Operation Soundarya: Pakistan-made face creams with dangerous mercury levels, cosmetics worth lakhs seized

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Pakistan-made face creams were among cosmetics worth nearly ₹10 lakh seized by the Drug Control Department for being manufactured and distributed without licences and in violation of cosmetic standards. The seizures were made as part of ‘Operation Soundarya’, launched to prevent the sale of fake cosmetic products. Samples collected during the operation have been sent to Drug Testing Laboratories for examination.

Some lipstick and face cream samples were found to contain mercury above the permitted limit and were withdrawn from the market. The products can cause serious skin diseases and other health problems. Legal action has been initiated against the manufacturers and distributors. Lipsticks, baby powder, baby soap and baby oil were among the products collected and subjected to quality testing.

Minister K Muraleedharan said only cosmetics with valid licences and those meeting quality standards would be allowed to be sold. Suspicious cosmetic products and violations can be reported on the toll-free number 1800-425-3182.

Excess mercury found in face-whitening creams

The uncontrolled use of products, including face-whitening creams, has been found to cause health problems. While only 1 ppm (parts per million) of mercury is permitted in face creams, levels of up to 20,000 ppm were detected in the seized ‘Face’ and ‘Goree’ creams.
The creams are manufactured in Pakistan. The Health Department has directed the Drug Control wing to prevent their sale in the market without purchase bills.