Awareness of skin lightening products and motivators of their use among Makurdi residents attending Dermatology Clinic in North Central Nigeria

Background: Skin lightening remains a common practice despite its documented risk. Most patients are unaware of their harmful effects, and even when they become aware the desire to lighten the skin supersedes. This behavior is driven by perceptions linking lighter skin with beauty, social status, or racial identity. This study assessed awareness and motivators for using skin lightening agents (SLAs) among Makurdi residents working or attending Federal Medical Centre, Benue State, Nigeria. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from June 21 to August 30, 2023, using a pretested self-administered questionnaire and convenience sampling. Participants included patients, relatives, secondary school pupils, and healthcare workers. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25, with significance set at p