​COSMETIC PRODUCT FOUND ADULTERATED

The Ministry of Health would like to alert members of the public on ONE cosmetic product, which have been tested by the Laboratory of Pharmacy Section, Department of Scientific Services, Ministry of Health and found to be adulterated with undeclared, banned ingredient.

The affected cosmetic products are listed below:

The adulterant found in this product can cause adverse effects that are potentially hazardous to the people using them.

Mercury is a potent ingredient that is prohibited in cosmetic products as stipulated in the Medicines (Cosmetic Products) Regulations, 2007.

Mercury is prohibited in cosmetic products due to its hazardous effects on human health. 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.

Members of the public who have purchased or have used the products are advised to stop using it immediately. They should also consult a medical practitioner if they feel unwell or experience any undesirable reactions as a result of using the products.

Retail of the products (including online retail such as through Facebook, etc.) is an offence under the Medicines (Cosmetic Products) Regulations, 2007. The penalty for contravening these regulations upon conviction, is a fine not exceeding $5,000, imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years or both.

The Ministry of Health would also like to call upon the public for their cooperation to report to the Compliance and Licensing Section if any of these products are still found on the market in this country.

For further information and communication, the public may contact the Compliance and Licensing Section at 2393301extension 208; send an e-mail to pharmacy.enforcement@moh.gov.bn; go directly to 1^st Floor, Compliance and Licensing Section, Department of Pharmaceutical Services' Building, Kg. Madaras, Mukim Gadong A; or call the Talian Darussalam 123.

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Reference     : KK/PR/1

Date              : 04 March 2024M / 23 Syaaban 1445H