• J Cutan Med Surg · Sep 2011

    Case Reports

    Toxic effects of skin-lightening products in Canadian immigrants.

    • Nisha Mistry, Jonathan Shapero, Roopal V Kundu, and Harvey Shapero.
    • Department of Dermatology and Skin Science, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC. nmistry@interchange.ubc.ca
    • J Cutan Med Surg. 2011 Sep 1; 15 (5): 254-8.

    BackgroundThe cultural practice of skin bleaching is highly prevalent in Africa. Most reported cases of toxic effects of skin-lightening products occur in this region.ObjectiveTo describe cases of misuse of over-the-counter (OTC) cosmetic skin-lightening products occurring in Canadian immigrants.MethodsTwo cases of Canadian immigrants with severe complications from OTC skin-bleaching agents were identified in a community-based dermatology practice in Toronto. The case histories were reviewed and analyzed.ResultsA 28-year-old African-Canadian woman developed extensive striae from long-term use of a topical cream containing clobetasol that she had purchased in a Caribbean health food store. A 55-year-old African-Canadian woman developed exogenous ochronosis from the use of a topical bleaching agent she had purchased in Ghana.ConclusionCosmetic skin lightening with unregulated topical products occurs in Canada. Dermatologists working in Canada need to be aware of this practice to provide appropriate directive care.

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