Health
Prioritise skin health over toning, dermatologists tell Nigerians
Idowu Abdullahi
Dermatologists have urged Nigerians to prioritise healthy skin over skin toning, warning that the growing pursuit of lighter complexions is exposing many people to avoidable skin damage.
The skin specialists under the aegis of the Nigerian Association of Dermatologists explained that the indiscriminate use of skin-lightening products, especially those containing harmful substances such as mercury, hydroquinone, and potent steroids, can weaken the skin’s protective barrier.
Aside from weakening the skin’s protective barrier, they said it can also increase the risk of infections, permanent skin damage, and other complications.
The DAN’s Team Lead of Skin Health Project, Dr Folakemi Cole-Adeife, stressed that healthy skin is not determined by its colour but by proper care and overall well-being.
Speaking in commemoration of World Skin Health Day, Cole-Adeife, a Consultant Physician and Dermatologist at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Ikeja, advised Nigerians to adopt simple skincare routines and seek professional guidance before using cosmetic products.
“Healthy, beautiful skin comes in all skin colours. Let us prioritise skin health over skin tone, knowledge over misinformation, and prevention over cure. Together, through better knowledge, we can achieve better skin health for all,” she said.
Celebrated yearly on July 8, World Skin Health Day is used to raise awareness of skin diseases and promote healthy skin practices. This year’s theme is “Better Knowledge, Better Skin Health”.
Cole-Adeife, a member of the DAN’s Publicity Committee, stressed that healthy skin depends more on appropriate care and informed product choices than on the number of products applied.
“Healthy skin does not require harsh products or unnecessary cosmetic procedures. Simple daily practices—including gentle cleansing, regular moisturising, sun protection, prompt treatment of skin conditions, and avoiding unregulated products—can significantly improve skin health,” she said.
The dermatologist urged Nigerians to obtain skincare information from qualified healthcare professionals rather than relying on misinformation circulating on social media or advice from unqualified vendors.
“Persistent rashes, non-healing wounds, changing moles, severe itching, unexplained skin colour changes, or other persistent skin problems should be assessed by trained healthcare providers,” she said.
The specialist said many skin problems are now linked to the misuse of skin-lightening products.
“These products can damage the skin’s natural barrier and lead to infections, acne, severe pigmentation disorders, and other long-term complications,” she said.
According to her, many skin diseases can be prevented through simple healthy habits that include keeping the skin clean without over-washing or using harsh products, and moisturising regularly to maintain the skin barrier.
Others, she said, include protecting the skin from excessive sun exposure by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and using sunscreen where appropriate.
She also advised Nigerians to avoid sharing personal items such as towels and razors, seek prompt treatment for skin infections, and maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle.
“Healthy skin is not about having lighter skin; it is about having skin that functions well and is free from disease,” she said.
Cole-Adeife also urged Nigerians to think about skin health beyond skin colour.
“For too long, many people have associated healthy skin with lighter skin. In reality, healthy skin comes in every shade. Our natural skin colour is determined by genetics and should be celebrated rather than altered using harmful chemicals,” she said.
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