NAFDAC warns of toxic substance found in Impala nail polish

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has warned Nigerians about the recall of certain Impala brand gel nail polish products after a harmful chemical was detected in the formulations.

NAFDAC said it received a notice from Brazil’s Health Regulatory Agency, Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária (ANVISA), announcing the recall of specific Impala gel nail polish items produced by Laboratório Avamiller de Cosméticos Ltd.

The recall was triggered by the discovery of Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide (TPO) in the affected products.

NAFDAC explained that TPO is banned for use in cosmetics, personal hygiene products and perfumes in Brazil because of its health hazards.

The agency noted that the chemical can trigger allergic reactions and also carries carcinogenic and fertility-related risks.

“As a result, ANVISA has ordered the withdrawal of all affected batches from the Brazilian market,” the statement read.

The products identified for recall were Impala nail polish items manufactured by Laboratório Avamiller de Cosméticos Ltda.

NAFDAC listed the affected products as follows:

• Plus, Gel Esmalte Impala Gel

• Esmalte Gel Impala Gel Plus

• Gel Plus Impala Esmalte Gel

• Esmalte Gel Plus Impala

• Topcoat Gel Impala Gel Plus Clear

The agency added that although the recall was initiated in Brazil, it is closely monitoring the situation in Nigeria.

It said that regulatory action would be taken if any of the affected products appear in the Nigerian supply chain.

NAFDAC advised consumers who own any of the recalled nail polish products to stop using them immediately and store them safely.

The agency also urged the public to report any adverse reactions related to the products at the nearest NAFDAC office or via its e‑reporting platforms on the agency’s website.