Singapore’s HSA recalls 18 cosmetic products

Singapore Government agency Health Sciences Authority (HSA) has issued a public alert regarding the use of 18 skin whitening and anti-acne products.

During tests conducted by HSA, the products were found to contain potent and undeclared ingredients, including high levels of mercury, hydroquinone and tretinoin.

Large quantities of hydroquinone could cause rashes, redness, a burning sensation and skin colour changes, while Tretinoin may cause redness and peeling.

Some of the products contained more than 27,000 times the permissible levels of mercury, an ingredient that can cause rashes, skin discolouration and blotching.

The HSA has advised customers to immediately stop using these products and to buy products from reliable sources such as registered pharmacies and established retail stores in the future.

The agency has also warned sellers and suppliers to stop the supplying the identified cosmetics immediately. If found selling illegal health products, the businesses may be imprisoned for three years or fined up to $100,000.