The Ministry of Health Malaysia has issued a warning regarding certain cosmetic products found to contain scheduled poisons. The National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (NPRA) identified three products—GB Night Cream Treatment, GB Herbal Cream Treatment, and Aniqa Night Cream—that contain harmful substances including hydroquinone, tretinoin, mercury, and betamethasone 17-valerate.
The NPRA has cancelled the notifications for these products, and they are no longer authorised for sale in Malaysia. Hydroquinone and tretinoin, both used in skin treatments, can cause adverse effects such as skin redness, hypersensitivity, and increased risk of skin cancer. Mercury, banned in cosmetics due to its severe health risks, can lead to kidney damage and developmental issues in children, while betamethasone 17-valerate can result in skin thinning and irritation.
Sellers and distributors are required to halt the sale and distribution of these products immediately. Violations of the Control of Drugs and Cosmetics Regulations 1984 may result in fines or imprisonment. The public is advised to cease use of these products and seek medical advice if any adverse effects occur. For further information and to verify the status of cosmetic products, the NPRA’s official website and the ‘NPRA Product Status’ app are available for public use.
