The National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (NPRA) of the Malaysian Ministry of Health is cautioning the public to avoid purchasing and using certain cosmetic products found to contain scheduled poisons.
The announcement, dated December 6, 2023, identifies the products and associated toxins, emphasizing the potential health risks.
Cosmetic Products and Detected Scheduled Poisons:
- Bestie Moisturizer Cream
- Detected Poison: Mercury
- Abyra Seaweed Skin Care- Seaweed Cell Renewal Night Cream
- Detected Poison: Mercury
- Gerbera Beauty – Treatment & Repairing Night Cream
- Detected Poisons: Hydroquinone, Tretinoin, and Betamethasone 17-Valerate
- Gerbera Beauty – Whitening Night Cream
- Detected Poisons: Mercury and Betamethasone 17-Valerate
Following this discovery, the notification for the implicated cosmetic products has been revoked by the Director of Pharmaceutical Services, Malaysian Ministry of Health. These products are no longer authorized for sale in Malaysia.
Warning to Sellers and Distributors: Sellers and distributors of these cosmetic products are urged to immediately cease the sale and distribution of the mentioned items. Such actions are considered violations of the Control of Drugs and Cosmetics Regulations 1984.
Individuals found in violation of these regulations may face fines up to RM25,000 or imprisonment up to 3 years, or both, for the first offense.
Subsequent offenses may result in fines up to RM50,000, imprisonment up to 5 years, or both. Companies found in violation may face fines up to RM50,000 for the first offense and fines up to RM100,000 for subsequent offenses.
Public Advisory: The public is advised to discontinue the use of these cosmetic products immediately and seek advice from healthcare professionals if they experience any discomfort or adverse effects.
Individuals are encouraged to verify the notification status of cosmetic products by visiting the official NPRA website www.npra.gov.my or through the ‘NPRA Product Status’ application available for download from the Google Play Store.
About Scheduled Poisonous Substances: Mercury is prohibited in cosmetic products due to its potential harm to health, leading to kidney and nervous system damage.
It can be absorbed into the body, causing adverse effects, especially in small children or unborn infants. Mercury exposure can result in skin rashes, irritation, and other skin changes.
Products containing hydroquinone, tretinoin, and betamethasone 17-valerate are classified as drugs that require registration with the Drug Control Authority and should only be used under the supervision of healthcare professionals. Unauthorized use of these products may lead to unintended side effects.
This warning serves as a crucial reminder for consumers to be vigilant and prioritize their health and safety when selecting cosmetic products.
