Federal health officials are warning consumers to avoid a growing number of skin lightening products found to contain mercury, hydroquinone or both ingredients, indicating the cosmetics may pose serious health risks and are being sold through major online marketplaces despite longstanding safety concerns.
In an FDA consumer alert announced on June 1, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported that investigators and state health officials have identified numerous skin lightening, whitening, bleaching and brightening products that contain potentially harmful ingredients.
The products were found to be available through online retailers, including Amazon, Etsy, eBay, Walmart and other websites. They include African Queen Strong Bleaching Treatment, Omni Gold, Face Fresh Beauty Cream and others. A full list of affected brands can be found in the FDA alert.
