A warning has been issued by the Local Government Association (LGA) that counterfeit cosmetics are now being sold by some rogue dealers that contain mercury, which can be detrimental to health and affect the nervous, digestive and immune systems, as well as the eyes, skin, kidneys and lungs.
Big-name brands like MAC, Benefit and Chanel are being ripped off by these underhand traders, with chair of the LGA’s Safer and Stronger Communities Board Simon Blackburn saying that these fake products cost both businesses and the taxpayer thousands each and every year, and if someone thinks they’ve purchased on they should stop using it immediately.
“Councils have been targeting rogue retailers selling these fake products, and the fines they have received should deter others from selling these dangerous products.
“People should always do their research and take a pragmatic approach when they are buying make-up and cosmetics. Check the reviews of online sellers, and bear in mind that if something is really cheap, it’s likely to be fake and could potentially be harmful,” he went on to say.
Recent investigations include cosmetics seized by Devon, Somerset and Torbay Trading Standards Service, and the prosecution of the owner of a Cheshire-based tanning salon who sold over £100,000 worth of fake designer goods, including perfume and makeup.
According to the World Health Organization, mercury is commonly found in skin-lightening soaps and creams, as well as other cosmetics like mascara and eye makeup cleansers.
Using inorganic mercury in such products can lead to kidney damage, as well as skin rashes, scarring and discolouration, as well as reducing its resistance to bacterial and fungal infections. Other adverse effects include depression, anxiety and/or psychosis and peripheral neuropathy.
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