By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, May 29: Three cosmetic products, namely N Glowing EWSB, Karisma Golden Turmeric Cream and SL Two Intensive, have been banned from sale in Malaysia after being found to contain scheduled poisons like mercury.
The National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Division (NPRA) under the Ministry of Health (MOH) urged the public not to purchase or use these cosmetic products.
The N Glowing EWSB was found to contain mercury, Karisma Golden Turmeric Cream contained mercury and betamethasone 17-valerate, while SL Two Intensive contains hydroquinone and betamethasone 17-valerate.
Health director-general Datuk Dr Muhammad Radzi Abu Hasan emphasised in a statement today that mercury is prohibited in cosmetic products due to its potential harm, including damage to the kidneys, nervous system, and interference with brain development, particularly in young or unborn children.
“Mercury can also cause skin issues such as rashes and irritations.
“Products containing hydroquinone and betamethasone 17-valerate are classified as medicines that must be registered with the Drug Control Authority and should only be used with the advice of a health professional,” he explained.
Misuse of these ingredients can lead to adverse effects such as an increased risk of skin cancer, skin rashes, hypersensitivity, changes in skin colour, depigmentation, irritation, acne, and other complications.
MOH warned that sellers and distributors must cease selling and distributing these cosmetic products immediately, as their sale violates the Drugs and Cosmetics Control Regulations 1984.
Individuals found violating there these regulations can face fine not exceeding RM25,000 or imprisonment not exceeding three years or both for the first offense, and a fine not exceeding RM50,000 or imprisonment not exceeding five years or both for subsequent offenses.
Companies can be fined up to RM50,000 for the first offense and up to RM100,000 for subsequent offenses.
Dr Muhammad Radzi advised anyone using these products to discontinue use immediately and seek advice from a healthcare professional should they experience any discomfort or adverse effects.
The public is encouraged to check the notification status of cosmetic products on NPRA’s official website or through the ‘NPRA Product Status’ mobile app available on the Google Play Store. — DayakDaily
