The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has mandated the recall of Dove Beauty Cream Bar Soap (100g) with batch number 81832M 08, which was produced in Germany.
In a statement on its X account, NAFDAC explained that the recall is due to the detection of a chemical impurity. The soap contains Butylphenyl Methylpropional, also known as Lilial, which is prohibited in cosmetic products due to its serious health risks.
This chemical is associated with potential harm to the reproductive system and could adversely affect unborn children. Additionally, it has been linked to skin sensitization and allergic reactions in some users.
The statement reads: “The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) is alerting the public about the recall of Dove Beauty Cream Bar Soap (100g) with batch number 81832M 08, produced in Germany, due to chemical impurity.
“The product does not comply with the Cosmetic Products Regulation, as it contains Butylphenyl Methylpropional (BMHCA), which is prohibited due to its risks of reproductive harm, danger to unborn children, and potential for causing skin sensitization. Several regulatory authorities in the EU have already banned its marketing.”
Other Dove cosmetic products recalled or banned in various countries due to the presence of BMHCA 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 noted that these specific soaps are not listed in its database. The agency has urged the public to exercise caution and remain vigilant within the supply chain to prevent the importation, distribution, sale, and use of these products.
“Importation of soaps is prohibited in Nigeria as per the restricted and import prohibition list. Beyond the import restrictions soaps and cosmetics are parts of the items ineligible for foreign exchange to import in Nigeria. These products are also not available in the NAFDAC database.
“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. Members of the public in possession of the product should discontinue the sale or use and submit stock to the nearest NAFDAC office.”
NAFDAC also urged health experts to report adverse events experienced with the use of regulated products to its nearest office.
The statement added: “Healthcare professionals and consumers are encouraged to report adverse events experienced with the use of regulated products to the nearest NAFDAC office, via pharmacovigilance@nafdac.gov.ng, E-reporting platforms available at www.nafdac.gov.ng or via the Med-safety application for download on android and IOS stores.”
