association of local governments in UK, called the LGA, has warned consumers about use of some skin-lightening creams. The LGA discovered that some of whitening cosmetics they tested contained banned ingredients and were thus illegal. However, they were available for purchase in UK stores. LGA spokesperson said these ingredients could pose serious threat to consumers' health. He said there has been increase in the number of users experiencing health problems after using creams. These include seizures, rashes and scarring. spokesperson said the creams could increase risk of skin cancer, and liver and kidney damage.
global skin-lightening industry is booming. In 2017, it was valued at estimated $4.8 billion and is forecast to nearly double to around $8.9 billion in next decade. Many people use it to reduce darkness of the color of their skin. The LGA warned that "rogue retailers" were selling illegal skin-lightening lotions on which label incorrectly listed ingredients and omitted illegal substances. The LGA said some illegal ingredients acted like paint stripper and could burn off top layer of skin. It said: "Skin creams containing banned ingredients are very dangerous and could seriously damage your health, scar you for life and even kill you, so they should be avoided at all costs."
