The Ministry of Health (MoH) has issued a warning to the public regarding two cosmetic products found to contain undeclared, scheduled poisons, making them unsafe for use.
The affected products, identified through testing by the Laboratory of Pharmacy Section, Department of Scientific Services, MoH, were found to contain Hydroquinone, a substance prohibited in skincare cosmetic products under the Medicines (Cosmetic Products) Regulations. The products are:
Perfect Formula by Brilliant Skin Essentials Extra Strength Filter-Free Exfoliating Facial Set – Facial Toner (Manufactured in the Philippines)
Perfect Formula by Brilliant Skin Essentials Extra Strength Filter-Free Exfoliating Facial Set – Facial Cream (Manufactured in the Philippines)
According to the ministry, Hydroquinone is a substance used in western prescription medicine for treating skin conditions. However, its unsupervised use may lead to skin hypersensitivity, discoloration, and an increased risk of skin cancer.
As these products have not been granted importation approval or a Cosmetic Notification Acknowledgement Letter by the Ministry of Health, they are now prohibited from sale in Brunei Darussalam.
The public is advised to immediately discontinue the use of these products and seek medical advice if they experience any adverse reactions.
Retailing these banned products, including online sales via platforms like Facebook, is an offence under the Medicines (Cosmetic Products) Regulations, 2007. Offenders could face a fine of up to BND5,000, imprisonment of up to two years, or both.
The Ministry of Health urges the public to report any sightings of these banned products in the local market. Reports can be made to the Compliance and Licensing Section via telephone at 2393301 (extension 208), email at pharmacy.enforcement@moh.gov.bn, or by visiting the Department of Pharmaceutical Services’ Building in Kg Madaras, Mukim Gadong A. Reports can also be made via Talian Darussalam 123. – James Kon
