Pcsir report: ‘Cheap cosmetics cause cancer’

LAHORE:

Locally-made cheap cosmetic products contain large quantities of banned chemicals that damage the skin and increase the risk of cancer, according to a report compiled by the Pakistan Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (PCSIR).

The report stated that face-whitening creams contained many hazardous chemicals including steroids and mercury salts that left black spots on the skin and might lead to skin diseases including melanoma.

Some low-cost shampoos and hair dyes contain chemicals including lineralkoil benzene and sulphonic acid, which are used in carpet manufacturing and car washing products, and PPD chemicals that may cause skin cancer or permanent hair fall and allergy problems, the report said.

Toxic metals, minerals, arsenic oxides and pig fat are being used in imported bath soaps that may affect the nervous system, it added.

The government needs to develop a mechanism to check the use of chemicals in cosmetic substances in the interest of consumers, says the council.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 27^th, 2011.