Consumers have been urged to stop using the 50ml single-use neutralising shampoo in Dark and Lovely Moisture Plus Kits (Regular and Super) and Dark and Lovely Anti Breakage Kit immediately due to the risk of scalp infections.
This advisory follows the detection of bacteria in these products during routine quality control checks by the manufacturer, L’Oreal.
Bacterial contamination discovered
L’Oreal informed the National Consumer Commission (NCC) of the contamination, revealing the presence of bacteria in the 50ml single-use neutralising shampoo during their regular quality inspections.
NCC Deputy Commissioner Thezi Mabuza issued a statement on Friday, urging consumers to cease using the affected shampoo and return it to the point of purchase for a full refund.
“We urge South Africans who might still have these products in their possession to stop use and return to the point of purchase for a full refund,” said Mabuza.
Mabuza highlighted that, while the shampoo is designed for single use, it poses a significant risk to individuals with compromised immune systems, potentially leading to scalp infections.
Widespread Dark and Lovely shampoo distribution raises concern
The contaminated product, produced in April 2023, has seen wide distribution both within South Africa and to neighboring countries, including Zambia, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Kenya, Ghana, Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Morocco, and Nigeria.
This broad distribution heightens the urgency of the NCC’s warning, as consumers across multiple regions could be at risk.
Authorities are taking this matter seriously and advising all consumers who have purchased the affected products to take immediate action.
