Press Release

Public warned about unsafe cosmetic cream

29 May 2012

The Department of Health (DH) today (May 29) appealed to members of the public not to buy or use a cosmetic cream called "Santen", as it may contain excessive mercury that is dangerous to health.

The appeal followed the DH's receipt of notification of a case of allergic contact dermatitis from the Hospital Authority (HA) involving a 33-year-old female patient. The DH commenced the investigation immediately.

"The patient sought medical treatment from the Accident and Emergency Department of Queen Mary Hospital on May 1 because of itchy skin rash over face and neck. She described a history of use of the above product for the first time on April 29. Allergic contact dermatitis was clinically suspected. She was discharged from hospital after treatment on May 2," a DH spokesman said.

"The HA's laboratory test on the product sample submitted by the patient showed that the level of mercury was 16,227 times that of the acceptable level. Investigation revealed that the patient obtained the product from a friend. DH's investigation continues," he said.

"Chronic exposure to mercury can cause damage to the nervous system and kidneys. Symptoms may include tremors, irritability, insomnia, deterioration of memory, difficulty in concentration, impaired hearing and vision, and change in taste. In the most severe cases, renal failure may occur," the spokesman explained.

"As the product may cause serious side effects, people who have used the above product should stop using it immediately and consult health-care professionals as soon as possible if they feel unwell or are in doubt.

"Members of the public are urged not to buy or use cosmetic products of unknown composition or from doubtful sources as the consequences can be serious. They should consult healthcare professionals whenever they feel unwell or are in doubt after using suspicious products," he added.

The Department of Health today (May 29) appealed to members of the public not to buy or use a cosmetic cream called Santen, as it may contain excessive mercury, which is dangerous to health.