Qu Puteh contains mercury, Health Ministry bans sale

The Health Ministry has banned the sale of two cosmetic products by Vida Beauty Sdn Bhd which were found to contain high levels of mercury.

In a statement, the ministry advised anyone in possession of cosmetic products Qu Puteh Whitening Pro 9 and Qu Puteh Whitening UV Block to immediately stop selling, distributing and using the products.

"The above cosmetic product has been tested and detected to contain mercury which is prohibited in cosmetic products. Cosmetic product Qu Puteh Whitening Pro 9 is no longer allowed to be sold in Malaysia," the ministry said in the statement.

"The National Pharmaceutical Control Bureau (NPCB), Ministry of Health Malaysia had received a report of adverse effects of tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and hair loss from a consumer following the use of cosmetic products Qu Puteh Whitening Pro 9 and Qu Puteh Whitening UV Block for about three months. The conditions resolved after stopping use," it said.

The ministry said the NPCB had sampled and tested both Qu Puteh Whitening Pro 9 and Qu Puteh Whitening UV Block and results showed that Qu Puteh Whitening Pro 9 was found to contain a high level of mercury.

Cosmetic products adulterated with mercury are usually marketed for skin lightening and anti ageing treatments such as for freckles, blemishes and wrinkles, the ministry said.

"Such products are prohibited and can cause harm to human health. Exposure to mercury can damage the kidneys and the nervous system. It may also interfere with the development of the brain in unborn and very young children," it further said.

"The notification of Qu Puteh Whitening Pro 9 has been cancelled and the company responsible for placing the product in the market have been instructed to immediately stop its sale and supply and to remove all physical stocks from the market within 72 hours," it said.