Hydroquinone containing cosmetics being sold illegally in Durban MyZA

The eThekwini Municipalitys Health Unit has become aware of and confiscated consignments of illegally imported cosmetics containing substances such as Hydroquinoone which are banned in terms of the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act (Act 54 of 1972). Such cosmetics are used to lighten skin and contain substances which can burn the skin and cause irreparable damage.

Significant quantities of these products were seized from general retail businesses and street traders in the Tongaat and Verulam areas by the Environmental Health Section of the eThekwini Health Unit. In terms of Regulation 394 framed under the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act No. 54 of 1972, it is illegal to sell or manufacture or import for sale any cosmetic product that contain Hydroquinone and its monobenzyl, monoethyl and monomethyl ethers.

The Health Unit advises that the importation, manufacture and sale of cosmetics containing Hydroquinone has been banned for many years due to the potentially serious health risks associated with its use.

It appears that these cosmetics have been illegally imported into the country from various countries which include India, The Democratic Republic of Congo, England and Cote d Ivoire. There are a number of health risks associated with the use of such products. Common side effects include skin crusting or flaking, redness and itching. As the product is often applied to the sensitive facial areas, severe scaring may result. More severe reactions may also include chest pains, breathing difficulties and swelling of the skin especially in the facial area.

Some of the products seized include the following brands,

EXTRA CLAIR: Lightening Beauty Cream (300ml AND 120Ml) Manufactured in India
CARO light: Lightening Beauty Cream (300ml and 120ml) Manufactured in the Democratic Republic of Congo
CARO light: Lightening lotion (30ml) Manufactured in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Bio Claire: Lightening Lotion (30ml) Manufactured in Cote d Ivoire
CARO Light: Skin lightening oil (50ml) Manufactured in the Democratic Republic of Congo
EXTRA Claire: Body lightening soap (100g) Manufactured in Kinshasa, Congo
EXTRA Claire: Lightening Body Cream ((50g) no manufacture details
RICO complexion cream: (50g) Manufactured in Egham, England

The Health Unit is extending its surveillance operations for these products to other areas of the eThekwini Municipality and similar actions will follow should illegal products be identified. An appeal is also made to members of the public, wholesalers and retailers who may be aware of such products to provide such information to the Health Unit.

Contact with the Health Unit can be made on 031 311 3555.

Editor’s Notes: Hydroquinone is commonly found in products marketed to lighten the skin, and is one of the most toxic ingredients still used in cosmetics. It is marketed most aggressively to women of colour who also tend to use a greater number of beauty care products.