India issues alert against Pakistan-made whitening creams over health risks

The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) has issued a public health alert over two unauthorised whitening creams made in Pakistan, warning consumers against buying or using the products.

The products flagged by the drug regulator are Goree Beauty Cream and Chandni Whitening Cream. According to CDSCO, testing found excessive heavy metals in both products, beyond the specified limits, which may pose health risks including toxic effects.

CDSCO flags two whitening creams

The regulator said both products are unauthorised and have not been issued registration certificates for import into India by the competent authority.

In its September 8 public notice, CDSCO said, "Public Health alert against the use of unauthorised cosmetic products- regarding cosmetic products used by consumers, must be safe for the public. Their manufacturing and import are regulated under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, and the Cosmetics Rules, 2020. Standards for cosmetic products are published by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).

To manufacture cosmetics for sale and distribution, a license must be obtained from the State Licensing Authority. For the import of cosmetics, the products must be registered with the Central Licensing Authority in accordance with the prescribed rules."

The warning comes as the regulator reiterated that cosmetics sold in India are subject to manufacturing, import and safety requirements.

What consumers should do

CDSCO has advised people not to purchase either Goree Beauty Cream or Chandni Whitening Cream. Those who have already bought the products have also been told not to use them, including similarly named products.

"Not to purchase above mentioned cosmetics products

Further, the members of the public are also advised to purchase & use authorised cosmetics products containing details of the manufacturing license number and the manufacturer's details. batch number. date of manufacturing & expiry, and Registration number (in case of imported cosmetics)" the notice said.

Check labels before buying cosmetics

The regulator has urged consumers to check product packaging for details such as the manufacturing licence number, manufacturer's information, batch number, manufacturing and expiry dates and, for imported cosmetics, the registration number.

CDSCO's public notice confirms that the two flagged products were identified through its testing and analysis as unauthorised cosmetics containing excessive heavy metals.