HSA Alerts Public to Two Cosmetic Products Sold Online That Were Found With High Mercury Levels
The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) is alerting members of the public to two cosmetic products sold online, ‘Pati IbuPutih by Janna Lawwa Day Creamy FACE n BODY WHITE (PUTIH GEBU KEKAL)’ and ‘Pati IbuPutih by Janna Lawwa Night Creamy FACE n BODY WHITE (PUTIH GEBU KEKAL)’, which were found to contain high levels of mercury. The products were detected through HSA’s ongoing market surveillance activities. Our investigations showed that these products were marketed for skin whitening on various online platforms such as blogs and shopping websites. Members of the public are advised to stop using and discard the affected products as the high levels of mercury can lead to serious adverse reactions. Please refer to Annex A of the pdf version for pictures of the products.
2 Mercury is prohibited for use as an ingredient in cosmetic products, and may cause rashes, skin irritation and blotchiness of the skin. Chronic exposure to high levels of mercury in cosmetic products may affect the kidneys and nervous system as it can be absorbed through the skin.
Consumer advisory
3 Members of the public are advised to:
I. Stop using and discard any of these products you have in your possession. If you experience any adverse effects or are concerned about your health after using the affected products, please seek medical attention as soon as possible.
II. Be aware of the risks of purchasing products online as it may be difficult to be certain about their source and conditions under which they were manufactured. They may be illegal, counterfeit or substandard, and may contain undeclared ingredients which can harm your health.
Members of the public are encouraged to visit www.healthdangers.sg to learn more about the dangers of buying illegal health products from dubious sources.
Sale and supply of illegal products
4 It is an offence for any person to import, sell and supply an illegal or unapproved health product. Anyone found guilty of an offence under the Heath Products Act is liable to a fine of up to $100,000 and/or imprisonment for a term of up to three years. HSA takes a serious view against those engaged in the sale and supply of illegal health products and will take strong enforcement action against such persons.
5 Members of the public who have any information on the sale and supply of these illegal products or other illegal products may contact HSA's Enforcement Branch at Tel: 6866 3485 during office hours (Monday to Friday) or email: hsa_is@hsa.gov.sg.
HEALTH SCIENCES AUTHORITY
SINGAPORE
9 JUNE 2015
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Consumer, Healthcare professional, Industry member
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