The Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) has begun an inquiry against companies involved in the manufacture of substandard skin whitening creams found to contain dangerous levels of mercury.
According to the commission, several well-known brands use banned mercury in their products, without disclosing its presence in marketing or labelling. Mercury in cosmetics is prohibited in many countries due to its harmful effects on human health.
Mercury can cause damage to the nervous system, skin and kidneys. Despite its known dangers, the chemical continues to be used in whitening creams sold under misleading terms such as ‘fairness’ and ‘lightening’.
A fine of up to Rs70 million may be imposed for the sale or promotion of harmful creams, under applicable law.
