No medical justification for skin bleaching – Dermatologist warns of rising complications in Ghana

A leading Ghanaian dermatologist has issued a renewed public health warning against skin bleaching, describing the practice as medically unjustifiable and increasingly linked to serious dermatological and systemic complications across the country.

Speaking during a media engagement, Dr Kofi Ansah Brifo, Founder of Skin Foundation Africa, emphasised that skin bleaching is far from a harmless cosmetic trend. Instead, it represents a growing clinical concern within dermatology practice in Ghana.

“There is no medical justification for skin bleaching,” he stated, underscoring that many patients now present with preventable and often irreversible complications.

According to Dr Brifo, dermatology clinics are witnessing a rise in cases associated with chronic use of potent topical corticosteroids, mercury-containing products, and unregulated depigmenting agents.

Common complications include:

•Steroid-induced skin atrophy

•Exogenous ochronosis

•Refractory acne

•Persistent fungal and bacterial infections

•Delayed wound healing

Beyond cutaneous damage, systemic consequences are also being documented. These include hypertension, adrenal suppression, and steroid-induced diabetes mellitus—conditions arising from prolonged exposure to high-potency corticosteroids and other harmful substances.

“These outcomes reflect the physiological consequences of chronic exposure to unsafe compounds,” he explained. “What begins as a cosmetic decision may evolve into a complex medical condition requiring long-term management.”

Dr Brifo highlighted that many individuals—particularly adolescents and young adults—are influenced by sociocultural pressures, aesthetic ideals, and evolving beauty trends. An emerging concern includes bleaching practices intended to enhance tattoo visibility.

He stressed that such decisions often stem from misinformation rather than evidence-based medical advice.

“Those affected deserve compassion and clinical care—not judgement,” he noted. “This is a matter of health literacy and societal influence, not simply personal choice.”

In response to the growing burden, Skin Foundation Africa established the Skin Bleaching Recovery Programme, an initiative focused on evidence-based treatment, patient education, and restoration of skin integrity.

The programme provides structured dermatological management for affected individuals while promoting awareness of the long-term health risks associated with bleaching.

This local initiative aligns with the global advocacy efforts of the International League of Dermatological Societies (ILDS), which continues to reinforce international campaigns against unsafe bleaching practices.

Health experts argue that skin bleaching must be recognised as more than a cosmetic concern. It intersects with public health policy, regulatory oversight, and professional responsibility.

Stronger enforcement against unregulated products, improved public education, and expanded access to specialist dermatological care have been identified as critical components of prevention.

“Dermatology exists not to alter identity,” Dr. Brifo concluded, “but to protect health, restore function, and preserve dignity.”

As Ghana continues to confront the clinical and societal dimensions of skin bleaching, stakeholders across healthcare, regulatory bodies, and media are being called upon to prioritise coordinated action.

Healing, as experts remind us, goes beyond the skin.