The National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) is alerting Nigerians about a skin-lightening lotion, Caro White, being recalled in Europe.
The European Union’s Rapid Alert System for Dangerous Non-Food Products (RAPEX) flagged the product, “Caro White Skin Lightening Beauty Lotion,” for exceeding the allowable limit of Kojic Acid.
Kojic Acid is a common ingredient in lightening creams, but high concentrations can disrupt the body’s hormonal balance. The European Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) established a 1% maximum concentration for Kojic Acid in cosmetic products.
While the specific Caro White Skin Lightening Beauty Lotion is not registered with NAFDAC but is available in Nigeria, the agency urges caution. NAFDAC advises importers, distributors, retailers, and consumers to be vigilant and avoid the product if encountered.
“The product authenticity and physical condition should be carefully checked. Members of the public in possession of the product should discontinue the sale or use and submit stock to the nearest NAFDAC office.”
The Caro White Skin Lightening Beauty Lotion was manufactured with batch number LB2.1790.B and barcode 6181100538892.
Individuals in possession of this lotion are advised to immediately cease its use and return the product to the nearest office of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).
Again, healthcare professionals and consumers are urged to report any adverse reactions encountered while using this lotion. Reports can be submitted through various channels, including email to pharmacovigilance@nafdac.gov.ng, the E-reporting platforms available on the NAFDAC website, or through the Med-safety application.
This news comes after a similar incident in July 2023, where a different “Caro White” product sold in the UK was recalled for containing prohibited substances. NAFDAC emphasizes the importance of product authentication and encourages consumers to be cautious about unregulated beauty products.
