Beware of Mercury Dangers in Skincare, It Can Trigger Brain Damage

KOMPAS.com - Indonesia’s Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM) has once again taken firm action against cosmetic violations by withdrawing 11 products containing dangerous ingredients at the beginning of 2026. These products were recalled because they failed to meet safety standards through a series of laboratory tests, one of which was due to containing mercury. This substance is often added to whitening creams as it can inhibit melanin formation, thereby changing skin colour to white instantly. Although it offers tempting instant results, mercury-containing cosmetics harbour deadly dangers. Know the risks and how to address them if mercury exposure has already occurred. Mercury exposure not only damages the skin’s surface but can also enter and impair the function of various vital organs. This threat even endangers the safety of the foetus. “Starting from skin colour changes that can ultimately cause black spots on the skin, allergies, skin irritation, and high-dose use can cause kidney abnormalities, permanent brain damage, and foetal developmental disorders,” said Satya Darmayani, S.Si., M.Eng, from Poltekkes Kemenkes Kedari, quoting Antara, on Monday (11/5/2026). Cosmetics mixed with mercury are highly corrosive. This property will gradually thin the epidermis layer of the skin and cause it to lose its protective function. Routine use instead triggers the appearance of painful and burning skin rashes. Instead of getting a bright, healthy, glowing face, consumers will experience ochronosis, a condition of skin thickening accompanied by permanent colour changes to bluish or dark black due to heavy metal exposure. This compound can disrupt the digestive tract, damage the central nervous system, and cause damage to the urological system. Brain function, heart, kidneys, lungs, and the immune system will be disrupted. This substance is also carcinogenic, posing a strong risk of triggering cancer cells. Mercury can easily penetrate pores, enter the bloodstream, and flow until it settles in the mother’s placenta. “Several studies show that pregnant and breastfeeding mothers using mercury-containing cosmetic products risk their babies being poisoned by mercury,” said Satya.