Uganda Bureau Of Standards (UBOS) on Tuesday issued a statement calling on salon owners and users of hair products to look out for only those bearing the UNBS Quality Mark to ensure they are using safe and effective hair care products.
This followed reports on scientific findings, confirming that certain products used as hair relaxers put users at a risk of cancer(s).
In line with it’s mandate of developing, promoting and enforcing standards to protect consumers and the environment against dangerous and substandard products, UNBS listed 22 certified brands of locally manufactured hair relaxers.
In a statement issued on 19th March 2024, the product’s standards body also provided guidance on seven (7) UNBS standards that specify requirements for quality hair relaxers and hair waving products.
Bellow are UNBS certified brands manufactured in Uganda as at 14th March 2024:
According to UNBS, all hair relaxers locally manufactured in Uganda are certified in line with the prescribed standards and all imported Hair relaxers are inspected through the Pre -export Verification of Conformity (PVoC) Program in their respective exporting countries before shipment to Uganda in line with the standards, which means that they are safe for consumption.
The standards are also harmonised with in the East African community member states and this means that all goods locally manufactured in Uganda and certified by UNBS can be sold beyond the Ugandan borders without quality disruptions -according to UNBS.
Additional guidance was provided be UNBS in regards to hair relaxers as follows;
Look for the UNBS Quality Mark: This mark signifies a product’s adherence to safety standards.
Purchase from Certified Retailers: Buy from reputable companies or established stores and always request a receipt. This facilitates traceability in case of any concerns.
Intact Packaging is Essential: Ensure the hair relaxer’s packaging is undamaged and securely sealed. Avoid buying or using products with compromised packaging, as their safety cannot be guaranteed.
Ingredient Awareness: Before purchasing, check the list of ingredients to avoid products containing allergens or prohibited substances. The ingredient list should be clearly displayed on the packaging.
Understanding Usage Instructions: Read and comprehend the user information provided on the product label. This information details the proper application methods to ensure safe and effective use.
Expiry Dates Matter: Always check the expiry date or “best before” date before buying or using hair relaxers. Avoid expired products altogether.
Manufacturer Contact Information: Look for the manufacturer’s physical address and contact details on the packaging. This allows for traceability in case of product-related issues. Avoid poorly labeled products.
Heed Usage and Storage Guidelines: Pay attention to the instructions for use, storage recommendations, and any precautions or warnings displayed on the hair relaxer packaging. Following these guidelines is crucial for safe use.
UNBS encourages the public to report any retailers selling uncertified or substandard hair relaxers. Reporting channels include the UNBS Toll-Free Lines: 0800133133/0800233233 or their WhatsApp line: 0713227580.
