20 Nov 2008
The Department of Health today (November 20) called on people not to use two cosmetic products called "Natural 99 yellow cream – day cream" and "Natural 99 white cream - night cream" following a case of suspected mercury poisoning reported by the Hospital Authority.
The case involved a 29-year-old woman who was admitted to Princess Margaret Hospital on October 18 for shortness of breath, leg and facial swelling. She was discharged on November 4 in stable condition.
Examination by the hospital laboratories showed that the level of mercury in the day cream and night cream was 9320 and 6740 times respectively that of the acceptable level. The department’s investigations revealed that she had used the product obtained from her friends for about six months before the onset of symptoms.
The Department of Health has referred the case to the Customs and Excise Department for follow-up action.
A department spokesman urged people who had been using the cosmetic creams concerned to stop using it immediately and seek advice from their doctors as soon as possible.
He said mercury poisoning was caused by overdose of mercury in the body, causing damage mainly to the nervous systems and kidneys. Symptoms may include tremor, irritability, insomnia, memory deterioration, difficulty with concentrating, impaired hearing and vision or change in taste. In most severe cases, renal failure may occur.