How bleaching creams can cause cancer, glaucoma, liver damage – Expert
A Consultant Dermatologist at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH), Dr. Fa’iza Sadauki Kibiya, has raised concern over the increasing trend of skin bleaching in Nigeria, describing it as a public health crisis that is fast spreading among both women and men.
In an exclusive interview with SolaceBase TV, Dr. Fa’iza, one of the only five certified dermatologists in Kano State, said the practice of using bleaching soaps, oils, and even injections to lighten the skin is dangerous and carries long-term health consequences.
“Skin is the largest and most visible organ of the human body. It is not just about appearance—it’s the first line of defense and can indicate internal health problems,” she said.
She further added that, “What we are seeing today is very disturbing. Many women, and increasingly men, are using harmful substances to alter their natural skin tone just to look more attractive.”
According to Dr. Fa’iza, bleaching products often contain harmful chemicals like steroids and hydroquinone that damage the skin’s protective layers, blood vessels and internal organs over time.
“Some of these bleaching oils were originally manufactured as medicinal products meant to treat specific conditions.
“Unfortunately, non-professionals in the market mix them with other chemicals to create cosmetic products that are now sold as skin lightening solutions,” she revealed.
She added that prolonged use of such products has been linked to serious health complications, including glaucoma (commonly referred to as eye hypertension), liver damage, and even heart-related issues.
“You may not realize it immediately. But by the time you start experiencing symptoms—maybe liver problems or eye pressure—and you visit the hospital, it’s then you realize it’s due to the bleaching oil you’ve been applying for years,” she explained.
Dr. Fa’iza also warned that the unregulated use of bleaching products can significantly weaken the skin, increase susceptibility to infections, and in extreme cases, cause skin cancer.
“Skin cancer is real, and some of these chemicals, especially when used over a long period, can trigger cancerous changes in skin cells,” she warned.
She urged the public to pay close attention to any changes in their skin, avoid self-medication, and seek professional advice from certified dermatologists.
She noted that there are now over 3,000 recognized skin conditions, many of which are exacerbated by poor skin practices.
“People should take care of their skin. Drink plenty of water, use natural moisturizers or skin-friendly oils. In fact, many men don’t apply oil or moisturizer to their skin at all, and that has its own consequences. Your skin needs hydration and care, just like any other organ,” she said.
Dr. Fa’iza also called for intensified public education campaigns on the dangers of skin bleaching and to regulate the production and sale of cosmetic products across markets.
“This is no longer just a beauty concern—it’s a growing health threat,” she concluded.
A Consultant Dermatologist at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Dr. Fa’iza Sadauki Kibiya, has raised concern over the increasing trend of skin bleaching in Nigeria, describing it as a public health crisis that is fast spreading among both women and men.
In an exclusive interview with SolaceBase TV, Dr. Fa’iza, one of the only five certified dermatologists in Kano State, said the practice of using bleaching soaps, oils, and even injections to lighten the skin is dangerous and carries long-term health consequences.
“Skin is the largest and most visible organ of the human body. It is not just about appearance—it’s the first line of defense and can indicate internal health problems,” she said.
She further added, “What we are seeing today is very disturbing. Many women, and increasingly men, are using harmful substances to alter their natural skin tone just to look more attractive.”
According to Dr. Fa’iza, bleaching products often contain harmful chemicals like steroids and hydroquinone that damage the skin’s protective layers, blood vessels and internal organs over time.
“Some of these bleaching oils were originally manufactured as medicinal products meant to treat specific conditions.
“Unfortunately, non-professionals in the market mix them with other chemicals to create cosmetic products that are now sold as skin lightening solutions,” she revealed.
She added that prolonged use of such products has been linked to serious health complications, including glaucoma (commonly referred to as eye hypertension), liver damage, and even heart-related issues.
“You may not realize it immediately. But by the time you start experiencing symptoms—maybe liver problems or eye pressure—and you visit the hospital, it’s then that you realize it’s due to the bleaching oil you’ve been applying for years,” she explained.
Dr. Fa’iza also warned that the unregulated use of bleaching products can significantly weaken the skin, increase susceptibility to infections, and in extreme cases, cause skin cancer.
“Skin cancer is real, and some of these chemicals, especially when used over a long period, can trigger cancerous changes in skin cells,” she warned.
She urged the public to pay close attention to any changes in their skin, avoid self-medication, and seek professional advice from certified dermatologists.
She noted that there are now over 3,000 recognized skin conditions, many of which are exacerbated by poor skin practices.
“People should take care of their skin. Drink plenty of water, use natural moisturizers or skin-friendly oils. In fact, many men don’t apply oil or moisturizer to their skin at all, and that has its own consequences. Your skin needs hydration and care, just like any other organ,” she said.
Dr. Fa’iza also called for intensified public education campaigns on the dangers of skin bleaching and to regulate the production and sale of cosmetic products across markets.
“This is no longer just a beauty concern—it’s a growing health threat,” she concluded.
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