Banned Pakistani skin-whitening creams being sold in Ahmedabad despite CDSCO warning

Ahmedabad: Despite being identified as banned in India, Pakistani beauty creams ‘Goree Beauty Cream’ and ‘Chandni Whitening Cream’ are reportedly being sold openly in several markets across Ahmedabad, raising concerns over the sale of unregistered cosmetic products and potential health risks to consumers.

The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) recently issued a public notice stating that the two cosmetic products, both made in Pakistan, are unauthorised and have not been issued registration certificates for import and sale in India. According to the notice, testing and analysis by the CDSCO found that the products contained excessive levels of heavy metals beyond the specified limits, which may pose health risks, including toxic effects.

The products were reportedly available in areas including Relief Road, Teen Darwaza, Tankshal and Kubernagar. The creams are marketed as skin-lightening products and are believed to be entering the local market through unauthorised channels.

Under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, and the Cosmetics Rules, 2020, cosmetics manufactured or imported for sale in India are subject to regulatory requirements. Domestic manufacturers must obtain a licence from the State Licensing Authority, while imported cosmetics must be registered with the Central Licensing Authority.

The CDSCO has advised consumers not to purchase or use Goree Beauty Cream, Chandni Whitening Cream or similarly named products. It has also advised consumers to check cosmetic labels for details such as the manufacturing licence number, manufacturer’s details, batch number, manufacturing and expiry dates and, in the case of imported cosmetics, the registration number.

The regulator has further warned establishments and individuals not to sell, distribute or advertise the identified products and has directed enforcement agencies to ensure that such unauthorised cosmetics are not sold within their jurisdictions.

Dermatologist Dr Reema Joshi of Civil Hospital explained that mercury, a heavy metal found in some skin-lightening products, can inhibit tyrosinase, an enzyme involved in melanin production. This can temporarily reduce pigmentation and make the skin appear lighter. However, prolonged exposure can damage the skin and cause irritation, redness and thinning, while long-term exposure may have wider health effects.

The continued availability of the creams in Ahmedabad has raised questions about the monitoring of unauthorised cosmetic products and enforcement against their illegal sale. Consumers who come across such products have been advised to report violations to the appropriate drug-control authorities.

DeshGujarat