Health Ministry revokes notification for JJF Cream Herba and JF Cream Treatment containing scheduled poisons including mercury and hydroquinone.
PUTRAJAYA: The Health Ministry has revoked the notification of two cosmetic products found to contain scheduled poisons, making them illegal for sale in Malaysia.
The ministry identified the prohibited products as JJF Cream Herba and JF Cream Treatment.
JJF Cream Herba contains mercury and betamethasone 17-valerate, while JF Cream Treatment contains hydroquinone and tretinoin.
The Director of Pharmacy Services has cancelled both products’ notifications, banning their sale nationwide.
Mercury is prohibited in cosmetics due to potential absorption into the body, which may cause kidney damage and nervous system disorders.
The toxic metal can also interfere with brain development in young children and unborn babies.
Mercury exposure may lead to skin rashes, irritation and other dermatological changes.
Cosmetics containing betamethasone 17-valerate, hydroquinone and tretinoin are classified as medicines requiring Drug Control Authority registration.
These substances should only be used under healthcare professional supervision.
Betamethasone 17-valerate can cause skin thinning, irritation, acne and pigmentation changes.
The steroid carries absorption risks into the bloodstream, potentially causing systemic harm.
Hydroquinone may cause skin redness, discomfort, discolouration and hypersensitivity.
It can disrupt pigmentation processes, reducing natural UV protection and increasing skin cancer risk.
Tretinoin can make skin red, painful, peeling and hypersensitive to sunlight.
Sellers and distributors must immediately cease sales and distribution of these products.
Violations contravene the Control of Drugs and Cosmetics Regulations 1984.
Individual offenders face fines up to RM25,000 or three years imprisonment for first offences.
Subsequent individual offences carry maximum RM50,000 fines or five years imprisonment.
Companies face RM50,000 fines for initial violations and RM100,000 for repeat offences.
Consumers should immediately stop using the products and consult healthcare professionals if experiencing adverse effects. – Bernama
