NAFDAC Bans Dove Products, Warns Nigerians Against Use of Soaps and Deodorants
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a public health alert, cautioning Nigerians against the use of specific Dove-branded cosmetic products that have been prohibited in the European Union due to the presence of a potentially harmful chemical.
In an alert titled “Ban of Dove Hand and Deodorant Soap due to Butylphenyl Methylpropional Contamination,” released on Saturday, the agency disclosed that the affected products contain 2-(4-tert-butylbenzyl) propanaldehyde, a substance classified as toxic and linked to adverse health effects, including reproductive harm and skin sensitization.
❌ Affected Products
The identified products include:
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)
NAFDAC confirmed that the aforementioned products are not registered in its national database, and their circulation contravenes Nigeria’s regulatory import guidelines.
Import Restrictions
According to the agency, “Importation of soaps is prohibited in Nigeria as per the restricted and import prohibition list. Beyond the import restrictions, soaps and cosmetics are part of the items ineligible for foreign exchange to import in Nigeria.”
In line with existing policies, the agency warned importers and traders to desist from bringing such items into the country. It also reminded stakeholders in the supply chain — including distributors and retailers — to ensure strict compliance with regulatory standards.
Call for Vigilance
“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,” the agency stated.
NAFDAC further advised members of the public in possession of any of the listed products to immediately discontinue use or sale and submit remaining stock to the nearest NAFDAC office nationwide.
Public Health Commitment
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety of regulated products and called on healthcare providers and consumers to report any adverse effects or complaints related to cosmetic products through its official pharmacovigilance reporting channels.
