Detoxifying cosmetics and beauty ideals

#MercuryFreeCosmetics #MinamataCOP6 @minamataconvention

Hundreds of millions of users globally use skin lightening products which are rooted in systemic colorism and cultural norms and pressures that promote certain beauty standards. Around the world, women and men use cosmetic products to lighten their skin, mostly unaware that these products often contain mercury and other hazardous chemicals posing serious risks to human health and the environment. The global industry of skin lightening cosmetics is a huge and fast-growing market relying on and amplifying the preconception that fairer skin is more advantageous.

Now is time to detoxify the cosmetics industry and the toxic beauty ideals fueling it

On 25 April 2025, the Minamata Convention reached a historic milestone as the amendment banning mercury in cosmetics, including skin-lightening soaps, creams and powers, entered into force reconfirming the stand that mercury has no place in self-care products.

UNEP is taking a stand against toxic skin-lightening products—exposing the dangers of harmful chemicals while championing the beauty, inclusion, and equity of all skin tones. Together, we can challenge colorism, stop the manufacture and trade of mercury containing cosmetics, and shift mindsets toward a safer and more inclusive future.

Global voices to influence and change skin lightening practices

Art Exhibition

In the margins of Minamata COP-6 a powerful photographic exhibition was on display on the lakeshore.

27 October to 16 November 2025 - Quai Gustave-Ador - Geneva

Humanae — *© Angélica Dass, 2012-Work in progress*

Humanæ of Angelica Dass is a reflection on the color of the skin, attempting to document humanity’s true colors rather than the untrue labels “white”, “red”, “black” and “yellow” associated with race. Humanæ demonstrates that what defines a human being is its uniqueness and its diversity. Challenging stereotypes and narrow beauty ideals, Humanæ reinforces that mercury has no place in cosmetics and calls for beauty standards that embrace diversity, not toxic chemicals.

Public event and film screening

Minamata COP6 public event – Movie screening and panel discussion

Thursday 6 November 2025 - 18:15 to 20:15 - Graduate Institute - Geneva

Leading voices including the UN and influential artists and changemakers shared stories, solutions, and a vision for a safer, more equitable future. The event concluded with the screening of Timpi Tampa, a Senegalese movie that uses humor and emotion to challenge toxic beauty standards and celebrates the power of diversity.

Policy event

Minamata COP6 policy event: Global voices and solutions to reduce demand for mercury and skin lightening

Wednesday 5 November 2025 - 14:00 to 14:45 - CICG Geneva

This dynamic panel brought together government leaders, community advocates, celebrities, and private sector voices to share real-world solutions—from public education and policy reform to ethical consumer choices. The discussion spotlighted the urgent need to address mercury in skin lightening products—a global issue that affects public health, the environment, and social justice. It explored how to reduce demand for harmful cosmetics and challenge the beauty ideals that fuel their use.