BACKGROUND: Complications caused by skin lightening practices have not been systematically studied in Europe. OBJECTIVE: Our aim was to assess the complications of skin lightening among people of African descent living in Paris. METHODS: This was a descriptive study. All patients presenting with complications from skin lightening procedures underwent a complete clinical examination and were questioned about their practice. RESULTS: Forty-six patients from various African countries (39 women, 7 men) presented with skin changes suggestive of side effects from skin lightening practices. The complications seemed mainly related to the use of clobetasol and hydroquinone. LIMITATIONS: The selection bias does not allow assessment of uncomplicated skin lightening. CONCLUSION: Complications arising from skin lightening practices represent a significant health problem for people of African descent living in Paris.
BACKGROUND: Complications caused by skin lightening practices have not been systematically studied in Europe. OBJECTIVE: Our aim was to assess the complications of skin lightening among people of African descent living in Paris. METHODS: This was a descriptive study. All patients presenting with complications from skin lightening procedures underwent a complete clinical examination and were questioned about their practice. RESULTS: Forty-six patients from various African countries (39 women, 7 men) presented with skin changes suggestive of side effects from skin lightening practices. The complications seemed mainly related to the use of clobetasol and hydroquinone. LIMITATIONS: The selection bias does not allow assessment of uncomplicated skin lightening. CONCLUSION: Complications arising from skin lightening practices represent a significant health problem for people of African descent living in Paris.
Authors: Mukhtar A Yusuf; Nicma D Mahmoud; Farhan R Rirash; Benjamin K Stoff; Yuan Liu; Josette R McMichael Journal: Int J Womens Dermatol Date: 2019-08-23