Four cosmetics sold in the country were found to be potentially harmful being tested for banned ingredients, said the Ministry of Health.
The Karisma Brightening Day Cream, Karisma Aqua Bird Nest and Karisma Golden Tumeric Cream distributed by Karisma Empayar Sdn Bhd, Kelantan, Malaysia were found to contain mercury and tretinoin, according to the ministry.
Meanwhile, the SCI Beauty Night Scream Pelicin manufactured by BT Berlian Kosmetika, Indonesia was found to be adulterated with tretinoin and hydroquinone.
The adulterants found in these products can cause adverse effects that are potentially hazardous to users, said the ministry.
“Tretinoin and hydroquinone are used in western prescription medicines to treat skin conditions and is prohibited in skincare cosmetic products under the Medicines (Cosmetic Products) Regulations, 2007. Inappropriate use of tretinoin could lead to redness, peeling and scarring of the skin,” said the ministry.
Unsupervised use of Hydroquinone may cause skin hypersensitivity, skin discolouration resulting in gradual darkening of the affected skin area and an increased risk of skin cancer.
Meanwhile, mercury is prohibited in cosmetic products due to its hazardous effects on human health, said the ministry.
“It is readily absorbed through the skin on topical application and tends to accumulate in the body. Exposure to mercury can cause skin rashes, memory loss and muscle weakness while high exposures may result in damage to the brain and kidneys. It is also extremely toxic to unborn children.”
Individuals who have purchased or used these products are advised to stop using them immediately. They should also consult a medical practitioner if they feel unwell or experience any undesirable reactions as a result of using them.
Retail of these products (including online retail such as through Facebook, etc) is an offence under the Medicines (Cosmetic Products) Regulations, 2007, said the ministry.
The penalty for contravening these regulations upon conviction, is a fine of no more than BND5,000, imprisonment for no more than two years or both.
