In a recent interview, Dr. Olufolakemi Cole-Adeife, a renowned dermatologist and member of the Nigerian Association of Dermatologists, spoke out against the practice of lightening or toning children’s skin, deeming it as a form of child abuse that can cause severe damage to internal organs. Dr. Cole-Adeife emphasized that all skin colors are beautiful and should not be tampered with for any reason.

According to Dr. Cole-Adeife, the color of a child’s skin is determined by their genetic makeup, and it is natural for their skin tone to darken as they grow and are exposed to sunlight. She expressed concern over the increasing number of parents, particularly mothers, who mix mercury or steroid-containing tube creams with their children’s products in an attempt to make their skin appear fairer.

Dr. Cole-Adeife strongly condemned this practice, stating, “Mothers, please do not project your insecurities about your skin onto your babies or children. I have witnessed many parents saying, ‘My baby was very fair when I gave birth to her, but now she is getting dark.’ An infant’s skin color will inevitably change as they grow, and this is entirely normal.”

The dermatologist warned that bleaching a child’s skin can have long-term complications that hinder their normal growth. Children’s skin is thinner and absorbs more substances compared to adults, making them more susceptible to the harmful effects of skin lightening creams. Dr. Cole-Adeife urged mothers to use plain skincare products for their children and to avoid creams that claim to offer glowing, toning, lightening, or fairness benefits.

She also called on the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control to enforce stricter regulations on children’s skincare products, advocating for a ban on skin lightening creams for children.

The use of such creams can lead to serious health issues, including brain and kidney impairment, hormonal disruptions, and internal organ damage. Dr. Cole-Adeife stressed the importance of protecting children from the harmful effects of these products, stating, “You do not want to be dealing with the side effects of skin bleaching in someone who is less than six years old. This is a grave matter, and I believe mothers love their children and would not want to cause them harm.”

It is crucial to prioritize the well-being and natural beauty of children, avoiding any harmful practices that can jeopardize their health and development. Dr. Cole-Adeife’s plea serves as a reminder that children’s skincare should prioritize safety and protection, rather than conforming to societal beauty standards that perpetuate harmful beliefs.

NAN