By Bisi Bamishe
Below is interview with Dr Folakemi Cole-Adeife, Consultant Physician and Dermatologist, Lagos State Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) on 2026 World Skin Health Day. Theme for this year is : Better Knowledge, Better Skin Health..
1.Question : What are the causes of skin diseases?
Answer : Skin diseases have many different causes. Some are caused by infections such as bacteria, fungi, viruses, or parasites. Others result from allergic reactions, genetic conditions, immune system disorders, environmental exposures, excessive sun exposure, or certain medications. Lifestyle factors such as poor hygiene, smoking, unhealthy diets, stress, and inappropriate skincare practices can also contribute.
Importantly, many skin problems are now linked to the misuse of skin-lightening products containing harmful ingredients such as potent steroids, mercury, and high concentrations of hydroquinone. These products can damage the skin’s natural barrier and lead to infections, acne, severe pigmentation disorders, and other long-term complications.
2. Question:What are the preventions of skin diseases?
Answer: Skin diseases can be prevented through simple healthy habits.These include:
▪︎ Keeping the skin clean without over-washing or using harsh products.
▪︎ Moisturising regularly to maintain the skin barrier.
▪︎ Protecting the skin from excessive sun exposure by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and using sunscreen where appropriate.
▪︎ Avoiding the sharing of personal items such as towels and razors.
▪︎ Seeking prompt treatment for skin infections.
▪︎ Maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle. Eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables and minimize sugar, and refined or processed foods.
Most importantly, avoiding the use of harmful skin-bleaching products and seeking advice from qualified healthcare professionals before using products that promise to lighten the skin.
Healthy skin is not about having lighter skin, it is about having skin that functions well and is free from disease.
3. Questions: What are the signs and symptoms of skin diseases?
Answer :Skin diseases can present in many different ways depending on the condition.
Common warning signs include:
▪︎ Persistent itching.
▪︎ Rashes.
▪︎ Changes in skin colour.
▪︎ Painful or painless swellings.
▪︎ Sores that do not heal.
▪︎ Scaling or peeling skin.
▪︎ Acne or pus-filled bumps.
▪︎ Hair loss.
▪︎ Changes in the nails.
▪︎ Excessive dryness or cracking.
Any skin problem that persists for several weeks, worsens despite treatment, or is associated with fever, pain, or rapid spread should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
4. Question :What is the possible treatment for skin diseases?
Answer :Treatment depends entirely on the specific skin condition.
Some skin diseases require creams or ointments, while others need tablets, injections, or specialised procedures. Infections require appropriate antimicrobial treatment, while inflammatory conditions such as eczema or psoriasis need different medications altogether.
The most important message is that people should avoid self-medication, especially using steroid-containing creams or unregulated skin-lightening products purchased without medical advice. These products may temporarily improve symptoms while causing serious long-term damage and making the underlying disease more difficult to treat.
Early diagnosis by a qualified healthcare professional leads to better outcomes and prevents complications.
5. Questions: The campaign about skin health, what is new that you will like Nigerians to know for their good for sound skin health?
This year’s campaign encourages Nigerians to think about skin health beyond skin colour.
For too long, many people have associated healthy skin with lighter skin. In reality, healthy skin comes in every shade. Our natural skin colour is determined by genetics and should be celebrated rather than altered using harmful chemicals.
The campaign also highlights that skin diseases are among the most common health conditions worldwide, yet many are preventable or treatable when recognised early. We are encouraging Nigerians to protect their skin through healthy skincare practices, seek reliable information from healthcare professionals, and reject misinformation and unrealistic beauty standards promoted on social media.
Our message is simple: Healthy skin is beautiful skin—regardless of skin colour.
6. Question : The theme for this year’s World Skin Health Day is “Better Knowledge, Better Skin Health.” What is this theme passing across?
Answer : The theme reminds us that knowledge is one of the most powerful tools for preventing skin diseases.
When people understand how to care for their skin, recognise early warning signs, protect themselves from harmful practices, and know when to seek medical attention, they are far more likely to maintain healthy skin and avoid complications.
Unfortunately, myths and misinformation about skincare are widespread, especially online. This year’s theme encourages everyone to rely on evidence-based information from qualified healthcare professionals rather than social media trends or unverified claims.
Better knowledge empowers individuals, families, communities, and policymakers to make healthier choices and improve skin health for everyone.
7. Question : What is your advice to Nigerians concerning skin diseases?
Answer : My advice is to treat your skin as an important part of your overall health.
Do not ignore persistent skin problems or rely solely on advice from friends, social media, or unqualified vendors. Seek help early from trained healthcare professionals because many skin diseases can be treated successfully when diagnosed promptly.
Avoid harmful skin-bleaching products and products with unknown ingredients. Embrace your natural skin colour and focus instead on maintaining healthy skin through gentle cleansing, regular moisturising, sun protection, good nutrition, and healthy lifestyle habits.
Finally, let us challenge the belief that beauty depends on skin colour. Every Nigerian deserves healthy skin, dignity, and confidence regardless of their complexion.
This World Skin Health Day, our message is clear: Healthy beautiful skin comes in all skin colours. Let us protect and nurture our skin, whatever colour it is, and not try to change it.
