THE sale of two cosmetic products of the brand name Karisma, namely, its Turmeric Booster Cream and Flashhskinzz Treatment Cream, were banned in Malaysia as they were found to contain mercury, which is a scheduled poison, said Health Director-General Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah. 

He said the notification of the two products has been revoked by the senior director of pharmacy services. 

“Mercury is prohibited in cosmetic products because it can be harmful to health. It can be absorbed into the body and cause damage to the kidneys and nervous system,” he said, adding that it can also interfere with the brain development of young or unborn children and can cause rashes, irritations and other changes in the skin.

Dr Noor Hisham said the sale and distribution of those cosmetic products must be stopped immediately as they violate the Control of Drugs and Cosmetics Regulations 1984.

Anyone who commits the offence the first time faces a fine of not more than RM25,000, jail time of not more than three years, or both. Those who commit subsequent offences face a fine of not more than RM50,000, jail time of not more than five years, or both. 

A company selling the items can be fined up to RM50,000 for the first offence and up to RM100,000 for subsequent offences. 

“Members of the public who are currently using these cosmetic products are advised to immediately stop using them and seek advice from health professionals if they experience any discomfort or adverse effects,” he said.

The public is encouraged to check the notification status of cosmetic products by visiting the National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency’s website or the NPRA Product Status app (available on Google Play Store). – Bernama, February 13, 2023.