A new global study has revealed alarming levels of mercury in popular skin-lightening creams, exposing consumers to severe health risks despite existing international and national bans.
The report, published by the Zero Mercury Working Group (ZMWG), found that nearly half of the creams tested contained mercury concentrations thousands of times higher than the legal limit of 1 part per million (ppm) set by the Minamata Convention on Mercury.
Titled “Zero Out Toxic Production: End the Unscrupulous Manufacturing of Mercury-Added Skin Whiteners”, the study analysed 37 suspected mercury-added creams purchased from Pakistan, the Philippines, Kenya, and the United States.
Only two products met legal safety limits. The remaining 35 contained dangerously high mercury levels — ranging from 1,000 to 24,000 ppm — with one cream sold in the US recording a staggering 24,000 ppm.
According to ZMWG, Pakistan alone accounts for about 20 per cent of global production, with an estimated 66 million mercury-based creams made annually — containing over 110 metric tons of mercury compounds.
“Mercury is a potent neurotoxin. Even small doses can cause kidney damage, skin disorders, nervous system impairment, and developmental problems in unborn children,” the report warned.
Why the creams are still popular
The study attributes the widespread use of these toxic creams to colourism, weak enforcement, and misleading marketing.
Many products, branded as “lightening” or “brightening,” promise quick results but cause long-term harm — including dark patches, scarring, and irreversible skin damage.
Despite bans, these creams remain easily accessible in local markets, online platforms, and social media, with influencers unknowingly promoting them.
Kenya’s ongoing struggle
Kenya has faced similar challenges. In 2022, the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) banned 131 skin-lightening products found to contain mercury and other hazardous ingredients such as hydroquinone and steroids.
KEBS has repeatedly warned that prolonged use of such creams may lead to kidney and nervous system damage, skin disorders, and even cancer.
However, enforcement remains weak, with toxic products still sold through e-commerce sites and cross-border imports.
The ZMWG report calls for governments to stop production at the source, strengthen monitoring, and shut down online sales of non-compliant cosmetics.
“Without coordinated international action, millions of consumers — particularly women — will continue to be exposed to preventable harm,” it said.