Original Research Article
Year: 2020 | Month: July | Volume: 10 | Issue: 7 | Pages: 253-260
Skin Lightening Among University Students: Knowledge, Attitudes and Reasons for Use
Perpetua U Ibekwe, Chinyere Okwuonu, Zainab Babba, Grace Otokpa, Bob A. Ukonu
Dermatology Unit, Department of Medicine, University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Gwagwalada, Abuja, Nigeria.
Corresponding Author: Perpetua U Ibekwe
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Skin lightening (SL) is considered a serious public health issue affecting the dark-skin population. There is a paucity of data on SL among university students in Nigeria. The aim of this study is to document the knowledge, attitudes and reasons for use of SL products among university students.
Methods: This was a cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey conducted among University of Abuja, Nigeria students. Information on sociodemographic characteristics, brand of skincare products used and reasons for use was sought. Market survey on the lightening agent and cost of skincare products was obtained and analysed.
Results: A total of 200 students completed a pre-tested questionnaire, 24 males and 176 females. Mean age was 21.5 ±4.6 years. Most of the students interviewed reside in-campus. The rates of use of SL soaps and body creams were 25.5% and 46%respectively. Males used more SL body creams than soaps. Students who used SL body creams are 2.6 times as likely to use lightening bath soap than students who do not use SL body creams (95% CI = 1.29, 5.11). Skin lightening product was mostly recommended by a friend. Only 19.6% of the students who used SL body creams have ever applied sunscreen lotions on body and face.
Conclusion: The use of SL products is quite popular among University of Abuja students. Friendship is a strong motivating factor that contributes to SL practice. Education on proper SL terminologies and importance of sunscreens use is necessary in our universities.
Key words: Skin lightening, skin bleaching, skincare products, university students, Abuja