Health experts and consumer protection advocates have called for stricter regulation of skincare products in Nigeria to curb the circulation of counterfeit, substandard and potentially harmful products in the market.
The call was made during a public health awareness forum held in Abuja, where stakeholders discussed the growing demand for skincare products and the need to protect consumers from health risks associated with unregulated cosmetic items.
The stakeholders noted that Nigeria’s skincare industry had witnessed remarkable growth in recent years, driven by increased awareness of personal care, beauty enhancement and wellness products.
However, they expressed concern over the rising availability of skincare products containing harmful chemicals, unverified ingredients and misleading claims, which pose significant health risks to consumers.
Speaking at the forum, a dermatologist, Dr. Hadiza Musa, warned that prolonged use of certain unapproved skincare products could result in serious skin and health complications.
According to her, consumers who use products containing unsafe substances may experience skin irritation, burns, allergic reactions, discoloration and long-term damage to the skin.
She advised consumers to exercise caution when purchasing skincare products and to ensure that products are sourced from reputable vendors.
“Consumers should be cautious about products that promise instant results or contain undisclosed ingredients. The safety of the skin should always take precedence over cosmetic benefits,” Musa said.
She further encouraged users to verify product registration status and safety information before applying any skincare product.
The dermatologist stressed that the increasing popularity of skincare products had also created opportunities for unscrupulous manufacturers and distributors to introduce counterfeit and substandard products into the market.
She said the trend underscored the need for stronger regulatory oversight and consumer vigilance.
Participants at the forum observed that some skincare products sold through informal markets and various online platforms often fail to meet established safety and quality standards.
They warned that such products expose consumers to avoidable health risks and undermine confidence in legitimate manufacturers.
The stakeholders therefore urged regulatory agencies to intensify surveillance, inspection and enforcement activities across the cosmetics and skincare value chain.
They said stricter monitoring would help ensure compliance with safety regulations and reduce the circulation of unsafe products.
A consumer rights advocate, Mrs. Zainab Bello, highlighted the importance of public awareness in addressing the problem.
According to Bello, many consumers remain unaware of the dangers associated with counterfeit and poorly regulated skincare products.
She said sustained public education campaigns would empower consumers with the knowledge required to make informed purchasing decisions.
“Consumer education is critical. People need to understand the risks involved in using products whose ingredients, source and safety status cannot be verified,” she said.
Bello added that increased awareness would contribute significantly to reducing demand for unsafe products and encourage responsible consumer behavior.
The stakeholders also called on manufacturers to uphold best practices in product formulation, quality assurance, packaging and labeling.
They noted that transparency regarding product ingredients, directions for use and possible side effects would enhance consumer trust and promote responsible product usage.
According to them, adherence to quality standards would not only protect public health but also strengthen the credibility and competitiveness of Nigeria’s skincare industry.
The forum further emphasized the importance of collaboration among government agencies, healthcare professionals, manufacturers, consumer protection groups and other stakeholders.
Participants agreed that a coordinated approach would improve oversight mechanisms and strengthen consumer protection efforts within the skincare sector.
They maintained that effective regulation, combined with sustained consumer education and industry accountability, would contribute to improved public health outcomes.
Observers at the event noted that the growing interest in skincare products presents opportunities for job creation, investment and economic growth.
However, they stressed that consumer safety must remain a priority to ensure sustainable development of the industry.
They expressed optimism that stronger regulation and increased awareness would help create a safer, more transparent and competitive skincare market in Nigeria.
