ISLAMABAD — The Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) has initiated a nationwide investigation into companies involved in the production, marketing, and sale of skin whitening creams containing high levels of mercury.
The probe, launched by the CCP’s Office of Fair Trade and Market Intelligence Unit, aims to protect consumers from serious health risks and ensure fair competition within the cosmetics market.
The investigation revealed that several popular whitening products, both in stores and online, contain dangerously high mercury levels. Many of these products falsely advertise their safety and effectiveness while concealing mercury content from ingredient labels.
Mercury, a toxic chemical, can cause kidney damage, neurological disorders, and skin diseases. Its use in cosmetics is banned in most countries, yet many whitening creams in Pakistan continue to use mercury, often under misleading labels like “fairness,” “glow,” and “lightening.”
Under Section 10 of the Competition Act, 2010, false or deceptive marketing is prohibited, with penalties of up to Rs. 75 million or 10% of annual turnover for violators. The CCP has taken action against companies responsible for selling or promoting these harmful products.
Consumers are advised to stop using any whitening cream suspected of containing high levels of mercury and are encouraged to report deceptive advertising or unsafe products via the CCP Online Complaint Portal at www.cc.gov.pk
