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Skin lightening and its complications among African people living in Paris
Antoine Petit1, Cécile Cohen-Ludmann, Philippe Clevenbergh
1Dermatology Service, Hôpital Saint Louis, Paris, France. antoine.petit@sls.aphp.fr
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.
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