Health Officials are warning consumers not to use skin creams, beauty and antiseptic soaps or lotions that might contain mercury.
The products are marketed as skin lighteners and anti-aging treatments that remove age spots, freckles, blemishes and wrinkles, Teenagers may also use these products as acne treatments. Products with this toxic metal have been found in many states in the USA.
Speaking today about the dangers of mercury Liam Moloney Product Liability Solicitor in Naas Co. Kildare said ‘’ exposure to mercury can have serious health consequences. It can damage kidneys and the nervous system and interfere with the development of the brain in unborn children.’’
The signs and symptoms of mercury poisoning are irritability, shyness, changes in vision or hearing, memory problems and depression. Mr Moloney added ‘’ you don’t have to use the product yourself to be affected. People can get mercury in their bodies from breathing in mercury vapours or if a member of a household uses skin cream containing mercury’’.
Mr. Moloney warned consumers to check the label of any skin lightening, anti-aging or other skin products before using them. “If you see the words ‘Mercurous Chloride’, ‘Calomen’, ‘Mercuric’,’ Mercurior’ or ‘Mercury’ immediately stop using the product. If there is no label or ingredients listed do not use the product”.
He added “if you suspect you have been using a product with mercury along with ceasing to use the product thoroughly wash your hands and any other parts of your body that have come in contact with the product and then contact your Doctor or Medical Clinic for advice”.
