A Dermatologist, Prof. Olayinka Olasode, has warned Nigerians against skin bleaching, saying that a bleached skin is prone to skin cancer and other diseases.
Olasode, a professor of Dermatology at the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital, Ile-Ife, gave the warning in an interview with News Agency of Nigeria on Wednesday.
She said that skin lightening creams contained steroid and hydroquinone which have adverse effects on the skin.
She further said that those who engaged in bleaching could also suffer hypertension and diabetes, among other health conditions, including the colour of their nails turning brown.
According to her, those who engage in skin bleaching usually have body odour, experience profuse sweating, hot feelings and discomfort during the dry season.
The professor further said that the original skin of every human being was for body protection, adding that such skin would lose this function to protect the body once bleached.
Olasode said: “We are naturally protected by the original skin. A bleached skin is prone to cancer and other diseases because the chemical used has removed the protection from the skin.’’
She underscored the need to educate people on how to take care of their skin.
She said: “God has a reason for creating us the way it pleases Him. We must cherish our skin, be it black, chocolate, brown or light complexion.
“It is the lack of contentment and understanding that makes our people use various means to change their skin colour. Those involved, do so to their detriment.’’
The dermatologist advised against such practice and recommended the use of ordinary soap and cream on their skin.
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