Experts Raise the Alarm Over Health Dangers of Unbranded Perfume Oils in Nigeria

Dermatologists in Nigeria have cautioned that the increasing use of unbranded and unregulated perfume oils, commonly sold in markets and on streets, could expose users to serious health complications, including damage to vital organs such as the liver and kidneys, as well as long-term skin and hormonal problems.

Medical specialists say the warning has become necessary as more Nigerians turn to cheap, locally produced fragrance oils in response to social pressure to maintain pleasant body odour, without considering the possible health consequences.

Across many cities, perfume oils packaged in small bottles and sold without ingredient lists or regulatory approval have gained popularity.

However, health professionals insist that these products often contain unsafe chemicals capable of causing gradual harm when absorbed through the skin over time.

Speaking on the issue, the President of the Nigerian Association of Dermatologists, Prof. Dasetima Altraide, explained that regular exposure to poorly manufactured fragrance products could allow toxic substances to accumulate in the body.

“Some solvents used in unbranded perfume oils (like benzene derivatives) are suspected liver and kidney toxins if absorbed through the skin daily over several years,” he said.

He further noted that such products typically escape proper safety checks and quality control.

“Using unbranded or unregulated perfume oils poses significant health risks because these products often bypass safety testing and skip full ingredient disclosure. Without regulation, manufacturers may use low-cost industrial chemicals or ‘trade secret’ fragrance blends that contain toxins,” Altraide added.

According to him, the dangers associated with these products can be immediate or long-term, ranging from skin irritation to more severe internal health problems.

“Because these products often contain high concentrations of unrefined synthetic molecules, they are frequent triggers for acute reactions like respiratory distress. Inhaling fumes from unbranded perfume oils can irritate the lungs. This may manifest as coughing, wheezing, or fragrance-induced asthma.

“Many synthetic musks and solvents used in ‘oil versions’ of popular scents are known to trigger migraines, dizziness, and nausea in sensitive individuals,” the professor explained.

He also warned that some of the chemicals commonly used in such products could interfere with normal hormonal functions.

“Phthalates are used as fixatives to make a cheap scent last longer on the skin. Phthalates mimic or block natural hormones, which have been linked to reduced sperm count in men and developmental issues in children.

“Also, there is an issue of thyroid interference: Certain unregulated chemicals in perfume oils can alter the production of thyroid hormones, potentially affecting metabolism and weight regulation.”

Altraide emphasized that the skin itself could suffer permanent damage from prolonged use of questionable fragrance oils.

“It can lead to permanent structural and functional changes to your skin. When the skin is repeatedly exposed to unknown chemicals, its natural defence system breaks, leading to chronic conditions that are difficult to reverse,” he stated.

He added that some ingredients react dangerously when exposed to sunlight.

“Repeated minor chemical burns from these oils signal your melanocytes (pigment cells) to go into overdrive. This can lead to dark, uneven patches, particularly on the neck and wrists, where perfume is applied.

“A specific form of pigmentation caused by chemicals like Ber gapten (found in some unrefined oils), which creates permanent brown, streak-like stains on the skin after sun exposure,” the don said.

Supporting these concerns, another specialist, Prof. Madubuko Roli, a Professor of Medicine and Dermatology at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, warned that many locally made fragrance products may contain harmful substances capable of triggering serious illnesses.

“Regarding carcinogenic content in locally made perfume oils and deodorants, the impact on the skin can be significant. Some of these products may contain deleterious compounds that can cause harm to users. That is why scrutiny is necessary.”

She noted that the effects of such chemicals often mirror those already observed in unregulated cosmetic products.

“The health implications can be severe. Some compounds used in these products are similar to what we have seen in soaps and creams. Substances like hydroquinone and other harmful chemicals. These same types of compounds can also be present in perfumes and deodorants, and they can cause harm.”

Roli explained that users may initially experience mild reactions which can later develop into more serious conditions.

“People may begin to scratch areas where the products are applied, leading to inflammation, which is very common.

“Some products may also encourage the growth of fungal organisms already present on the skin, worsening infections. Others may contain carcinogenic substances that can predispose skin cells to abnormal changes over time, with long-term consequences,” she said.

The dermatologist called for urgent government action to address the growing problem of unregulated cosmetic products in the country.

“The key issue here is the need for strict scrutiny of products being sold in the market. At the moment, anyone can mix substances at home, package them, and start selling without any form of regulation. This lack of oversight is dangerous.

“Therefore, it is important to ensure that the market is properly regulated and scrutinised so that such practices are not encouraged, and public health is protected,” she said.

Health professionals continue to urge Nigerians to be cautious about the beauty and hygiene products they purchase, advising consumers to choose properly labelled and certified items to reduce avoidable health risks.