By Precious Amadi
Medical experts are urging Nigerians to prioritize skin care and shun unqualified practitioners to combat the rising burden of skin diseases across the country.
The call to action was delivered at the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital (RSUTH) during an event commemorating the 2026 World Skin Health Day. This year’s global campaign was held under the theme, “Better Knowledge, Better Skin Health,” emphasizing the critical role public education plays in preventing skin conditions and fostering healthier communities.
Professor Chizindu Alikor, the Chief Medical Director of RSUTH, stressed that the skin requires the exact same medical attention and care as any other vital organ in the human body.
“Skin diseases continue to affect a significant number of people, making early diagnosis and treatment essential,” Alikor stated. He noted that RSUTH provides comprehensive dermatology services, including advanced diagnosis, treatment, and research, and urged the public to leverage the hospital’s expertise at the first sign of skin abnormalities.
Adding to the call, the President of the Nigerian Association of Dermatologists, Professor Dasetima Altraide, took aim at the rise of unqualified skincare providers. Altraide demanded stricter government policies to root out quackery in dermatological practice.
He strongly warned the public against self-medication and patronizing uncertified vendors, advising anyone with persistent skin irritation or unusual symptoms to consult a certified dermatologist for proper care.
