Understanding the use of skin lightening products: a toolkit for behavioural data collection

Overview

This toolkit offers practical guidance and ready‑to‑use tools to support the collection of behavioural data and insights on the use of skin lightening products. Its purpose is to inform effective public health interventions and regulatory action.

Developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) in collaboration with partner organizations, the toolkit aligns with global efforts under the Minamata Convention on Mercury and relevant World Health Assembly resolutions. It includes a user journey map, a qualitative data collection tool, and a survey tool, accompanied by detailed guidance on their application.

The toolkit provides support on sampling strategies, ethical considerations, tool adaptation, and data collection scenarios adapted to different resource settings. Designed for public health practitioners, researchers, and policy‑makers, it enables the design and implementation of targeted interventions and people‑centred, evidence‑based policies.