The International League of Dermatological Societies (ILDS) has formed a working group of experts to fight against global skin bleaching. The group’s establishment aims to differentiate between the dangers of skin bleaching and advocate for dermatologically backed interventions for pigmentation disorders. The group says skin bleaching products are becoming more internationally popular, and users are becoming younger.
The ILDS group frames skin bleaching as a major public health problem that affects millions of people. It cites a study that found in Nigeria (75%), Senegal (50%), and North India (60%), the majority of female study participants reported using skin-lightening products.
However, while skin bleaching has existed for many years as a so-called aspirational beauty practice, the working group warns that more teenagers, and in some areas, children and infants are being subjected to it. Men are also increasingly using skin bleaching products.
