Excessive mercury and lead found in overnight whitening creams, how much harm does it cause?

Maharashtra FDA Warning On Fairness Creams: Serious questions have now been raised on many creams that claim to make the skin fair and glowing in a few days. Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration has warned people to avoid using these cosmetic products after finding mercury and lead several times more than the prescribed limits in five such cosmetic products. The investigation also revealed that even important information like manufacturing and expiry date was not given on some products. After this, investigation has been started regarding the manufacturing and sale of these products.

Questions raised regarding which products?

The products whose names have come to light in the FDA investigation include Goree Beauty Cream, Goree Beauty Whitening Body Lotion, Goree Whitening Soap, Face Fresh Gold Plus and Golden Star Beauty Cream. Experts say that these heavy metals can be extremely harmful for the body and if used for a long time, the risk of serious diseases can increase.

How much danger does this pose?

According to Dr. Tushar Palve, mercury is illegally added to skin whitening creams because it stops the process of melanin formation. Due to this, within 10 to 15 days the skin starts appearing fairer than before. However, its continuous use can cause serious damage to the kidneys, brain and other body parts. He says that if the amount of mercury in the cream is very high, then the effect on the kidneys can start within 10 to 12 days, whereas even if the amount is less, the damage gradually increases with daily use for several months.

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Not only the skin, these also get harmed

However, its effect is not limited to the skin only. Mercury can enter the body through the skin and accumulate in the kidneys and bone marrow. According to doctors, due to this, the functioning of the kidneys gradually gets affected and in severe cases, it may even lead to dialysis. Apart from this, neurological problems like hand tremors, poor memory, anxiety, insomnia, irritability and lack of concentration can also occur. In some cases, the ability to hear and see may also be affected.

Avoid using any cream

During investigation, lead was also found to be more than the prescribed limit. According to experts, lead has no scientific use in skin whitening. Its presence indicates poor quality raw materials or unsafe manufacturing process. Lead can accumulate in the body and cause damage to the brain, kidneys, blood producing organs and reproductive system. Doctors say that no amount of lead is considered completely safe and the health risks increase further if it comes in contact with mercury. Skin experts advise to avoid using any cream just to look fair. If there is a problem of spots or pigmentation on the face, then first get it checked by a skin expert.

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Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.

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