India warns against Pakistani fairness creams containing dangerous heavy metals

India's Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) has issued a nationwide alert warning the public against two fairness cream products imported from Pakistan, citing dangerously high concentrations of heavy metals detected during routine testing.

The regulatory body, which oversees pharmaceutical and cosmetic products across India, identified the contamination during quality checks and has advised consumers to avoid purchasing or applying these skin-whitening formulations. Health officials expressed concern that prolonged exposure to heavy metals through topical applications could pose significant health risks.

The alert represents part of ongoing efforts by Indian health authorities to monitor imported cosmetic and beauty products for quality and safety compliance. Fairness creams remain popular across South Asia despite international health warnings about their potential dangers, with many products containing harmful substances including mercury, lead, and other toxic elements.

Consumers who have already purchased the flagged products have been advised to discontinue use immediately and consult healthcare professionals if they experience any adverse reactions. The CDSCO has instructed retailers and distributors to remove the items from shelves and has initiated further investigation into the supply chain of these Pakistani-manufactured creams.