Nigerians have been warned to steer clear of certain Dove-branded cosmetic products recently banned in the European Union due to safety risks.
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) sounded this alarm in a public alert published on its website, urging immediate caution among consumers and retailers alike.
According to NAFDAC, the alert stems from the European Union’s restriction of products like Dove Exfoliating Hand Soap (100g) and Dove Deodorants, which were pulled off shelves in Brussels, Belgium.
The agency explained that the products contain a banned chemical, raising serious health concerns.
The substance in question, 2-(4-tert-butylbenzyl) propionaldehyde, also known as BMHCA, has been identified as harmful to human health.
NAFDAC emphasized that this chemical is not allowed in cosmetic products under European law, noting that it could impact the reproductive system and even harm unborn children.
“The products do not comply with the Cosmetic Products Regulation as they are said to contain 2-(4- tert-butylbenzyl) propionaldehyde (BMHCA), which is prohibited in cosmetic products due to its risk of harming the reproductive system, causing harm to the health of an unborn child, and may cause skin sensitization,” the agency warned.
Furthermore, the affected items include various Dove products made in Italy and the UK. NAFDAC listed them with their specific details, including:
Dove Exfoliating Hand Soap (barcode: 8710447439227)
Dove Deo Go Fresh 50ml (batch no: 9212174)
Dove Invisible Dry 50ml (batch no: 9183646)
Dove Men + Care Silver Control Spray 150ml (batch no: 62867LD)
Cosmetic product safety has always been a priority for the agency, and this recent alert highlights the need for Nigerians to stay informed about what they apply to their skin.
Meanwhile, NAFDAC clarified that none of the banned products are listed in its official database. This signals that their importation into Nigeria may have bypassed proper regulatory procedures.
“Importation of soaps is prohibited in Nigeria as per the restricted and import prohibition list,” NAFDAC stated.
It also pointed out that these products fall under the category of goods ineligible for foreign exchange support in the country.
Moreover, the agency urged sellers and importers to double-check their inventory and ensure that these harmful products are not in circulation.
“Importers, distributors, retailers, and consumers are advised to exercise caution and vigilance within the supply chain to avoid the importation, distribution, sale, and use of the above-mentioned products,” NAFDAC advised.
“Members of the public in possession of the product should discontinue the sale or use and submit the stock to the nearest NAFDAC office.”
In addition, the public has been encouraged to report any side effects experienced from cosmetic product use via NAFDAC’s online or local channels.
The agency assured that surveillance efforts are ongoing to safeguard the market and prevent the sale of unsafe items.
