Health professionals in Nigeria are sounding the alarm over the rising mental health toll of chronic skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, acne, vitiligo, and albinism. These skin disorders, experts say, are not just physical afflictions — they are also powerful psychological stressors that often lead to anxiety, low self-esteem, social withdrawal, and in extreme cases, depression and suicidal thoughts.

Mental health and dermatology specialists now insist that the emotional trauma triggered by visible skin conditions remains a dangerously overlooked public health issue, especially among young people.

The Psychological Cost of Skin Disorders

Speaking exclusively to Frontpage Health, mental health experts stressed that people living with chronic dermatological conditions are 60% more likely to experience symptoms of anxiety and depression than those without. According to Dr. Moses Adeolu, a psychiatrist at the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital in Aro, Abeokuta, skin diseases like eczema have long-term emotional consequences beyond their physical symptoms.

“These conditions affect how people see themselves and how society perceives them,” Dr. Adeolu explained. “Eczema causes severe itching, discomfort, and visible disfigurement, which often leads to embarrassment, social isolation, and long-term emotional distress. In Nigeria, the cultural misunderstanding and stigma around skin diseases only worsen the mental burden.”

He added that misconceptions—such as associating skin conditions with poor hygiene, spiritual attacks, or curses—fuel stigma and alienation, leading many sufferers to withdraw socially and emotionally.

Alarming Statistics Reflect Broader National Challenge

According to the World Health Organisation, skin diseases remain a significant contributor to the disease burden in Nigeria, ranking the country 90th globally in terms of age-adjusted death rates due to skin disorders. A study published in the Nigerian Journal of Dermatology found that eczema and other infections and infestations are the most common skin conditions in the country, with eczema alone accounting for 26.5% of diagnoses in dermatology clinics.

Experts argue that behind these statistics lies a far more insidious problem — the emotional and psychological damage that remains largely undocumented and untreated.

Emotional Scars Run Deep in a Judgmental Society

Dr. Adeolu warned that in a country like Nigeria — where physical appearance often shapes public perception — the psychological scars of skin diseases can be far more damaging than the visible symptoms.

“In our society, appearance is heavily scrutinised,” he said. “The moment someone has visible skin issues, they are subjected to mocking, suspicion, or outright rejection. The scars on the mind often take longer to heal than those on the skin.”

The psychiatrist called for a multidisciplinary approach to treating skin conditions, urging hospitals to incorporate mental health assessments in dermatology clinics. He also recommended a nationwide public awareness campaign to destigmatise skin disorders and educate the public about their psychological implications.

“It’s Not Just Skin Deep”: Dermatologist Speaks Out

Echoing Dr. Adeolu’s concerns, consultant dermatologist and venereologist, Dr. Edesiri Ighorodje of the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, described the growing mental health crisis caused by untreated or poorly managed skin conditions as “silent but deadly.”

“Skin diseases, especially those with no definitive cure like vitiligo or albinism, deeply affect a person’s confidence and emotional well-being,” she said. “Many people face ridicule, rejection, and misunderstanding. The emotional pain can be overwhelming.”

According to Dr. Ighorodje, chronic conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and severe acne often come with relentless physical discomfort — itching, pain, scarring — which compounds the emotional distress. In many cases, individuals spend significant amounts of money on treatments, often with little success, which only worsens their mental state.

“There’s also the financial burden,” she noted. “These treatments are often long-term, expensive, and emotionally draining. When people see little to no results, it becomes a cycle of frustration and hopelessness.”

The Danger of Online Skincare Fads and Self-Medication

One emerging concern raised by Dr. Ighorodje is the surge in misinformation on social media. With millions of Nigerians turning to influencers and online “skincare experts,” many people are using unregulated or harmful products that worsen their skin conditions.

“There’s a dangerous flood of misinformation online. People use viral skincare products that aren’t evidence-based and end up damaging their skin further,” she warned. “Your skin is unique. What worked for someone on TikTok may seriously harm you. Always consult a qualified dermatologist.”

She cautioned that the trend of self-medication — often using steroids, bleaching creams, or herbal remedies — may provide temporary relief but usually results in more severe complications later.

The Link Between Skin, Stigma, and Suicide

Dr. Ighorodje also pointed out the alarming rise in suicidal ideation among people living with chronic skin conditions, especially teenagers and young adults. “This is a vulnerable group. They are under intense pressure to look a certain way and be accepted socially,” she explained. “When they face bullying or feel ashamed of how they look, they may develop severe mental health issues.”

She cited cases of patients who had dropped out of school, ended relationships, or avoided employment opportunities due to the stigma associated with their skin condition.

“Imagine living with a visible condition like vitiligo or psoriasis in a society that mocks or ostracizes you for it,” she said. “It’s devastating and traumatic. That’s why we need both medical and psychological intervention.”

Calls for Government Action and Institutional Reform

Both Dr. Adeolu and Dr. Ighorodje called on the Federal Government to take urgent steps in addressing the intersection between skin health and mental health. They recommended:

• Nationwide sensitization campaigns to combat stigma and misinformation

• Mental health integration into dermatology departments

• Training of healthcare workers to detect early signs of mental distress in dermatology patients

• Establishment of support groups to help patients share experiences and cope emotionally

“We need to stop treating skin diseases as mere cosmetic concerns,” said Dr. Adeolu. “They are serious health issues that, if left unaddressed, can destroy lives mentally and emotionally.”

The Power of Support and Community

Dr. Ighorodje encouraged individuals with chronic skin disorders to join support groups, either in-person or online, where they can connect with others who understand their struggles. “These communities provide emotional comfort and reassurance. People need to know they’re not alone,” she said.

She also urged families, schools, and workplaces to play a more supportive role. “Stigma often comes from those closest to us,” she explained. “Parents, teachers, and employers must learn to support, not shame.”

A Collective Call to Action

As the silent crisis surrounding skin and mental health grows in Nigeria, experts warn that ignoring the problem could lead to long-term consequences, including rising suicide rates, untreated depression, and societal disengagement.

The consensus is clear: skin health is deeply connected to mental health, and until Nigeria acknowledges this link, millions will continue to suffer in silence.

It’s time to move the conversation beyond beauty and recognize that for many Nigerians, chronic skin conditions are a matter of life and mental stability.