Hydroquinone (HQ) and clobetasol 17-propionate (17PC) are two medicinal agents commonly incorporated because of their skin bleaching properties into lightening cosmetics sold out in some sub-Saharan regions (Senegal, Togo, South Africa, Cameroon…). The aim of this study was to quantify these agents in lightening creams and body lotions marketed in Douala, the economic capital city of Cameroon. A preliminary investigation was carried out at the main cosmetics sales outlets (pharmacies, perfumeries and supermarkets) of the city, in order to come out the overall proportion of lightening cosmetics and to inventory the mainly bleaching agents listed as ingredients in these products. About forty lightening creams and body lotions were purchased and then analyzed in other to come out their respective hydroquinone and 17PC concentrations. The results have revealed a compliance rate of 79%, with 47.5% of the samples containing hydroquinone at a higher concentration than the one allowed in cosmetics (≤ 2%). Clobetasol 17-propionate, forbidden in cosmetics, has been identified in all the samples with 77.5% having a dosage above the 0.05% accepted medicinal creams, what may lead to systemic repercussions when used chronically.