Leading medical professionals have raised fresh concerns over the increasing use of perfumes, deodorants, and body sprays containing harmful chemicals, warning that prolonged exposure could lead to serious health conditions, including cancer, hormonal disorders, and fertility problems.
Speaking in separate interviews, internal medicine experts cautioned that many of these products contain dangerous substances such as parabens, phthalates, aluminium, and triclosan—classified as endocrine-disrupting chemicals. These chemicals, they explained, can interfere with the body’s hormonal system and trigger various health challenges.
According to the specialists, these endocrine disruptors can alter the function of natural hormones that regulate important bodily functions. Women and girls who frequently use such products are reportedly at risk of experiencing irregular menstrual cycles, fertility issues, early puberty, thyroid dysfunction, and hormone-sensitive cancers like breast cancer.
Men are not spared either. The experts noted that consistent exposure could result in fertility challenges, diabetes, and certain types of cancer, including prostate cancer. Short-term reactions such as sneezing, choking, skin irritation, and allergic rashes were also identified as common effects.
A Professor of Medicine and Endocrinology at Bayero University Kano, Prof. Andrew Uloko, confirmed that beauty and fragrance products often contain chemicals that disrupt natural hormone production. He explained that while substances like parabens and phthalates are often used as preservatives or to add fragrance, aluminium is commonly found in antiperspirants to reduce sweating.
“These chemicals may alter hormonal balance, leading to long-term issues. Both men and women are affected, but women face greater risks because they tend to use more of these products,” Prof. Uloko said.
On the possible long-term consequences, the professor listed cancer, reproductive health challenges, early or delayed puberty in girls, obesity, insulin resistance, thyroid disorders, and even neurological problems such as hyperactivity and developmental delays.
He warned that while short-term symptoms may disappear once the products are discontinued, long-term health issues—such as diabetes or cancer—may persist and require ongoing treatment.
Prof. Uloko, who also heads the Endocrine and Metabolism Society of Nigeria, called for stronger regulatory measures to monitor the chemical content of cosmetics and personal care items. He urged relevant bodies such as NAFDAC and the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) to intensify efforts and introduce clear labelling requirements.
“We need policies that will limit or outright ban harmful substances. Regulatory action must be visible and consistent,” he said.
He further cautioned that if Nigeria continues to allow the unchecked importation of unregulated products, there could be a rise in non-communicable diseases like cancer, infertility, and diabetes.
He advised Nigerians to opt for organic or natural alternatives, minimise the use of chemical-based products, and embrace healthier lifestyles, including better dietary choices rich in antioxidants like vitamin C and folate.
Also speaking, the President of the Nigerian Association of Dermatologists, Prof. Dasetima Altraide, confirmed the link between some cosmetic and fragrance products and hormonal disruptions.
He explained that chemicals such as parabens, phthalates, triclosan, and bisphenol A—common in many personal care products—are capable of affecting hormone regulation in the body.
“These substances can cause menstrual disturbances, infertility, early onset of puberty, and thyroid problems. They are also associated with increased risks of hormone-sensitive cancers,” Prof. Altraide said.
He recommended that users should look out for fragrance-free, paraben-free, or certified organic products to reduce risk.
The dermatologist lamented the poor regulation of cosmetic products in Nigeria, describing it as a major contributor to the public health threat. He acknowledged that although some products have been recalled in the past, more consistent regulatory oversight is urgently needed.
Both experts called for intensified public awareness and further research into the long-term health impact of daily-use cosmetic and fragrance products in the country.
