NAFDAC Warns Against Dove Soap, Deodorants Due to Risks to Reproductive Health and Unborn Children

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a public alert warning Nigerians against using certain Dove-branded cosmetic products, citing health risks associated with reproductive harm.

According to Public Alert No. 018/2025 released on Monday, four variants of Dove hand soap and deodorants have been flagged for containing a banned chemical substance, 2-(4-tert-butylbenzyl) propionaldehyde (BMHCA). This ingredient is prohibited in the European Union due to its potential to harm the reproductive system, affect unborn children, and cause skin sensitisation.

The affected products include:

• Dove Exfoliating Hand Soap – Barcode: 8710447439227 – Made in Italy Dove
• Go Fresh Deodorant (50ml) – Batch No: 9212174 – Barcode: 96137130 – Made in Italy
• Dove Invisible Dry Deodorant (50ml) – Batch No: 9183646 – Barcode: 96022313 – Made in Italy
• Dove Men + Care Silver Control Spray (150ml) – Batch No: 62867LD – Barcode: 8712561255820 – Made in the UK

NAFDAC clarified that these products are not registered in its database and are therefore unauthorised for sale or distribution in Nigeria.

The agency also reminded the public that the importation of soaps is banned in Nigeria under the country’s restricted and import prohibition list. Additionally, soaps and cosmetics are among the items ineligible for foreign exchange through the official market.

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 alert read.

NAFDAC urged anyone in possession of the affected items to immediately stop using or selling them and submit any remaining stock to the nearest NAFDAC office.

Healthcare professionals and consumers are encouraged to report any adverse reactions linked to the use of regulated products through NAFDAC’s E-reporting platforms.

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