Dr Gerard Ee, a leading dermatologist at The Clifford Clinic in Lagos, has introduced a new treatment that promises to reduce the visibility of acne scars. The procedure, which uses advanced laser technology, has already helped over 200 patients in the past six months. The development comes as Nigeria grapples with rising skin health concerns, particularly among young adults.
What Is the New Treatment?
The treatment, developed in collaboration with international dermatology experts, combines fractional laser therapy with topical regenerative serums. Dr Ee explained that the process stimulates collagen production, helping to smooth out scarred skin. “It’s not a quick fix, but it offers long-term results,” he said. The clinic has reported a 70% improvement in patients’ skin texture after three sessions.
The procedure is available at The Clifford Clinic in Lagos, a city known for its high population density and limited access to advanced skincare. The clinic has also launched a mobile outreach program to bring the treatment to underserved areas. “Many people in Nigeria don’t have access to quality skincare, especially in rural regions,” said Dr Ee. “We want to change that.”
Why Does This Matter for Nigeria?
Nigeria’s healthcare system faces significant challenges, including a shortage of dermatologists and limited access to advanced treatments. According to the World Health Organization, only 1.5 dermatologists are available per million people in the country. Dr Ee’s initiative addresses this gap by offering a scalable solution that can be adapted for wider use.
“Skin health is often overlooked in public health discussions,” said Dr Ee. “But it has a direct impact on people’s self-esteem and mental health.” The treatment has already gained attention from local health officials, who see it as a potential model for expanding dermatological care across the continent.
The Clifford Clinic has also partnered with the Lagos State Ministry of Health to provide free consultations for low-income patients. This partnership highlights the growing importance of public-private collaboration in addressing healthcare disparities.
What to Watch Next
Dr Ee plans to expand the treatment to other cities in Nigeria, including Kano and Port Harcourt, by the end of 2025. The clinic is also exploring partnerships with pan-African health organizations to scale the initiative. “We want to make this treatment accessible to as many people as possible,” said Dr Ee.
Health experts in Nigeria are closely monitoring the outcome of the program. If successful, it could serve as a blueprint for other African countries facing similar healthcare challenges. The next major milestone will be the launch of the mobile outreach program, which is expected to reach 5,000 patients in the first year.
As the demand for skin treatments grows, the success of Dr Ee’s initiative could influence broader discussions on healthcare investment and innovation in Africa. With more focus on dermatology and skin health, the continent may see a shift in how public health policies address long-neglected areas.
