The Common Market for East and Southern Africa (COMESA) competition authority has warned its member states against the sale and use of unsafe shampoo, which has been reported to have penetrated the South Africa market.

The warning comes after the National Consumer Commission (NCC) in South Africa recalled the 50ML single-use neutralizing shampoo contained in Dark and Lovely Moisture Plus Kits, including Regular, Super, and Dark and Lovely Anti Breakage Kit for containing bacteria, which may lead to scalp infections to users with weakened immune systems.

“COMESA has become aware of the recall of 50ml single use neutralizing shampoo contained in Dark and Lovely Moisture Plus Kits (Regular, and Super) and Dark and Lovely Anti Breakage Kit for containing bacteria by NCC.”

In a statement, the Commission urged persons possessing the 50ml single-use neutralizing shampoo manufactured by L’Oréal in South Africa to immediately discontinue use and return the product to the point of sale for a full refund.

NCC stated that they detected bacteria in the recalled 50ml single-use neutralizing shampoo during their regular quality controls, urging citizens to exercise caution.

“Pursuant to Article 30(1)(b) of the COMESA Competition Regulations, the Commission hereby informs the public in the respective countries of the risks associated with the product in question and wishes to advise consumers to avoid purchasing or using it,” the Commission urged.

The recalled product, produced in April 2023, was exported to COMESA Member states, including Kenya, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Eswatini.

“The Commission has further written to L’Oréal -South Africa, the manufacturer of the product, requesting them to Recall the products in question from all affected Member States and Provide the Commission with reports on the progress of the recall."