UNBS warns women on unsafe hair relaxers, releases list of certified brands

The Bureau on Tuesday issued a statement calling on the public to opt for products certified by the body bearing the UNBS Quality Mark to ensure they are using safe and effective hair care products.

“It is our mandate to ensure that we develop, promote and enforcing standards to protect consumers and the environment against dangerous and substandard products," the statement reads.

UNBS as such released the following list of locally manufactured 22 hair relaxer brands on the Ugandan market, which it has certified.

UNBS Offers Guidance for Safe Hair Relaxer Use

UNBS offers valuable advice to empower consumers to make informed choices when purchasing and using hair relaxers:

• 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.

Reporting Substandard Products

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.