Depigmentation: risk of skin cancer

---

Extract from the article: A widespread practice in Africa, the voluntary depigmentation of the skin, commonly called « bleaching », is a real public health problem. Motivated by aesthetic and socio-cultural considerations, it nonetheless exposes millions of people to serious

---

A widespread practice in Africa, the voluntary depigmentation of the skin, commonly called « bleaching », is a real public health problem. Motivated by aesthetic and socio-cultural considerations, it nonetheless exposes millions of people to serious risks, including skin cancer.

According to data relayed by the World Health Organization (WHO), in sub-Saharan Africa, 25 to 96% of women use voluntary depigmentation products, with even higher rates in some countries such as Nigeria (77%). In Togo, one of the best-known scientific studies, published in 1998 in the journal Médecine d'Afrique Noire, focused on 910 women aged 15 to 56 years in Lomé. It revealed that 536 women, or 58.9%, used depigmenting products. These products work by reducing the production of melanin, a natural pigment that protects the skin from ultraviolet rays.

Products that are hazardous to health

The most commonly used substances in depigmenting products are hydroquinone, corticosteroids and mercurials. Although effective in lightening the skin, these components are associated with many side effects.

Among the most common consequences are thinning of the skin, skin infections, irreversible stretch marks, hormonal and metabolic disorders. Among female users in Lomé, 69.2% had dermatological side effects: severe acne, stretch marks, skin infections, black spots and delayed healing. Prolonged use can also lead to destruction of melanocytes, cells responsible for pigmentation.

Depigmentation and skin cancer

Melanin plays an essential role as a natural barrier against UV rays. Its reduction makes the skin much more vulnerable to external aggressions.

Several studies and clinical observations in Africa show that depigmentation significantly increases the risk of skin cancer and promotes the development of carcinomas, particularly epidermoid ones.

In black skin, 38% of skin cancers were favored by artificial depigmentation. The latter having caused a destruction of the immune defenses doubly exposes the skin to climatic attacks and the development of cancer cells. According to the International Association for Artificial Depigmentation Information (AIIDA), seven types of squamous cell carcinoma have already been identified as resulting from artificial depigmentation using hydroquinone and corticosteroids.

By weakening the skin, these products also facilitate chronic lesions, which can evolve into cancerous forms.

Psychological and social consequences

Beyond the physical effects, depigmentation can lead to product dependence, altered self-image, psychological disorders and even depression. This phenomenon is part of a context of social pressure that values fair skin.

An urgent public health issue

Faced with the increase in cases of complications, experts call for increased public awareness and better regulation of cosmetic products. We must encourage the acceptance of the diversity of complexions

Depigmentation, far from being a mere aesthetic choice, is a preventable risk factor for skin cancer in Africa. Informing and preventing remain the best weapons to protect people’s health.

Raymond DZAKPATA (Source: « International Association for Information on Artificial Depigmentation » (AIIDA)