Bleaching Creams Could Cause Cancer, NAFDAC Alerts Nigerians

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a strong warning to consumers about the dangers of using skin-lightening products that contain excessive amounts of hydroquinone, a chemical agent associated with serious health risks.

The warning was issued by Hamis Yahaya, NAFDAC Coordinator in Bauchi State, during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday.

Hydroquinone, commonly used to treat conditions like hyperpigmentation, melasma, and age spots, is only considered safe in concentrations of two per cent or less in cosmetic products.

Yahaya emphasized that many users may be unaware of the long-term health hazards associated with higher concentrations of the chemical.

“Applying creams with hydroquinone contents more than two per cent is harmful. Mixing creams by non-experts is wrong,” he warned.

He further explained that while melanin in darker skin tones provides natural protection against harmful radiation, using high doses of hydroquinone can reverse that protection and lead to severe consequences.

“The black colour provides natural protection against harmful radiation due to melanin content,” Yahaya said.

“Hydroquinone affects the health of the users gradually, including causing cancer.”

Yahaya noted that NAFDAC routinely monitors cosmetic products on the market to ensure compliance with safety standards and to protect public health.

He also called on the media to play a greater role in sensitizing the public about the risks associated with unauthorized or excessive use of chemical-based cosmetic products.

“Hydroquinone affects the health of the users gradually, including causing cancer,” he reiterated.

“The media must raise awareness about the dangers of cosmetics that could endanger consumer lives.”

The agency’s renewed alert comes amid rising concerns over the unregulated use of skin-bleaching products in Nigeria, many of which are mixed by untrained individuals or sold without proper labeling or regulatory approval.