Voluntary Skin Depigmentation in Abidjan: Toxicological Implications of Skin Lightening Products

Voluntary skin depigmentation is a widespread social and cosmetic practice in sub-Saharan Africa. Although motivated by the pursuit of a lighter complexion, it exposes users to numerous dermatological and systemic complications. In Côte d’Ivoire, a survey conducted in Abidjan in 2008 reported a prevalence of 53%. This study aimed to assess voluntary depigmentation practices, the types of products employed, reported adverse effects, and the level of awareness of associated risks among users. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was carried out from January to March 2019 among 150 patients recruited from five private pharmacies in Abidjan. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire addressing sociodemographic charac-teristics, motivations, products used, adverse effects, and perception of risks. Results were analyzed using frequency and per-centage distributions. The sample consisted predominantly of women (93%), aged 20-40 years. The main motivation was the desire for a beautiful complexion (78%). The most frequently used substances were corticosteroids (38%) and hydroquinone (33%). 94% of participants were unaware of the exact composition of the products applied. Although 35% vaguely acknowl-edged potential dangers, their overall knowledge of complications remained poor. Twenty-five percent of the study population reported adverse effects voluntary skin. An integrated strategy combining health edu-cation, stricter regulatory measures, and the active involvement of pharmacists is urgently required to mitigate the prevalence and consequences of this practice.