World Skin Health Day 2026 to spark global action on skin health

Outreach projects around the world to bring education and care to underserved communities

A mobile skin clinic for Native American communities in Minnesota; advocacy campaigns on the dangers of skin bleaching in Nigeria; disease screening in Yaoundé Central Prison in Cameroon, and skin health education for the deaf community in Jordan are among 15 projects taking place around the world to mark World Skin Health Day – Wednesday 8 July 2026.

An initiative from the International League of Dermatological Societies (ILDS) and the International Society of Dermatology (ISD), World Skin Health Day aims to raise global awareness of the importance of skin health, supporting a range of projects annually to improve access to dermatology care worldwide.

Skin diseases are among the top ten causes of disability globally, yet access to specialist dermatology services is limited. In many low- and middle-income countries specialist care is simply unavailable because of a lack of trained specialists.

Prof Henry W. Lim, President of the ILDS, said:

Mental health problems, shame, stigmatisation, social isolation and reduced productivity at work are all commonly reported. The burden on public healthcare systems is also significant.”

He continued: “Many of this year’s projects support our 2026 World Skin Health Day theme – ‘Better Knowledge, Better Skin Health’ – because education helps people recognise the signs of skin disease earlier, practise safer skin care, seek appropriate treatment and make informed decisions about their health.

“For healthcare professionals and organisations, greater knowledge sharing strengthens healthcare systems, supports training, improves access to care and helps communities build healthier futures.

“We’re delighted to support such a wide range of impactful projects to mark this year’s World Skin Health Day and congratulate the many dedicated dermatologists, dermatological societies, patient organisations and healthcare workers giving up their time to deliver these vital projects to underserved communities around the world.”

Take a look at each of the projects on the map:

The ILDS thanks CeraVe Care for All, a long-standing partner, whose contributions to World Skin Health Day continue to drive dermatological care and education across the globe this year.

It also thanks Botanee Group for supporting the regional event in China and thereby helping to expand the global impact of World Skin Health Day.

Find valuable resources on the WSHD Website