Thailand warns of make-up dangers

Thailand warns of make-up dangers

BANGKOK (AFP): Thai authorities have warned that certain brands of cheap cosmetics sold in markets and grocery stores could contain mercury and cause kidney failure or even death, the Bangkok Post reported yesterday.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has banned 21 dangerous products found on sale in the country, and has set up a hot line offering rewards for consumers who inform authorities if they find them in the shops.

The various creams and lotions, which have been found with fake FDA logos in markets in Thailand, are contaminated with mercury, which if absorbed into the bloodstream can cause kidney failure.

Others contain hydro-quinone, a substance used in photographic developers. It serves as a skin whitener but could lead to permanent blemishes, the report said.