The Albinism Society of Kenya (ASK) has formed a promising partnership with Linton Cosmetics, a collaboration set to bring significant benefits to individuals living with albinism, particularly in terms of accessible sunscreen.
ASK chairperson Isaac Mwaura,who is also Cabinet Administrative Secretary (CAS) to the Office of Prime Cabinet Secretary, Isaac Mwaura, announced the partnership whereby members will have access to sunscreen from Lintons Cosmetics at a 50 per cent discounted rate, a step aimed at ensuring the affordability of this essential product.
“This partnership marks a significant stride in the quest to ensure the well-being and empowerment of individuals with albinism in Kenya, addressing critical health and accessibility issues,” he said.
Sunscreen is an absolute necessity for People Living with Albinism. However, the existing options in the market are prohibitively expensive.
Mwaura said one distinctive factor that led ASK to select Linton Cosmetics as its partner is their plant-based sunscreen formulation. This unique product is entirely devoid of chemicals and is effective in preventing skin cancer.
This is a critical concern, as statistics indicate that within sub-Saharan Africa, skin cancer claims the lives of nine out of 10 individuals with albinism before they reach the age of 30. The prevalent sunscreens in the market are predominantly chemical-based and can result in adverse effects for this community.
Beyond affordability, ASK and Linton Cosmetics share the vision of ensuring that sunscreens are readily available to all members. The current scenario presents a challenge where sun protection measures, including sunscreen, are inaccessible to many. Presently, sunscreen distribution is limited to select hospitals, rendering it accessible only to those who are privileged.
“Compounding the issue is the fact that the available sunscreens often lack clear guidelines for application. Moreover, the journey to acquire these sunscreens involves arduous and expensive travel, posing risks to the community,” Mwaura added.
Dr Joyce Gikunda, the Founder of Lintons Beauty affirmed that the partnership is designed to supplement and complement the efforts of the government, rather than compete with them. Through this collaboration, ASK members will be able to obtain the plant-based sunscreen for Sh1,250, which is a significantly reduction from the original price of Sh2,500.
“Our mission is to ensure that every person living with albinism can access this vital product. Our aim is also to bring advanced technologies within reach of those who require them the most. Provision of sunscreen to individuals with albinism will undoubtedly enhance their quality of life by safeguarding them against skin cancer and the stigma they often face,” Gikunda said.
Albinism is a genetic condition affecting melanin production, the pigment responsible for skin, hair, and eye color. People with albinism possess reduced melanin or none at all, leading to a range of challenges, including sun-sensitive skin and vision impairment. This lifelong condition, though incurable, does not deteriorate over time.
