Dermatologists have raised serious concerns over the growing use of unbranded perfume oils in Nigeria, warning that they could pose significant health risks, including damage to vital organs such as the liver and kidneys.
Newsonspot reports that medical experts explained that many of these perfume oils, often sold without proper labelling or regulatory approval, may contain harmful chemicals that can be absorbed through the skin over time. Prolonged exposure, they said, could lead to toxin buildup in the body and long-term health complications.
With increasing pressure on social media for people to smell pleasant and reduce body odour at public gatherings, many Nigerians have turned to locally made perfume oils sold in open markets, roadside stalls and bus stops.
The President of the Nigerian Association of Dermatologists (NAD), Professor Dasetima Altraide, warned that regular use of unregulated perfume oils exposes users to unknown substances that may disrupt the body’s hormonal system.
He noted that chemicals such as phthalates and certain solvents used in these products could interfere with hormones and may gradually damage organs like the liver and kidneys if absorbed daily over several years.
“Using unbranded perfume oils is risky because they bypass safety testing and do not disclose their ingredients. Some manufacturers may use cheap industrial chemicals that contain toxins,” Altraide said.
According to him, the dangers fall into three major areas: immediate skin and respiratory irritation, systemic toxicity, and long-term organ damage. He added that inhaling fumes from these oils can trigger coughing, breathing difficulties, migraines, dizziness and nausea, especially in sensitive individuals.
The dermatologist also warned that phthalates, commonly used to make cheap scents last longer, have been linked to reduced sperm count in men and developmental problems in children. Some chemicals, he added, may interfere with thyroid function, affecting metabolism and body weight.
Altraide further explained that prolonged use of unbranded perfume oils can permanently damage the skin, weakening its natural defence and leading to chronic skin conditions. Some unregulated fragrance oils may also react with sunlight, causing dark patches and permanent skin pigmentation, especially on areas like the neck and wrists.
Supporting these concerns, Professor Madubuko Roli, a Consultant Physician and Dermatologist at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, said locally made perfume oils and deodorants may contain harmful or carcinogenic substances.
She explained that such products can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, inflammation and worsen fungal infections. Long-term exposure, she warned, may lead to abnormal skin cell changes with serious health consequences.
Professor Roli called on the government to enforce stricter regulation of cosmetic and fragrance products in the market to protect public health.
“At the moment, anyone can mix chemicals at home and sell them without oversight. This lack of regulation is dangerous and must be addressed,” she said.
