(Bandar Seri Begawan, 24th) The Ministry of Health has issued a statement reminding the public that a cosmetic product has been found to contain undeclared poisons listed under the Poison Act, according to laboratory tests by the Department of Pharmacy, Scientific Services Department, Ministry of Health.
The affected cosmetic product is Arche’ Pearl Cream, manufactured in Thailand, which contains mercury. The adulterant found in this product may pose potential hazards to users. Mercury is a potent ingredient and is prohibited for use in cosmetics under the Medicines (Cosmetics) Regulation, 2007.
According to the statement, mercury is harmful to human health and therefore its use in topical cosmetics is banned. Mercury can be easily absorbed through the skin and tends to accumulate in the body. Exposure to mercury may cause rashes, memory loss, and muscle weakness, and high-level exposure may lead to damage to the brain and kidneys. Mercury is also extremely toxic to fetuses.
The Ministry clarified that it has not issued any approval for the import or sale of this product, nor has it granted a cosmetic notification confirmation letter for the sale of the affected product.
In light of this finding, the product is not allowed to be imported or sold in Brunei.
The authorities urge the public who have purchased or used this product to immediately discontinue its use. If you feel unwell or experience any adverse reactions after using this product, please consult a doctor.
Under the Medicines (Cosmetics) Regulation, 2007, retailing this product (including via online platforms like Facebook) is an offense. Penalties for violating this regulation are:
A fine not exceeding BND 5,000, imprisonment for up to two years, or both.
The Ministry of Health also seeks public cooperation – if this product is still on the market, please report it to the Compliance and Licensing Division.
For more information and communication, the public may call 2393301 extension 208 to contact the Compliance and Licensing Division; send an email to
pharmacy.enforcement@moh.gov.bn; or visit the Compliance and Licensing Division on the 1st floor of the Pharmaceutical Services Building at Kg. Madaras, Mukim Gadong A. Alternatively, please call Darussalam Line 123.
The affected cosmetic product is Arche’ Pearl Cream, manufactured in Thailand, which contains mercury. The adulterant found in this product may pose potential hazards to users. Mercury is a potent ingredient and is prohibited for use in cosmetics under the Medicines (Cosmetics) Regulation, 2007.
According to the statement, mercury is harmful to human health and therefore its use in topical cosmetics is banned. Mercury can be easily absorbed through the skin and tends to accumulate in the body. Exposure to mercury may cause rashes, memory loss, and muscle weakness, and high-level exposure may lead to damage to the brain and kidneys. Mercury is also extremely toxic to fetuses.
The Ministry clarified that it has not issued any approval for the import or sale of this product, nor has it granted a cosmetic notification confirmation letter for the sale of the affected product.
In light of this finding, the product is not allowed to be imported or sold in Brunei.
The authorities urge the public who have purchased or used this product to immediately discontinue its use. If you feel unwell or experience any adverse reactions after using this product, please consult a doctor.
Under the Medicines (Cosmetics) Regulation, 2007, retailing this product (including via online platforms like Facebook) is an offense. Penalties for violating this regulation are:
A fine not exceeding BND 5,000, imprisonment for up to two years, or both.
The Ministry of Health also seeks public cooperation – if this product is still on the market, please report it to the Compliance and Licensing Division.
For more information and communication, the public may call 2393301 extension 208 to contact the Compliance and Licensing Division; send an email to
pharmacy.enforcement@moh.gov.bn; or visit the Compliance and Licensing Division on the 1st floor of the Pharmaceutical Services Building at Kg. Madaras, Mukim Gadong A. Alternatively, please call Darussalam Line 123.