Table of Contents
Is mercury harmful for skin?
The health risks The main adverse effect of the inorganic mercury contained in skin lightening creams is kidney damage. It may also cause skin rashes, skin discolouration and scarring, as well as a reduction in the skin’s resistance to bacterial and fungal infections.
Why is mercury in skin lightening products?
Skin-bleaching cosmetics with inorganic mercury have been used to suppress melanin production. Over the counter bleaching products recommended for fading discolorations due to melasma (hyperpigmentation), burns, and acne scars have been reportedly used in the whole face, with the purpose of fading skin tone.
Is mercury used in creams?
Mercury is used in cosmetics as a skin lightening agent and preservative. Cosmetics with mercury are often marketed as skin lightening creams and anti-aging treatments that remove age spots, freckles, blemishes and wrinkles. Adolescents sometimes use these products as acne treatments.
Can we use mercury on face?
This silvery-white liquid is a highly toxic heavy metal, comes in the form of liquid or gas. It is dangerous and hazardous to be used on the skin, so using skincare, cosmetics or personal care products that contain mercury is definitely not a good option!
What mercury do to your skin?
Some mercury compounds can be absorbed through the skin on topical application and accumulate in the body. Depending on the form of mercury, exposure to sufficiently high concentrations can result in allergic reactions, skin irritation or neurotoxicity.
Is ammoniated mercury safe?
Do not use this medicine on deep or open wounds or serious burns. To do so may cause mercury poisoning. Keep this medicine away from the eyes. Apply enough ointment to cover the affected area, and rub in gently.
What is ammoniated mercury used for?
Ammoniated mercury is used to treat impetigo, psoriasis, minor skin infections, and other skin disorders.
Does mercury whiten skin?
Mercury salts inhibit the formation of melanin, resulting in a lighter skin tone (6, 7). The Minamata Convention on Mercury establishes a limit of 1 mg/kg (1 ppm) for skin lightening products (8), yet many cosmetic products contain mercury levels higher than that amount to increase whitening effect (9, 10).
What are the side effects of mercury?
Mercury may affect the nervous system, leading to neurological symptoms such as:
- nervousness or anxiety.
- irritability or mood changes.
- numbness.
- memory problems.
- depression.
- physical tremors.
Can mercury lighten skin?
What are the long term effects of mercury?
Metallic mercury mainly causes health effects when inhaled as a vapor where it can be absorbed through the lungs. Symptoms of prolonged and/or acute exposures include: Tremors; Emotional changes (such as mood swings, irritability, nervousness, excessive shyness);