BPOM Warns Public About 23 Hazardous Skincare and Cosmetic Products Containing Mercury

Indonesian consumers are now facing greater concerns regarding cosmetic safety. Recent findings from the National Food and Drug Agency (BPOM) identified 23 skincare and cosmetic products containing hazardous ingredients, with confirmed risks to users’ health. This regulatory update answers the public’s worry about the growing presence of unauthorized and unsafe beauty products in circulation.

BPOM’s Findings and Risky Chemicals

A detailed investigation by BPOM identified ingredients such as mercury, hydroquinone, retinoic acid, and banned synthetic colorants in the flagged products. Mercury remains the most common toxic ingredient found, known to cause skin discoloration, rashes, headaches, kidney damage, and even long-term neurological effects. BPOM’s laboratory results also displayed significant levels of hydroquinone, which has links to hyperpigmentation, ochronosis, and changes in the color of the eyes and nails.

Products containing retinoic acid carry unique dangers for certain consumers, especially pregnant women. As BPOM noted, retinoic acid exposure during pregnancy has teratogenic effects, potentially leading to defects in fetal development. The agency also warned against synthetic colorants, including Red K3, Red K10, and Acid Orange 7, for their carcinogenic potential and possible liver and nerve toxicity.

List of 23 Banned Skincare and Cosmetic Products

Consumers are encouraged to check the following list of products flagged and withdrawn by BPOM:

1. AL-LATIF Henna Nail Polish Radiant Red – Red K10
2. AL-LATIF Henna Nail Polish Ravishing Red – Red K10
3. DINDA SKINCARE Lotion Booster Brightening – Mercury
4. DUBAI RIA Body Lotion – Mercury
5. ELBYCI Night Cream Platinum – Hydroquinone
6. F&A SKIN GLOW Day Cream Exclusive – Mercury
7. HK Hadijah Karima Glow All In One Whitening Cream – Mercury
8. MEGLOW SKINCARE Cream Flek – Mercury
9. PINKFLASH Eyeshadow PF-E23 BR02 – Acid Orange 7
10. PINKFLASH Eyeshadow PF-E23 BR04 – Red K10
11. R&D GLOW Premium Day Cream – Mercury
12. R&D GLOW Premium Face Toner – Retinoic Acid & Hydroquinone
13. R&D GLOW Premium Night Cream – Mercury
14. SALSA Matte Lipstick Scarlet 09 – Red K3
15. SALSA Rhapsody Amber Pro Palette – Red K3 & K10
16. SALSA Rhapsody Classic Pro Palette – Red K3 & K10
17. SN Glowing Brightening Night Cream – Hydroquinone
18. SW GLOW’S Day Cream – Mercury
19. SW GLOW’S Night Cream – Mercury
20. TINA BEAUTY Night Lotion Premium – Hydroquinone
21. WBS COSMETICS Glasskin Face Serum – Mercury
22. WBS COSMETICS Night Cream Series Glow – Mercury
23. WSC Premium Booster Glowing Cream – Mercury

BPOM immediately revoked these items’ distribution licenses and urges the public not to buy or use them.

Identifying and Understanding Cosmetic Hazards

Many users do not recognize that hazardous substances in beauty products can cause both short and long-term health issues. BPOM data show that mercury was the most frequently detected substance, but there was also a steady occurrence of hydroquinone and retinoic acid. Lipsticks and eyeshadows showed traces of prohibited colorants. If used over time, these chemicals can cause cancer, severe allergies, and even disrupt liver and nervous system function.

How to Choose Safe Beauty Products for Your Family

Awareness is the key to safer beauty routines. BPOM and health experts provide the following essential steps for consumers:

1. Check BPOM Registration
   Verify the product’s BPOM authorization via the official site (cekbpom.pom.go.id) before purchase.
2. Consider Special Conditions
   Pregnant or breastfeeding women should only use products proven to be safe for their condition. Consulting with a healthcare professional is recommended.
3. Inspect Ingredients List
   People with allergies or sensitive skin must always review ingredient labels to avoid medical complications.
4. Conduct Patch Tests
   When trying new products, test first on a small patch of skin. If irritation or allergic reactions develop, do not use the product on facial or larger skin areas.

BPOM’s Cek KLIK Approach

To educate the public, BPOM promotes the CEK KLIK steps for purchasing cosmetics:

• Check the Packaging
  Ensure the packaging is intact, sealed, and undamaged.
• Check the Label
  Read all information on the label, including ingredients, producer, expiration date, batch code, and BPOM registration.
• Check the Distribution Permit
  Make sure the product has a valid BPOM distribution permit number.
• Check the Expiry Date
  Never use products past their expiry date to prevent adverse effects.

Summary Table of Harmful Ingredients and Health Effects

Continuous monitoring and strict regulation by BPOM aims to protect public well-being. Consumers are urged to always review product safety and authenticity before use, ensuring health is always a priority in beauty choices.