The International League of Dermatological Societies (ILDS) has established a Strategic Working Group on Skin Bleaching to address the growing global public health threat posed by harmful skin lightening practices.
University of KwaZulu-Natal’s (UKZN) Head of Dermatology, Professor Ncoza Dlova, has been appointed Chair of the Working Group.
A globally respected dermatologist and long-standing advocate for skin health, Dlova will lead an international team of experts in developing evidence-based strategies to combat the widespread use of unsafe skin bleaching products while promoting healthy skin in all its natural shades.
The initiative comes amid growing concern over the increasing prevalence of skin bleaching across Africa, Asia, the Middle East, the Caribbean and diaspora communities, where socio-cultural pressures continue to drive demand for lighter skin tones. Studies estimate that approximately 75% of women in Nigeria use skin lightening products regularly, while the practice affects around 50% of women in Senegal and 60% of participants in studies conducted in North India.
Dlova said the growing popularity of skin bleaching had reached alarming levels. “The practice of skin lightening is increasing rapidly around the world to the extent that it is now a serious but unrecognised public health burden. Our Working Group brings a multidisciplinary approach to this complex and challenging problem and will deliver structured, evidence-based action and advocacy,” she said.
“We will work with communities to raise awareness of the importance of skin health to overall wellbeing and deliver the clear message that healthy skin comes in every shade.”
Dlova emphasised that the campaign also acknowledges the legitimate concerns of people living with hyperpigmentation disorders.
“We recognise that hyperpigmentation disorders are a significant concern for many individuals with darker skin tones and can impact their quality of life and self-confidence. Our campaign advocates for safe, evidence-based treatments and informed choices, while raising awareness of the dangers of unregulated and harmful skin bleaching products,” she said.
The Working Group has expressed particular concern over evidence showing that skin bleaching products are increasingly being used by adolescents and, in some settings, even young children. Reports also suggest that the practice is becoming more common among men.
Many skin bleaching products remain poorly regulated and are often sold without medical supervision. Their use has been linked to serious health risks, including permanent skin damage, steroid-related complications, exposure to toxic chemicals and an increased risk of developing skin cancer.
To address these concerns, the Working Group has launched The ILDS Movement for Safe Skin – Challenging Harmful Skin Lightening Practices, a global awareness campaign aimed at educating communities about the dangers of skin bleaching while encouraging safer, evidence-based skincare practices.
ILDS President, Professor Henry W Lim, said the formation of the Working Group represents a significant milestone in the organisation’s efforts to change perceptions around skin colour and promote healthy skin.
“The establishment of the ILDS Strategic Working Group on Skin Bleaching is the next step in our long-term campaign to drive meaningful change in perceptions of what healthy skin looks like and to ensure that everyone values the skin they live in,” said Lim.
Words: MaryAnn Francis
Photograph: Supplied