The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a public alert to Nigerians regarding health risks associated with certain Dove-branded cosmetic products that were recently banned by the European Union.
In Public Alert No. 018/2025, titled “Alert on the Ban of Dove Hand and Deodorant Soap due to Butylphenyl Methylpropional Contamination,” NAFDAC disclosed that EU authorities restricted the marketing and sale of Dove Exfoliating Hand Soap (100g) and Dove Deodorant in Brussels, Belgium, due to safety concerns.
According to NAFDAC, the affected products contain 2-(4-tert-butylbenzyl) propionaldehyde (BMHCA), a substance prohibited in cosmetic products within the EU.
NAFDAC warned, “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 listed the specific affected products, which include items produced in Italy and the United Kingdom:
- Dove Exfoliating Hand Soap (barcode 8710447439227)
- Dove Deo Go Fresh 50ml (batch number 9212174)
- Dove Invisible Dry 50ml (batch number 9183646)
- Dove Men + Care Silver Control Spray 150ml (batch number 62867LD)
NAFDAC noted that these identified products are not registered in its database. The agency further emphasized that the importation of soaps into Nigeria is already prohibited under the country’s import restriction policies, and that “Beyond the import restrictions, soaps and cosmetics are part of the items ineligible for foreign exchange to import in Nigeria.”
NAFDAC advised importers, distributors, and retailers to be vigilant to prevent these listed products from entering the local supply chain.
It urged, “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 the stock to the nearest NAFDAC office.”
Finally, NAFDAC encouraged healthcare professionals and consumers to report any adverse effects related to the use of these or other cosmetic products through the agency’s reporting platforms.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to public health safety and promised to continue surveillance on cosmetic products in the Nigerian market to prevent the circulation of harmful items.
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