(Bandar Seri Begawan, 9th) The Ministry of Health issued a statement indicating that two cosmetic products were found to contain undeclared banned substances listed in the Poisons Act after testing.
The two banned cosmetic products are: Skin Magical Orange Cucumber Rejuvenating Kit Premium – Premium Rejuvenating Facial Toner and 2) Skin Magical Orange Cucumber Rejuvenating Kit Premium – Premium Rejuvenating Cream; both produced in the Philippines; containing hydroquinone and retinoic acid.
The banned substances in these cosmetics may pose potential risks to users. Hydroquinone and retinoic acid are used in Western prescription medications for treating skin issues, but according to the Medicines (Cosmetics) Regulations, they are prohibited in skincare cosmetics. Unsupervised use of hydroquinone may lead to skin allergies, skin discoloration (gradually darkening), and increased risk of skin cancer. Improper use of retinoic acid may cause skin redness, peeling, and scarring.
The Ministry of Health has not approved the import or sale of these two cosmetic products. Therefore, these products are prohibited from being imported and sold in Brunei.
The authorities urge citizens who have purchased or used these cosmetics to immediately stop using them. If you feel unwell or experience any adverse reactions due to using these products, please consult a medical professional as soon as possible.
According to the Medicines (Cosmetics) Regulations, selling these cosmetic products (including online sales through platforms like Facebook) is illegal and, upon conviction, can result in a fine of up to BND 5,000, imprisonment of up to two years, or both.
The two banned cosmetic products are: Skin Magical Orange Cucumber Rejuvenating Kit Premium – Premium Rejuvenating Facial Toner and 2) Skin Magical Orange Cucumber Rejuvenating Kit Premium – Premium Rejuvenating Cream; both produced in the Philippines; containing hydroquinone and retinoic acid.
The banned substances in these cosmetics may pose potential risks to users. Hydroquinone and retinoic acid are used in Western prescription medications for treating skin issues, but according to the Medicines (Cosmetics) Regulations, they are prohibited in skincare cosmetics. Unsupervised use of hydroquinone may lead to skin allergies, skin discoloration (gradually darkening), and increased risk of skin cancer. Improper use of retinoic acid may cause skin redness, peeling, and scarring.
The Ministry of Health has not approved the import or sale of these two cosmetic products. Therefore, these products are prohibited from being imported and sold in Brunei.
The authorities urge citizens who have purchased or used these cosmetics to immediately stop using them. If you feel unwell or experience any adverse reactions due to using these products, please consult a medical professional as soon as possible.
According to the Medicines (Cosmetics) Regulations, selling these cosmetic products (including online sales through platforms like Facebook) is illegal and, upon conviction, can result in a fine of up to BND 5,000, imprisonment of up to two years, or both.