Nigerian agency raises red flag on Ivorian skin-lightening lotion Caro White

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) on Wednesday issued a warning to Nigerians regarding the use of Caro White, an Ivorian skin-lightening beauty lotion.

The warning, detailed in Public Alert No. 15/2023 and posted on NAFDAC’s official X handle, indicates that Caro White has been found to contain high concentrations of kojic acid.

This finding is based on information from the European Union Rapid Alert System for Dangerous Non-Food Products (RAPEX).

According to NAFDAC, Caro White does not comply with Cosmetic Products Regulation due to its kojic acid concentration exceeding the maximum allowable limit of 1%, as determined by the EU Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS).

The agency noted that high levels of kojic acid are linked to potential endocrine-disrupting properties.

Although Caro White is not listed in NAFDAC’s database, the agency urges importers, distributors, retailers, and consumers to be cautious and vigilant to prevent the product’s importation, distribution, sale, and use.

NAFDAC advises the public to verify the authenticity and physical condition of cosmetic products carefully.

Those in possession of Caro White should cease its sale or use and submit any stock to the nearest NAFDAC office.