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.