Shipping Hair and Beauty Products to Nigeria: What Is Allowed
Wigs, extensions, skincare and make-up are among the most popular things sent from the UK. Here is how to send them, and the products that cause trouble.
Written by
R-Zone Compliance Team
Published on
20 October 2026
Quick Answer
Wigs, hair extensions, skincare and make-up can be shipped to Nigeria. Skin-lightening creams containing hydroquinone or mercury are banned, aerosols and perfumes are restricted by air, and cosmetics for resale must be registered with NAFDAC.
- Fine to ship
- Wigs, extensions, skincare, make-up
- Banned
- Bleaching and skin-lightening creams
- Not by air
- Aerosols, most perfumes
- For resale
- NAFDAC registration
In This Article
The UK to Nigeria beauty trade
Hair and beauty products are some of the most popular items our customers send, both as gifts and as stock for salons and online shops. Most products travel without problems; a few are banned or cannot fly. Here is how to tell the difference.
What ships easily
- Wigs and hair extensions, including human hair bundles and closures
- Skincare such as cleansers, moisturisers and serums in sealed packs
- Make-up: foundation, powder, lipstick and palettes
- Hair care: shampoo, conditioner and styling products, well sealed
- Tools: straighteners, dryers and clippers (UK plugs are widely used in Nigeria)
What is banned or restricted
| Product | Status |
|---|---|
| Bleaching or skin-lightening creams (hydroquinone, mercury) | Prohibited |
| Counterfeit branded cosmetics | Prohibited |
| Aerosols (hairspray, dry shampoo) | Not by air |
| Perfume and nail polish | Usually not by air |
| Nail polish remover (acetone) | Not by air |
See the full prohibited items list.
Shipping beauty products to sell
Cosmetics imported for sale must be registered with NAFDAC. Without registration, commercial quantities can be held or seized. Many sellers start with small personal-use quantities to test demand, then register their best-selling lines. Our guides to profitable products and starting a UK to Nigeria business cover the next steps.
Packing liquids and creams
- Tape every lid shut and put each bottle in its own sealed bag.
- Pack bottles upright in the middle of the box, cushioned on all sides.
- Keep liquids away from hair and fabrics in case of a leak.
- Mark the box "This way up".
Call +44 (0) 800 772 0864 or WhatsApp +44 7915 647119 and a member of our UK team will help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I send wigs and hair extensions to Nigeria?
Yes. Wigs and hair extensions ship easily by air or sea. For business stock, declare quantities and values accurately on a commercial invoice.
Which beauty products are banned in Nigeria?
Skin-lightening and bleaching creams, especially those containing hydroquinone or mercury, are prohibited. Counterfeit cosmetics are also prohibited.
Can perfume go by air freight?
Most perfumes contain alcohol and are classed as flammable, so they are restricted on aircraft. They usually need to travel by sea, packed upright and sealed. Ask us before booking.
Do I need NAFDAC registration to sell cosmetics?
Yes. Cosmetics imported for sale in Nigeria must be registered with NAFDAC. Personal-use quantities do not need registration.
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