The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has alerted Nigerians to the recall of several Impala brand gel nail polish products after a cancer-causing chemical was detected in their formulation.
In a public alert, NAFDAC disclosed that the recall was announced by Brazil’s health regulator, the Brazilian Health Regulatory Agency (ANVISA), following the discovery of Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide (TPO) in the affected products manufactured by Laboratório Avamiller de Cosméticos Ltd.
According to NAFDAC, the recall covers all batches of five Impala gel nail polish products, including Plus Gel Esmalte Impala Gel, Esmalte Gel Impala Gel Plus, Gel Plus Impala Esmalte Gel, Esmalte Gel Plus Impala, and Topcoat Gel Impala Gel Plus Clear.
The agency explained that TPO is prohibited in cosmetics, personal hygiene products and perfumes in Brazil because of the health risks associated with its use.
“TPO (Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide) is a chemical prohibited for use in cosmetics, personal hygiene products, and perfumes in Brazil because of its health-causing hazards, including allergic reactions, carcinogenic potential, and fertility risks,” the alert stated.
As a result of the discovery, ANVISA ordered the withdrawal of all affected batches from the Brazilian market.
While the recall action originated in Brazil, NAFDAC said it is closely monitoring developments and would take regulatory measures if any of the affected products are found within Nigeria’s supply chain.
“Although the recall action was initiated in Brazil by the Brazilian regulatory authority, NAFDAC is monitoring the situation and will take appropriate regulatory actions should any of the affected products be identified in the Nigerian supply chain,” the agency said.
The regulator urged importers, distributors, retailers and beauty salons to immediately stop importing, distributing, selling and using the affected nail polish products.
“Importers, distributors, retailers, and beauty salons are advised to exercise caution and vigilance regarding the recalled brand of nail polish products and immediately stop the importation, distribution, sale, and use of the affected Impala gel nail polish products,” NAFDAC warned.
Consumers who currently possess any of the recalled products were also advised to discontinue their use and isolate them safely.
The agency further directed users who experience adverse reactions linked to gel nail polish products to report such incidents to the nearest NAFDAC office or through its electronic reporting channels.
“Consumers in possession of any of the affected products should discontinue use and safely isolate the products and report any adverse reactions associated with the use of gel nail polish products,” the agency stated.
NAFDAC said reports can be submitted through its website, the Med Safety mobile application available on Android and iOS devices, or through its pharmacovigilance email platform.
The alert forms part of ongoing efforts by regulatory authorities to protect consumers from potentially harmful cosmetic products and ensure that products circulating in the market meet established safety standards.