NAFDAC Issues Recall Of Popular Skin Lotion Over Safety Concerns

NAFDAC Issues Recall Of Popular Skin Lotion Over Safety Concerns

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has mandated the recall of Dove Beauty Cream Bar Soap (100g), batch number 81832M 08, manufactured in Germany.

The agency issued the recall following the discovery of a chemical impurity in the soap. According to NAFDAC, the product violates the Cosmetic Products Regulation due to the presence of Butylphenyl Methylpropional (BMHCA), also known as Lilial. This chemical is associated with significant health risks, including potential harm to the reproductive system and adverse effects on unborn children. BMHCA has been banned in cosmetic products across the European Union due to its potential to cause skin sensitization and allergic reactions.

In its statement, NAFDAC said:

“The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) is notifying the public about the recall of Dove Beauty Cream Bar Soap (100g), batch number 81832M 08, produced in Germany, due to chemical impurity. The product fails to meet the Cosmetic Products Regulation standards as it contains Butylphenyl Methylpropional (BMHCA), which is prohibited because of its reproductive toxicity, risk to unborn children, and potential for skin sensitization. The chemical is already banned in several EU countries.”

The agency also noted that other Dove products containing BMHCA have been recalled or banned in various countries. These include Derma Spa Goodness, Men Care, Men Care+ Sensitive Shield, Natural Touch, Nourishing Body Care Light Hydro, Pampering Body Lotion, Go Fresh, Talco con Crema, Go Fresh Pera, Extra Fresh, Goodness3 Skincare Ritual, Invisible Dry Antiperspirant Spray, Go Fresh Revitalize Nourishing Shower Gel, Caring Hand Wash, and Invisible Dry.

NAFDAC indicated that these products are not listed in its database. It urged the public to exercise caution and avoid the importation, distribution, sale, and use of these products. Import restrictions on soaps and cosmetics are already in place in Nigeria, and these items are not eligible for foreign exchange for importation.

Consumers in possession of the affected soap are advised to cease using or selling the product and to return it to the nearest NAFDAC office. The agency also called on healthcare professionals and the public to report any adverse effects experienced from the use of regulated products to NAFDAC through its various reporting platforms.