Singapore detects high levels of mercury in whitening cream product

An image of the product (Source: Singapore's Health Sciences Authority)

Hanoi (VNA) – High levels of mercury were detected in the "Royal Expert” whitening cream, announced Singapore's Health Sciences Authority (HSA) in a press release on May 22.

HSA cautioned the public not to purchase or use the whitening cream mentioned above.

In the press release, HSA said it was alerted by the Consumers Association of Singapore, which tested a range of skincare products recently and found the online-sold product contains high levels of mercury.

HSA then tested several samples of the product taken from various online platforms and the results showed that all of them have high mercury levels.

The authority warned sellers to stop selling the cream and said anyone who supplies illegal health products is liable to prosecution and if convicted, they may face up to three years in jail and/or submit fine of up to 100,000 SGD (72,080 USD).

The use of mercury in cosmetic products could lead to rash, skin discoloration and blotching. Chronic exposure to high levels of mercury in cosmetic products may also affect the kidney and nerve system as it can be absorbed through the skin.-VNA