India's top drug regulator has issued a public alert warning consumers and medical retailers about the sale of unauthorised skin whitening creams imported from Pakistan, stating that several products tested positive for dangerously high concentrations of heavy metals. The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) confirmed that the seized batches exceeded permissible limits for metals such as mercury, lead, and arsenic, which are commonly found in illegal cosmetic formulations but pose serious health hazards when present in excess.
The regulatory body noted that these products are not registered or approved for sale in India under any drug licence and are being marketed through informal retail channels and online platforms across multiple cities. Authorities have directed pharmacists and cosmetic vendors to immediately halt the sale of the identified creams and dispose of existing stock in compliance with safety protocols.
Heavy metal contamination in skin-lightening products is a well-documented concern in India, where unfair-trade practices and cosmetic misuse have long been linked to kidney damage, skin discoloration, neurological disorders, and other chronic conditions. The Drugs and Cosmetics Act strictly prohibits the import and distribution of unauthorised cosmetics, and violations are punishable under law.
CDSCO has asked state drug control authorities to conduct inspections at wholesale markets, beauty stores, and e-commerce sellers to root out these products. Consumers who have already purchased the banned creams have been advised to discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider if they experience skin irritation, rash, or other adverse symptoms. The regulator also invited complaints through its designated monitoring portal to track the spread of counterfeit and adulterated cosmetics.
The alert underscores India's ongoing efforts to crack down on unregulated beauty products entering the market through cross-border trade routes, particularly from neighbouring countries where manufacturing standards may not align with Indian safety requirements.
