Consumer Warning: Recall of Dark and Lovely Hair Products Issued Due to Bacterial Contamination

The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has issued a warning to consumers regarding the recall of specific hair products due to bacterial contamination. The affected products include 50ml single-use neutralizing shampoo found in Dark and Lovely Moisture Plus Kits (Regular and Super) and Dark and Lovely Anti Breakage Kit.

Deputy Commissioner of the NCC, Thezi Mabuza, advised consumers to immediately cease using the product and return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. The manufacturer, Loreal, identified the presence of harmful bacteria in the 50ml shampoo during routine quality checks.

According to Mabuza, individuals with weakened immune systems are particularly at risk of developing scalp infections from using the contaminated shampoo. The products were manufactured in April 2023 and were distributed both nationally in South Africa and exported to countries such as Zambia, Zimbabwe, Namibia, and others.

The Consumer Protection Act mandates that manufacturers provide goods of high quality that are free from defects. The NCC, a part of the Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition, emphasized the importance of consumer safety and urged all involved parties to prioritize it. The Commission is closely monitoring the recall process in line with its Recall Guidelines.