Knowledge, Concept, and Practices of Skin Bleaching in Northeastern Nigeria

Background: Skin bleaching and the use of hazardous and potent substances have been linked to a range of adverse effects, from skin diseases to serious systemic problems such as diabetes, hypertension and renal diseases. Skin bleaching has become a public health concern, even though the importation and marketing of skin-bleaching products are banned or strictly regulated in many countries. Skin bleaching seems to have become common in different communities across Nigeria. It appears that the local communities in the northeastern region of Nigeria are seriously unaware of the possible risks related to the usage of bleaching products. Aim: The purpose of the study was to ascertain adults’ knowledge, beliefs, and practices of skin bleaching in northeastern Nigeria.

Methods: It was a cross-sectional descriptive study that employed the multistage sampling procedure and the use of Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS) to analyze the data.

Results: It was found that skin bleaching was quite common in northeastern Nigeria. Nearly half of the respondents were not aware of the long-term hazards or negative consequences, as well as the ingredients in the skin-bleaching agents. The respondents believed that the main reason why people bleach their skin was to appear more appealing to catch their partners’ attention as well as to improve their social statuses. They also believed that bleaching the skin improved their chances of getting suitors and jobs. The primary motivation behind skin bleaching was to enhance one’s physical attractiveness in order to capture the attention of their significant other. Additionally, they thought that bleaching one's skin would raise one’s social standing and bring luck in the form of potential mates or job opportunities. The majority said that while darker complexion could be less beautiful than lighter skin, but not necessarily inferior.

Conclusion: Despite the risks posed by ignorance and false ideas, the use of skin bleaching products was found to be widespread among the populations mostly because of a strong desire for attractive appearance, attraction, and high social status.

Government agencies, partners, and other relevant stakeholders along with the stakeholders among the local community members including religious and traditional leaders should take steps to protect the public from the menace of the skin-bleaching agents through legislation, education and all other possible innovative means. Companies should consider safety measures strictly in their productions.