The Federal Government has expressed concern about the proliferation of unregulated skin-bleaching products in the country, saying most contain harmful substances that pose significant health risks to Nigerians.
This came as the government disclosed ongoing plans to develop and implement a comprehensive national policy for tropical skincare to protect the health and well-being of Nigerians.
Director-General of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), Prof. Nnanyelugo M. Ike-Muonso, raised the concern on Friday at the signing of the implementation agreement between the agency and the Tropical Derma Research and Training Institute in Abuja.
Ike-Muonso said that Nigeria’s tropical climate presents unique challenges for skincare, maintaining that these challenges have been met with inadequate and sometimes dangerous products.
He lamented the proliferation of unregulated skin-bleaching products, which he said often contain harmful carcinogenic substances that are unhealthy for the population.
“Many of these products contain dangerous ingredients such as hydroquinone and steroids, leading to irreversible skin damage, hormonal imbalances, and other serious health issues,” he said. “The rise in the use of such harmful products, particularly among women, calls for immediate action, and our partnership aims to provide safer, scientifically backed alternatives. This is an issue that the Nigerian government is deeply committed to resolving, and our collaboration with the Tropical Derma Research Institute brings us closer to achieving this goal.”
He stressed that the agency’s commitment to innovation and consumer safety would ensure the creation of products that not only cater to the nation’s tropical needs but also set a high standard of quality and safety across the industry.
The RMRDC boss, however, observed that the challenge is not just about product development but also about transforming the entire skincare landscape in Nigeria.
He said the partnership with the Tropical Derma Research and Training Institute is in line with President Bola Tinubu’s 8-point agenda to promote innovation, protect public health, and support economic growth.
According to him, the government recognizes the tremendous opportunity that lies in combining expertise to develop innovative, safe, and effective skincare products tailored specifically to the needs of the Nigerian people.
“That is why we are working closely with the Ministry of Innovation and other relevant stakeholders to develop and implement a comprehensive national policy for tropical skincare. Such a policy will ensure the highest standards are maintained, promote and valorize the use of our local raw materials, and ultimately protect the health and well-being of all Nigerians,” he stated.
“What we are embarking on today is truly transformative. It is about setting new benchmarks for quality, safety, and sustainability. It is about ensuring that the people of Nigeria have access to skincare products that are both effective and safe. And it is about fostering economic growth by creating opportunities for local industries and empowering our communities.
“Additionally, this collaboration will include training local professionals—such as beauticians, estheticians, medical professionals, and pharmacists—in tropical dermatology and cosmeceutical sciences, thereby raising the skill level across the industry and ensuring the safe treatment of consumers.
“Through this partnership, we aim to leverage the incredible potential of Nigeria’s raw materials to develop sustainable and scientifically backed skincare solutions.”
Founder of the Tropical Derma Research and Training Institute, Dr. Edith Gibson, lamented the absence of products crafted specifically for the needs of people in the tropics.
According to her, many women in the community struggle with products that simply do not meet their needs and usually feel that their skin is the problem, adding that this was not just a matter of personal frustration but an issue that required scientific inquiry and thoughtful solutions.
She said the institute has the mandate to conduct research and develop products that truly cater to the needs of tropical skin.
Gibson noted that the agreement with the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology marked a significant milestone in the quest to reshape the skincare landscape in Nigeria and beyond.
She said, “This collaboration is not merely about product development; it is a commitment to public health and safety. Our first target? The dangerous practice of skin bleaching, which has long posed threats to the health and self-esteem of many in our communities. But our ultimate goal is broader: to promote holistic skin health for all.
“As part of this agreement, TORTI will equip beauty entrepreneurs and health workers with the skills they need to deliver effective, science-based treatments. This initiative will not only empower professionals in our industry but also stimulate our economy, creating jobs and fostering innovation.”
