The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has warned against using a cosmetic product, YW Cosmetics glycolic acid.

The warning is contained in a public alert signed by the director-general of the agency, Moji Adeyeye, on Tuesday in Abuja.

Ms Adeyeye stated that the agency was equally informed of the product by the German Federal Office of Consumer Protection and Food Safety (BVL).

According to her, 70 per cent of glycolic acid is a strong acidic alpha hydroxyl-acid (AHA) and is the most popular used in skin care.

She said the product was manufactured from sugar cane and “is the smallest AHA and the most effective at getting into the skin”.

“Products containing AHAs are marketed for a variety of purposes, such as smoothing fine lines and surface wrinkles, improving skin texture and tone, unblocking and cleansing pores, and improving skin condition in general.

“Alpha hydroxy acids can also cause mild skin irritation, redness, swelling, itching, and skin discolouration.

“Facial peels left on the skin for periods longer than recommended can cause severe burns to the skin.

“The product comes in a 50ml bottle and is traded online without a batch and lot identification number,” Ms Adeyeye said.

According to her, NAFDAC implores consumers to exercise caution in the use of YW cosmetics.

“Healthcare professionals, consumers and patients are encouraged to report adverse events related to the use of this product to the nearest NAFDAC office, NAFDAC PRASCOR on (20543 TOLLS FREE from all networks),” she said.

(NAN)