The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a warning to Nigerians against using Caro White, a popular Ivorian skin-lightening lotion. In a public notice on May 13, NAFDAC reported that Caro White contains high levels of kojic acid, as identified by the European Union Rapid Alert System.
NAFDAC also informed the public about the EU’s recall of Caro White Skin Lightening Beauty Lotion due to safety concerns. The agency cautioned that continued use of this lotion could lead to endocrine disruption, advising importers and consumers to refrain from importing, selling, distributing, or using the product.
The statement reads: “The product does not comply with the Cosmetic Products Regulation as it is said to contain high concentration of Kojic Acid above 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.”