DoH warns against these dangerous cosmetic products

The Department of Health, the regulatory body of the healthcare sector in Abu Dhabi, continues to work with government agencies and authorities to prevent trading and circulation of cosmetic products used for skin brightening, containing toxic substances such as mercury and hydrocarbon.

The department warned against using the (Aneeza Saffron) cream, which is used to lighten the skin and eliminate plaque, and is sold in many shops in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.

The results of the laboratory analysis showed that the product contains high levels of mercury, which pose a serious health risk, especially in certain people, such as children and pregnant women. Symptoms include nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting, muscle cramps, diarrhea, heart problems, anemia, liver and digestive problems.

The department also warned against the use of another product, named “Goree Buauty Cream”, which is also used for skin brightening, and is sold in stores across Abu Dhabi, noting that laboratory analysis proved that this products contains hydrocarbon, and a high percentage of mercury.

The Department of Health explained that hydrocarbon is a drug used to treat skin problems, but it is not disposed of only by prescription, and is limited to selling in pharmacies only, because the material causes a severe redness of the skin, burning and a sense of tingling and dehydration and rupture of the skin and the exit of liquid from the skin, .

DoH also recommended that these products not be used, and that any complaint concerning the quality of pharmaceutical products or any side effects arising from the products should be reported to the drug vigilance program.