The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has sounded a critical alarm over the circulation of certain Dove products — specifically Dove Hand Soap (100g) and Dove Deodorants — following a ban by the European Union for containing a dangerous and prohibited chemical substance.
In an urgent public notification titled “Public Alert No. 018/2025,” released via the agency’s official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Saturday, NAFDAC revealed that the European Union Authorities banned the marketing and sale of these products in Brussels, Belgium, after detecting the presence of Butylphenyl Methylpropional (BMHCA) — also known as 2-(4-tert-butylbenzyl) propionaldehyde — a substance outlawed in cosmetic products due to severe health risks.
> “These products contain BMHCA, a banned ingredient known for its potential to disrupt the reproductive system, cause developmental harm to unborn children, and trigger severe skin sensitisation,” NAFDAC warned.
The agency further underscored that these Dove products are not registered in the NAFDAC database, rendering them illegal for sale or distribution in Nigeria. Additionally, the importation of such soaps is explicitly prohibited under Nigeria’s Import Prohibition List. Cosmetic products like these are also excluded from eligibility for foreign exchange, tightening regulatory restrictions on their entry into the Nigerian market.
BMHCA, the chemical at the heart of the ban, is classified as toxic under the EU’s Cosmetic Products Regulation. Scientific studies have linked it to endocrine disruption, developmental toxicity, and dermatological complications. The European Union officially restricted its use in cosmetic products in light of growing evidence about its potential to cause long-term health damage.
🛑 What Nigerians Need To Do
NAFDAC has issued a stern advisory to importers, distributors, retailers, and consumers to remain vigilant and exercise caution throughout the supply chain to avoid inadvertently bringing in or trading the prohibited products.
> “Anyone in possession of these banned Dove products is strongly advised to immediately discontinue use or sale and submit existing stock to the nearest NAFDAC office,” the agency directed.
đź“© Report Suspicious Products or Side Effects
NAFDAC has also urged healthcare professionals and consumers to report any adverse effects linked to the use of Dove or any regulated product through its pharmacovigilance@nafdac.gov.ng email or via the NAFDAC E-reporting platforms.
🧴 Bottom Line: Beauty Shouldn’t Be Toxic
As the cosmetic industry faces increasing scrutiny globally, NAFDAC’s swift action signals its commitment to protecting Nigerian consumers from harmful products, especially those that violate both international safety standards and local regulatory frameworks.
Consumers are advised to verify product authenticity and approval status before use and report any suspicious items immediately. Your health and safety come first.
PIONEER NEWS 