The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a warning to Nigerians about the use of Caro White, an Ivorian skin-lightening beauty lotion.
In a public notification dated May 13, NAFDAC highlighted that Caro White has been found to contain high concentrations of kojic acid, as reported by the European Union Rapid Alert System.
NAFDAC is informing the public of the recall of Caro White Skin Lightening Beauty Lotion by the European Union (EU) Rapid Alert System for Dangerous Non-Food Products (RAPEX).
The agency also noted that continued use of the lotion poses a risk of endocrine disruption. NAFDAC advises commercial agents and consumers to be cautious and to avoid importing, selling, or distributing this product.
The notice states: “The product does not comply with the Cosmetic Products Regulation as it is said to contain high concentrations of Kojic Acid above the allowable maximum concentration of 1%, as concluded by the EU Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS).”
“High concentration of Kojic Acid is associated with potential endocrine disrupting properties.
“Although the product is not in 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 product.
The product authenticity and physical condition should be carefully checked. Members of the public in possession of the product should discontinue sale or use and submit stock to the nearest NAFDAC office.
“Healthcare professionals and consumers are encouraged to report adverse events experienced with the use of the product 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.”