The Minister of Industry and Trade, Serigne Guèye Diop, addressed parliamentarians in a plenary session to review his ministry's budget. The quality of cosmetic products and artisanal oils sparked a lively debate during the committee review of the Ministry of Industry and Trade's 2026 draft budget. Members of parliament questioned the minister about "the proliferation of dangerous skin-lightening products and the lack of strict controls on certain locally manufactured and marketed oils." Several members expressed serious concerns regarding the widespread availability of skin-lightening products on the Senegalese market, as well as the sale of unregistered artisanal oils, sold without proper health controls or traceability.

According to them, "the use of these products now constitutes a genuine public health problem." Skin-lightening creams with high concentrations of corticosteroids, products containing mercury or hydroquinone, and homemade oils sold in unlabeled bottles with no indication of composition: these are just some of the substances that expose consumers, particularly women and young people, to serious health consequences. "These products destroy the skin, cause irreversible skin diseases, and can have effects on the entire body. Yet, they continue to be sold freely in our markets, our shops, and even on social media," denounced one member of parliament.

Parliamentarians also pointed to "the responsibility of certain traders and influencers who aggressively promote these products," particularly so-called "miracle" oils, presented as quick fixes for skin lightening, enlarging certain body parts, or treating dermatological conditions, without any scientific evidence. Faced with this alarming situation, the MPs called on the Ministry to strengthen control measures, increase seizures of prohibited products, and impose firm sanctions on importers, manufacturers, and sellers of these dangerous substances. They also called for greater public awareness of the dangers associated with the use of skin-lightening products, as well as the establishment of stricter regulations governing the production and marketing of artisanal oils.

In response to the concerns of the members of parliament, the Minister of Industry and Trade, Dr. Serigne Guèye Diop, acknowledged the seriousness of the problem and the urgent need for strong government action. He reiterated that combating skin-lightening products is among his department's priorities, within the framework of consumer protection and market regulation. "We are fully aware of the dangers posed by skin-lightening products and certain non-compliant artisanal oils. These products threaten public health and human dignity. The State cannot tolerate such a situation," he declared before the parliamentarians.

The minister indicated that regular inspection operations are already being carried out by his department, in collaboration with Customs, the Police, the Gendarmerie, and the Ministry of Health. These operations have led to the seizure and destruction of several tons of dangerous cosmetic products in recent years. However, he acknowledged that the phenomenon is evolving rapidly, particularly with online sales and the informal market, which makes the fight more complex.

Regarding artisanal oils, the minister explained that his department is working on developing a specific regulatory framework to govern the industry, require mandatory declarations from manufacturers, and impose minimum quality and packaging standards. "This is not about stifling local initiatives or combating artisanal production, but about protecting the health of our people. We will support reputable producers in achieving compliance and formalizing their operations, while firmly cracking down on dangerous practices," he assured. He also announced the strengthening of awareness campaigns, in partnership with the media, civil society organizations, and community leaders, to inform young people and women about the risks associated with skin lightening.

Towards a strengthening of the regulatory framework

This parliamentary question could mark a turning point in the regulation of the cosmetics and artisanal products sector in Senegal. The members of parliament insisted that a detailed report on the measures taken be submitted to the Committee on Economic Affairs, with clear indicators on the number of seizures, inspections, and sanctions applied.

For many observers, this issue goes beyond mere aesthetics: it touches on public health, education, cultural identity, and self-esteem. In a context where the National Transformation Agenda "Senegal 2050" emphasizes sustainable human development, the fight against skin-lightening products and the regulation of artisanal oils now appear as a health, economic, and societal challenge.