FDA warns over toxic cosmetics

The federal health agency has issued a statement saying that 35 potentially poisonous products have been found in at least seven states that contain high levels of the toxic metal Mercury.

All the named goods include those made abroad and sold illegally in the US as skin lightener, anti-aging, antiseptic and anti-wrinkle, said national health fraud coordinator in the FDA’s Office of Regulatory Affairs Gary Coody.

The products include some sold by the brands Diana, Stillman’s, Lusco and Crema Aguamary which are usually marketed illegally in shops or online.

“Many of these products are coming into the country through channels we can’t easily track, such as international mail and personal baggage,” Coody said. “That’s why it’s so important for consumers and sellers to know about the dangers of possible mercury poisoning associated with the use of these skin products.”

Mercury is highly toxic and can cause severe health consequences in adults, children and even unborn babies. Long term exposure to the toxic metal can damage kidneys, the nervous system and affect brain development of fetuses.

Short-term exposure can cause dizziness, vomiting, headache, tremors, changes to vision or hearing, irritability, depression, numbness and tingling in hands, feet or around the mouth, said FDA experts warning that even inhaling the contaminated products can be harmful.

The FDA recommended consumers read the product label and avoid those containing chemicals including mercurous chloride, mercuric, mercurio or mercury.

SJM/TE

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