Myths and Facts about Skin Donation

5 Myths and Facts about Skin Donation in Singapore

Here are some common myths about skin donation, and the facts behind them:

Myth 1: Skin can be donated when someone is still alive.

Fact: Skin donation can only occur after death.

Living skin donation is not practised in Singapore. Skin donation is governed under the Medical (Therapy, Education and Research) Act, which only allows for the donation of organs and tissues after death.

Myth 2: People with wrinkled and aged skin cannot be skin donors.

Fact: Individuals up to 90 years old are eligible to be skin donors.

The skin’s ability to serve as donor tissue is not determined by its appearance. Even as skin ages or becomes wrinkled, it continues to function as a protective barrier against environmental factors and pathogens. Every pledge is valuable because donated skin grafts play a pivotal role in giving severe burn victims a second chance at life.

Myth 3: Skin donation is already covered under the Human Organ Transplant Act (HOTA).

Fact: Skin donation is not covered under HOTA.

HOTA is an opt-out scheme that covers the donation and use of specific organs (kidneys, liver, heart and corneas) after death for the purpose of transplantation only. Any other organs and tissues, like the skin, are not covered under this Act.

To leave behind a legacy through skin donation, you may make a separate pledge under the Medical (Therapy, Education and Research) Act.

Please refer to Be a Skin Donor for more information.

Myth 4: Pledging to be a skin donor will cause distress to my family.

Fact: It is advisable to discuss your decision with your loved ones. In the event of a death, families may be approached about donation. If they are unsure of their loved one’s wishes, this uncertainty can be distressing.

Sharing your decision in advance helps your family understand your wishes and provides clarity and comfort during a difficult time.

Ultimately, the decision to proceed takes into account both the donor’s wishes and the family’s consent.

Myth 5: Hospital care will be compromised for skin donors.

Fact: A person's choice to be a skin donor does not affect the medical care they receive.

Treatment decisions are always based on the patient’s condition and best interests, regardless of donor status. Skin donation is only considered after all life-saving efforts have been exhausted and death has been confirmed.