By Nafisatu Olayinka Deen
Freetown, 24th November 2025- Cosmetic products are part of daily life for many people, yet a troubling number contain chemicals that pose serious health risks and can wage war on the skin. For some, the pursuit of a lighter complexion is a dream worth chasing, and body‑whitening creams are the chosen path. But behind the promise of brighter skin lies a hidden danger.
Aminata Osman knows this all too well. Her journey with skin bleaching began at just 16, when her aunt introduced her to a cream that promised quick results. “At first the product worked like magic, but after a few weeks my skin began to peel and my face was changed. It was a nightmare because the product burnt my face, and years later I still struggle with the scars,” she told Truth Media.
For Alimamy Tarawalie, the story is similar. Naturally light‑skinned, he experimented with body creams to maintain smooth, healthy skin. Instead, he faced harsh reactions. “I think it is because most retailers sell expired products. The worst part is they tamper with the expiry date,” he said, describing what he sees as a troubling trend in the market.
Unregulated Products, Hidden Risks- Many consumers use creams to smoothen, brighten, and revitalize their skin without checking the ingredients. Dr. John Mbeteh, a dermatologist, warns that most cosmetic products sold in local markets are unregulated and unsafe.
“Certain skin creams contain harmful chemicals such as steroids, hydroquinone, mercury, or other lightening agents. These unregulated products can cause short‑term health risks like burning skin, redness, itching, infections due to thinning, uneven tone, and pimples,” he explained.
The dangers grow with prolonged use. “Long‑term exposure can lead to exogenous ochronosis from hydroquinone, stretch marks, visible blood vessels, kidney damage from mercury, delayed wound healing, and even increased risk of skin cancer due to chronic sun damage and steroid use,” Dr. Mbeteh warned.
Calls for Regulation- Both Aminata and Alimamy believe stronger regulation is needed. “I wish these products were tested before they are allowed in the market,” Aminata said. Alimamy added that many retailers ignore storage instructions, exposing creams to sunlight despite warnings to keep them in cool, dry places.
Dr. Mbeteh advises consumers to be vigilant: “Check the ingredient list, ensure the product is approved by regulatory authorities like the pharmacy board, avoid misleading claims such as instant whitening, and examine packaging quality to steer clear of unsealed, repackaged, or unlabelled items.”
Lessons Learned- For Aminata and Alimamy, the scars and reactions are painful reminders of the risks. Their experiences highlight the urgent need for awareness and regulation. Yet many remain unaware and continue to repeat the same mistakes.
