By Moyofoluwa Ogunyemi & Lateefat Ogunyale
The Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) in collaboration with the Tropics Derma Research and Training Institute (TDRTI), conducted a two-week free skin analysis exercise across Lagos State from May 12 to 26, 2025. The initiative was part of an on-going effort to collect data on skin types, concerns and needs, specific to tropical environments, using Lagos as a representative case study. The ultimate aim was to support the development of skincare solutions suited to the unique challenges of people living in hot, humid regions.
Skincare is an essential part of personal health and hygiene, yet it is often overlooked, particularly in tropical areas where high humidity, intense sun exposure and environmental factors can take its toll on skin health. Lagos, with its diverse population and climatic conditions, provided a perfect backdrop for this research.
The exercise was conducted in various locations across the state, including schools, markets, churches, hospitals, police stations, government offices and on the streets. Specific venues included the RMRDC office, Lekki, Sabo Market in Ikorodu, General Hospital Ikorodu, Hephzibah International Christian Centre, Ikorodu and several primary and secondary schools. In total, 566 male and female volunteers were involved in the analysis, ranging in age from as young as two years to over sixty.
Each participant provided basic personal information such as name, gender, date of birth, contact details and location. A digital skin analyzer was used to examine five key skin parameters: sebum (oil secretion), elasticity, collagen, pigmentation, and moisture. The data collected were securely stored in a centralized system for further analysis. Findings from the exercise revealed several recurring skin concerns. A significant number of participants showed signs of deep pigmentation, which was largely attributed to prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. Dry skin was also widespread, as most individuals displayed low skin moisture levels. While sebum levels were generally balanced across participants, weak skin elasticity was commonly observed. The programme was widely welcomed, with many participants expressing appreciation for the initiative. Several individuals urged TDRTI to accelerate the development of skincare products designed to address the specific issues highlighted, particularly given that daily sun exposure is unavoidable for many residents.
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However, the exercise was not without its challenges. Some participants were reluctant to participate due to fear of potential results. Others did not consider skin analysis important and some showed little interest due to the absence of tangible benefits or incentives. Limited time also restricted outreach to some organizations and overall awareness of the exercise remained relatively low in certain areas.
Overall, the two-week exercise offered valuable insights into the skin health of Lagos residents and the findings highlighted the pressing need for skincare products that target common conditions such as hyperpigmentation, dryness and reduced elasticity.
