KUALA LUMPUR: The Health Ministry today announced a ban on a product from popular cosmetics line Qu Puteh.
The product is known as Qu Puteh Kosmetik Whitening Pro 9 cream.
Health director-general Datuk Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah said the Qu Puteh Whitening Pro 9 cream contains a “high level” of mercury, beyond what is permissible in cosmetic products.
All shops stocking the product have been told to cease selling it and to withdraw it from the market within 72 hours.
“As such, the Qu Puteh Whitening Pro 9 cosmetic product can no longer be sold in Malaysia,” he said in a statement.
He said the ministry’s National Pharmaceutical Control Bureau had received reports of adverse effects from users.
“Users had complained of ringing in the ears (tinnitus) and hair loss after using the Qu Puteh Whitening Pro 9 and Qu Puteh Whitening UV Block products for about three months.
“The users recovered fully after they stopped using the products,” he said.
Dr Noor Hisham said cosmetic products which use mercury are usually meant for skin whitening and anti-aging purposes.
“Cosmetic products should not contain mercury as they can affect one’s health by damaging the kidneys and nerve system.
“It can also hamper the development of mental capacities of children or even babies in the womb,” he said.
Dr Noor Hisham said the adverse effects of mercury exposure can also be experienced by people around the user, when the mercury is applied to the skin or inhaled.
Babies and small children, he said, can be exposed to mercury by touching the product directly or the skin of the person using the product.
He said the ministry had canceled the product notification of the Qu Puteh Whitening Pro 9 cream.
All companies, he said, have been asked to cease all sale and stock activities immediately and to withdraw it from the market within 72 hours.
Dr Noor Hisham said those who fail to abide by the ruling can face a punishment of a fine not exceeding RM25,000 or three years’ jail, or both.
He advised consumers to report to the bureau if they experience any adverse reactions to the products by calling 03-78018496/78835532 or via email at kosmetik@bpfk.gov.my
Consumers are also advised to seek immediate medical treatment.