PESHAWAR – Beauty market faces growing alarm after reports confirmed mercury in skin-whitening creams, exposing a serious public health risk. Investigators found that several popular creams contain toxic levels of mercury, a metal banned in cosmetics across most countries.
The Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) launched a nationwide crackdown on companies producing and distributing these creams. Officials said some brands, both local and imported, add mercury to their formulas and hide it from consumers.
Tests by the CCP’s Fair Trade and Market Intelligence Unit revealed mercury levels far beyond safe limits. Health experts have long warned that weak cosmetic regulations in Pakistan allow such products to spread unchecked. Misleading ads still push the false idea that fair skin means beauty and success.
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Mercury directly damages the brain, kidneys, and skin. It remains banned under the Minamata Convention on Mercury, which Pakistan signed along with over 140 nations. Yet poor law enforcement keeps harmful creams in stores and online markets.
The CCP warned that companies selling mercury-based creams could face fines of up to 70mn rupees (250,000 US dollars). The commission is working with provincial food and drug authorities to clear banned products and charge violators.
Public health specialists said mercury in skin-whitening creams in Pakistan also reflects social bias. “This isn’t just a medical problem,” said a Lahore dermatologist. “Colorism drives the demand, and weak rules let companies profit from it.”
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Fairness creams still sell widely online, often promoted by influencers who ignore the health dangers. Experts urge buyers to read product labels and avoid unregistered brands while the CCP continues its crackdown.
The growing debate over mercury in skin-whitening creams in Pakistan highlights a deeper issue involving beauty ideals, consumer safety, and corporate accountability.
