In a strong public health advisory, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a clear warning to Nigerians: stop using skin-lightening creams that contain more than two percent hydroquinone. The agency says these products are dangerous — and could lead to life-threatening conditions like cancer.
Mr. Hamis Yahaya, NAFDAC’s Bauchi State Coordinator, raised the alarm while speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria on Tuesday, July 2, 2025. According to him, “Applying creams with hydroquinone contents more than two percent is harmful. Mixing creams by non-experts is wrong.” His message was direct — the desire for lighter skin should not come at the cost of one’s health.
Hydroquinone, a chemical often found in beauty products for treating dark spots and uneven skin tone, is not new. But what many don’t know is how risky it becomes when abused. “Hydroquinone affects the health of the users gradually, including causing cancer,” Yahaya warned.
He went on to explain that darker skin, rich in melanin, already offers a natural defense against harmful UV radiation. “The black colour provides natural protection… due to melanin content,” he said, highlighting the biological advantage many are unknowingly trying to erase.
Yahaya also assured that NAFDAC constantly monitors products in markets to ensure they comply with safety standards. But he stressed that regulation alone is not enough. He called on the media and the public to help spread the message. “The media must create awareness in order to stem down the use of cosmetics that would endanger the lives of consumers,” he pleaded.
NAFDAC reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Nigerians from unsafe beauty trends, and urged everyone to be more mindful of what they apply on their skin. The message is simple but urgent: beauty should never cost you your life.
