associated with skin bleaching, Nigerian Association of Dermatologists (NAD) has launched a national public awareness campaign encouraging Nigerians to embrace their natural skin tone and prioritize their health. Campaign, thematic “Embrace your skin”, was presented at a press conference attended by dermatologists, health advocates, journalists and stakeholders from the health and beauty sector.
During the briefing, the Nigerian Association of Dermatologists (NAD) highlighted the growing public health crisis caused by skin bleaching, a practice that involves deliberately lightening the skin with topical products, cosmetic procedures, oral pills and even intravenous treatments. The association noted that while lighter skin is often perceived as more desirable or socially beneficial, the medical risks associated with bleaching are serious and far outweigh any perceived benefits.
“Skin bleaching is not just a cosmetic choice – it’s a health risk with serious complications,” he said Dasetima Altraida, prof. President of the Nigerian Association of Dermatologists (NAD). “The practice has been linked to an increase in the incidence of skin cancer, fungal infections resistant to treatment, skin destruction, allergies and damage to vital organs such as the liver and kidneys. Worryingly, even children and unborn babies are exposed to harmful products, often before they can say no. In fact, there have been cases of pregnant mothers taking substances to lighten their unborn children.”
Statistics shared by NAD showed that the prevalence of skin bleaching in Nigeria ranges between 40% and 84%, according to the WHO Afro Region and iAHO 2023. Nigeria has been labeled both the “skin bleaching capital of the world” and the “skin lightening hothouse of the world”, reflecting how deeply entrenched the problem has become.
Professor Altraide reinforced the Association’s commitment to fighting the crisis, saying: “Our mission is to educate, protect and empower Nigerians to embrace their natural skin tones. Pharmacists, regulatory bodies, the media and every Nigerian has a role to play. Together we can dismantle the false narratives that have unfairly labeled dark skin as inferior.”
LR. (Doctor specialist in dermatology, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu) Dr. Chukwuka Ifeanyi Robert; (Consultant dermatologist, Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH) Kano) Dr. Faiza Sadauki; (Consultant Dermatologist, Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH)) Dr. Ehiaghe Anaba; (Consultant Dermatologist, University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital and President of the Nigerian Association of Dermatologists (NAD)) Prof. Altraides to the Dacelts; (Consultant Dermatologist, Lagos University Teaching Hospital, LUTH) Dr. Ayesha Akinkugbe; and (Consultant Dermatologist, Federal Medical Center, Keffi) Dr. Gboyega Olarinoye; at the official launch of the NAD Anti-Skin Bleaching Campaign, hosted by Eucerin, held at the LUTH Dermatology Clinic, LUTH Annex, 24, Harvey Road, Yaba on 5th February 2026.
The Nigerian Association of Dermatologists expressed its deep appreciation Eucerin to support this nationwide advocacy effort. NAD also acknowledged the contributions NAFDAC and Federal Ministry of Healthhailing the Ministry’s recent regulations to guide the safe use of cosmetics in Nigeria as a “timely and critical step in enhancing consumer safety across the country.”
Emphasizing the need for collective action, prof. Altraide emphasized,
“This is a clarion call to everyone to play a role in stopping this skin bleaching epidemic that has taken center stage in our society.” He called on pharmacists and regulatory agencies to ensure that harmful bleaching agents are not readily available over the counter and called on the media to amplify accurate information that reframes a long-standing false narrative that has labeled naturally dark skin as inferior.
Reiterating his message to Nigerians, NAD urged the public to prioritize their health and self-confidence.
“To our dear Nigerians, it is important to emphasize that skin bleaching is a harmful practice that should be avoided. Your natural skin color is the best for you. Embrace it,” Prof said. Altraide.
What’s next? The campaign will use public education, professional leadership and extensive media engagement to raise awareness of the dangers of skin bleaching and promote national pride in natural skin tones. NAD urged the public to seek qualified medical attention for skin problems, ensure the use of scientifically and clinically supported solutions and avoid harmful whitening products. “Skin health is important. Skin care is a responsibility. You were born in this shade; you own your shade. Embrace your skin,” Prof. concluded. Altraide.
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