Tanzania bans over 100 cosmetic products amid health concerns
DAR ES SALAAM – The Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS) has released an extensive list of banned cosmetic products, citing health risks associated with hazardous ingredients such as hydroquinone, mercury, steroids, and other prohibited chemicals.
The move is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to protect consumers from harmful skin-lightening and beauty products that have been linked to severe health complications, including skin disorders and long-term internal damage.
The banned products, which include popular brands such as Fair & White, Bio Claire, Clear Essence, and Peau Claire, range from creams and lotions to soaps, gels, and serums.
Many of these products contain hydroquinone, a chemical widely used in skin-lightening products but associated with increased risks of skin cancer, ochronosis (a skin disorder causing permanent discoloration), and organ toxicity.
Skin-lightening products have long been a subject of controversy in Tanzania and across Africa, where societal beauty standards often promote lighter skin tones. 
Despite efforts by the government and health authorities to curb their usage, these products remain popular, especially among young women.
The inclusion of mercury-based creams and soaps on the banned list is particularly alarming, as mercury is known to cause kidney damage, neurological disorders, and birth defects.
Other products contain steroids and hormones, which, when misused, can lead to severe skin thinning, increased risk of infections, and hormonal imbalances.
TBS has urged businesses and consumers to comply with the ban, warning that enforcement measures will be taken against those found selling or distributing these illegal products.
Retailers have been given a strict deadline to remove banned items from their shelves, and consumers are encouraged to report any stores or individuals still supplying them.
“The safety and well-being of Tanzanians is our top priority,” a TBS spokesperson stated. “We are working with law enforcement agencies to ensure these harmful products are completely removed from the market.”
Health experts are also advising consumers to be cautious and to seek alternative skincare solutions that are safe, natural, and approved by regulatory bodies.
With this crackdown, the Tanzanian government hopes to raise awareness about the dangers of unregulated cosmetic products and promote healthier beauty standards. Authorities are also considering stricter import regulations to prevent banned products from re-entering the market through unofficial channels.
Consumers are encouraged to check the official TBS website for a full list of banned cosmetics and report any retailers still selling these dangerous products.
