Content Creators & Online Sellers Called Out for Spreading Dangerous Lies About Mercury in Skin Lightening Products!

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In a recent call to action, environmental watchdog BAN Toxics has urged content creators and online sellers to cease promoting and selling skin-lightening products containing hazardous mercury. Despite existing bans, these products continue to proliferate on platforms like TikTok, Facebook Reels, Lazada, and Shopee, posing significant health risks to consumers.

A study by BAN Toxics revealed alarming findings: out of 50 skin-whitening products purchased online, 44 tested positive for mercury levels ranging from 7 parts per million (ppm) to a staggering 67,400 ppm, far exceeding the 1 ppm limit set by the ASEAN Cosmetics Directive. Notably, 33 of these products had been previously flagged by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) between 2013 and 2024 due to their mercury content. 

Mercury is recognized by the World Health Organization as one of the top ten chemicals of major public health concern. Even minimal exposure can lead to severe health issues, including damage to the nervous, digestive, and immune systems, as well as the lungs, kidneys, skin, and eyes. It also poses significant risks to fetal development and early childhood. 

Thony Dizon, Advocacy and Campaign Officer of BAN Toxics, expressed dismay over the continued promotion of these hazardous products:

"We are dismayed that some content creators and online sellers continue to use social media platforms to advertise and sell prohibited beauty products despite existing chemical regulations in the country. The sale and promotion of mercury-laden beauty products must stop."

The issue is further exacerbated by the spread of misinformation on social media. Despite being illegal due to their mercury content, these products are often marketed with misleading claims, endangering consumers. The recent removal of fact-checking labels from Facebook and Instagram has allowed such misinformation to spread unchecked, highlighting the need for stronger enforcement to protect public health.

BAN Toxics is calling on social media platforms, online sellers, and content creators to take responsibility for consumer safety by halting the spread of misinformation. The organization also urges regulatory agencies, including the FDA and the Department of Trade and Industry, to investigate and take immediate enforcement action against platforms and sellers violating health and safety regulations.

This call to action aligns with global efforts to eliminate mercury-containing skin lightening products. The Minamata Convention on Mercury, which the Philippines ratified on June 2, 2020, mandates the phase-out of such products by 2020. However, investigations have found that these products remain widely available online, underscoring the need for robust enforcement and public education to protect consumers. 

Consumers are advised to exercise caution and avoid purchasing skin-lightening products from unverified sources. It's crucial to be aware of the potential health risks associated with mercury-containing cosmetics and to support initiatives aimed at promoting safe and healthy beauty practices.

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