Personal and Public Health Implications of Skin Bleaching among Children and Adolescents in Africa: A Protocol for Scoping Review

Background: Skin bleaching is a widespread practice among adolescents in Africa, driven by societal beauty standards that associate lighter skin with attractiveness and social status, with roots in colonial history. Prevalence estimates vary considerably across the continent, and the practice is linked to serious physical health complications (including skin cancer, kidney damage, and mercury poisoning) as well as mental health consequences such as low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. Despite growing concern, existing reviews have focused predominantly on adult populations, leaving a gap in understanding the prevalence, determinants, and health implications of skin bleaching among children and adolescents in African settings. Objectives: This scoping review aims to map the existing literature on skin bleaching among children and adolescents (0–19 years) in Africa. Specifically, it seeks to determine the prevalence and patterns of skin bleaching, identify individual-level factors associated with the practice, assess physical and psychological health consequences, and examine public health implications. Methods: The review follows the Arksey and O'Malley framework and PRISMA-ScR reporting guidelines and is registered with the Open Science Framework. Five databases (PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, JSTOR, and AJOL), supplemented by Google Scholar searches, will be searched for studies published between 2000 and 2026. Eligibility is defined using the Population, Concept, and Context framework and includes quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods studies, as well as relevant grey literature. Two independent reviewers will screen records and extract data using a standardised, JBI-based tool, with a third reviewer resolving disagreements. As per scoping review guidance, no formal quality appraisal will be conducted. Results: Data will be synthesised narratively and descriptively, organised around the review's four research questions, and structured using a socio-ecological framework to capture individual, interpersonal, community, and policy-level influences. Expected Outcome: This review will inform healthcare professionals, educators, and policymakers, highlighting evidence gaps and priorities for future research and intervention. Keywords: Skin bleaching, Adolescents, Africa, Public health implications, Skin-lightening products, Scoping review