The New York City health department recently issued a warning about the dangers of using skin-lightening creams containing elevated levels of mercury. These products, predominantly from Pakistan and Thailand, were found to contain up to 30,000 times the allowable level of mercury in cosmetics. As a result, the health department has removed 1,820 of these products from local stores, due to the serious health risks they pose.
Skin-lightening creams are often used to whiten or lighten the skin, as well as to address issues such as freckles, acne, wrinkles, under-eye circles, and other skin blemishes. However, the cultural pressure to conform to beauty standards that favor lighter skin tones can lead people of color to use these products, even if it means jeopardizing their health. Acting Health Commissioner Michelle Morse emphasized this point, highlighting the impact of racism on beauty standards and the health risks associated with skin-lightening products.
If you are a New Yorker who has used these skin-lightening creams, it is crucial to stop using them immediately and consult your doctor for urine and blood mercury tests. Exposure to mercury can have serious health consequences, including skin rashes, respiratory issues, nerve damage, kidney damage, and an increased risk of miscarriage during pregnancy. The Food and Drug Administration prohibits the use of mercury in drugs and cosmetics, except under specific conditions, and advises consumers to check product labels for mercury-containing ingredients.
Expert Insights on Skin-Lightening Creams
WE Act for Environmental Justice, a New York-based organization, conducted tests on some of the skin-lightening products identified by the health department. The results revealed alarming levels of mercury, with one container containing 29,000 parts per million of the toxic substance. This underscores the urgent need for stricter regulations on these products and increased consumer awareness about the potential health hazards they pose.
The FDA has not approved any over-the-counter skin-lightening products, and manufacturers and distributors have been instructed to remove these products from shelves and online platforms. In addition to mercury, some skin-lightening creams contain hydroquinone, a key ingredient that can lead to permanent skin discoloration, rashes, and facial swelling. New Yorkers are encouraged to report the sale of prohibited products in local stores by calling 311, to prevent further exposure to harmful substances.
If you have skin-lightening products containing mercury, do not dispose of them in the trash. Instead, place them in a Ziploc bag and take them to a sanitation department disposal event designated for “SAFE” products, which include solvents, automotive items, flammables, and electronics. This ensures safe and proper disposal of these hazardous substances, protecting both individuals and the environment from potential harm.
