High levels of mercury found in 9 skin whitening creams, says CAP

CAP president Mohideen Abdul Kader.

GEORGE TOWN: The Consumers Association of Penang (CAP) says it has found worrying levels of mercury in nine popular face creams which may cause kidney damage and other health issues in the long run.

It said lab tests had found mercury levels as high as 44,148 parts per million or ppm in the creams, some of which were also counterfeit.

Mercury is a common component of skin lightening products and helps extend their shelf life. The US Food and Drug Administration’s limit for mercury in cosmetic products is less than 1ppm.

CAP president Mohideen Abdul Kader and research officer Hatijah Hashim (left) explaining the high levels of mercury found in the skin whitening creams.

Speaking at a press conference here today, CAP president Mohideen Abdul Kader said many such face creams are still widely available despite government bans.

He cited a survey which found that at least 41% of Malaysians use skin whitening products, some for close to 20 years.

He said face creams with high levels of mercury are often marketed as able to prevent or improve freckles and pimples, but warned that regular application could lead to problems.

The nine creams found by CAP to contain high levels of mercury.

He gave examples of individuals who had developed rashes, skin discolouration and blotching.

Some had also experienced mercury poisoning, abdominal pains, vomiting, ashy coloration of the mouth and bloody diarrhoea, he said.

“We call on the health ministry to seize all these creams and enforce bans on creams deemed to be dangerous for use,” he said, adding that shops selling these products should be kept under surveillance as well. - FMT