The Food and Drug Supervisory Agency of Indonesia (BPOM RI) has recently identified several Pinkflash and SALSA Cosmetics products as dangerous, causing concern among consumers. The findings emerged after BPOM RI conducted their latest market surveillance, which pointed to the presence of harmful chemicals in certain cosmetic items from these two popular brands.
The incident led to widespread queries regarding product safety, especially since Pinkflash and SALSA Cosmetics are known for their affordable prices and broad assortment. The two brands quickly responded, issuing clarifications to address consumer worries and explain the measures taken following the BPOM’s announcement.
Details of the Products Declared Dangerous
BPOM RI’s investigation revealed five products from both Pinkflash and SALSA Cosmetics that were found to contain prohibited substances. These chemicals, such as Red K3, Red K10, and Acid Orange 7, are associated with serious health risks, including cancer, liver damage, and harm to the nervous system.
Here is a breakdown of the problematic products and the substances detected:
-
Pinkflash:
- 3 Pan Eyeshadow PF-E23 BR02 – contain Acid Orange 7
- 3 Pan Eyeshadow PF-E23 BR04 – contain Red K10
- SALSA Cosmetics:
- Matte Lipsticks Scarlet 09 – contain Red K3
- Rhapsody Amber Pro Palette – contain Red K3 and Red K10
- Rhapsody Classic Pro Palette – contain Red K3 and Red K10
BPOM’s official statement emphasizes that the banned coloring agents found in these products have carcinogenic properties and pose significant danger if used in cosmetics.
Pinkflash’s Official Statement
Pinkflash issued a public apology to their consumers, retail partners, and the wider public. The company highlighted their full compliance with BPOM RI’s regulatory decisions and consumer safety standards. In their official Instagram release, Pinkflash stated that distribution and sales of the affected products were halted immediately after receiving the formal notification from BPOM. Removal applied to offline stores, official distributors, and marketplace channels.
The brand also declared a compensation policy for affected consumers. Customers who purchased any of the specific batch numbers outlined by BPOM can claim twice the product’s retail price by emailing the company directly.
SALSA Cosmetics’ Explanation and Response
SALSA Cosmetics provided transparency on the source of the issue by explaining that a manufacturing partner in China had violated agreed ingredient specifications. According to SALSA, pre-production samples provided by the supplier passed all internal and independent laboratory tests, confirming the absence of dangerous substances. However, during mass production, a batch was found to contain harmful coloring agents not listed in the previously approved formula.
Upon identifying the violation, SALSA immediately discontinued distribution, conducted a market recall of the affected products, and proceeded to destroy the problematic stock. The brand also signaled its intention to pursue legal action against the supplier responsible for the manufacturing breach.
Assurance for Future Products
As part of their corrective actions, both Pinkflash and SALSA Cosmetics informed customers that they are strengthening quality control measures. SALSA emphasized that all new product lines, including the Rhapsody series, have now passed stringent internal quality checks and certified laboratory tests. The company renewed its commitment to consumer trust and affirmed that all new releases are free of dangerous ingredients and compliant with BPOM regulations.
Customer Guidance and Industry Implications
Pinkflash and SALSA Cosmetics have encouraged customers to seek clarification and compensation directly if they have purchased any of the listed products. They also highlighted enhanced oversight and supplier verification processes to prevent similar incidents in the future. BPOM RI’s enforcement action underscores the importance of regulatory compliance and ingredients transparency in the cosmetic industry, urging consumers to be vigilant about product origins and certifications.
Consumers are advised to always check the BPOM registration and batch numbers when purchasing cosmetic products, especially from online marketplaces and less regulated sources. This ensures product safety and supports responsible brand conduct in the beauty sector.
