THE Ministry of Health (MoH) has alerted members of the public to one cosmetic product that has been tested by the laboratory of Pharmacy Laboratory Services, Laboratory Services, MoH and found to be adulterated with undeclared substance.
The affected cosmetic product is Auramen Super Advanced with Vitis Vinifera + Walnut + Citrus + Aloe Vera Skincare for Men – Auramen Night Cream.
It is found to be adulterated with mercury.
The adulterant found in this product can cause adverse effects that are potentially hazardous to the people using them.
Mercury is a potent ingredient that is prohibited in cosmetic products as stipulated in the Medicines (Cosmetic Products) Regulations 2007.
Mercury is prohibited in cosmetic products due to its hazardous effects on human health.
It is readily absorbed through the skin on topical application and tends to accumulate in the body.
Exposure to mercury can cause skin rashes, memory loss and muscle weakness, while high exposures may result in damage to the brain and kidneys.
It is also extremely toxic to unborn children.
Auramen Super Advanced with Vitis Vinifera + Walnut + Citrus + Aloe Vera Skincare for Men – Auramen Night Cream
The ministry has not issued any approval for the importation and/or Cosmetic Notification Acknowledgement Letter for the sale of the rest of the affected product.
Following these findings, the product is not allowed to be imported and sold in Brunei Darussalam.
Members of the public who have purchased or used this product are advised to stop using them immediately.
They should also consult a medical practitioner if they feel unwell or experience any undesirable reactions as a result of using them.
Members of the public involved in the retail of the product (including online retail, such as through Facebook, etc) are hereby reminded that it is an offence under the Medicines (Cosmetic Products) Regulations, 2007 to import and market cosmetic products in the local market without a Cosmetic Product Notification Acknowledgement Letter issued by the authority.
The penalty for contravening these regulations, upon conviction, is a fine not exceeding $5,000, imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years, or both.
The MoH also called upon members of the public for their cooperation to report to the Health Regulations Services if the product is still found in the Brunei market.
For further information and communication, contact the Health Regulations Services at 2384182, send an e-mail to health.regulations@moh.gov.bn or go directly to the Health Regulations Services, 1st Floor, MoH at the Commonwealth Drive.
Members of the public may also contact Darussalam line 123 for any other enquiries.
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