Skin Products Made Abroad and Sold in the US Could Be Tainted With Mercury

The FDA is warning consumers about beauty and antiseptic soaps, lotions and skin creams that could be contaminated with mercury. According to the Food and Drug Administration the contaminated beauty products have been found in seven states.

The products are made abroad and sold in the United States as skin lighteners and anti-aging creams. According to Gary Coody, national health fraud coordinator in the FDA's Office of Regulatory Affairs, some of the products are being sold online as well as in Latino, African, Asian or Middle Eastern neighborhoods. They are touted as products that can remove age spots, freckles, wrinkles and other blemishes. Some may be used by teenagers for acne.

"If you have a product that matches these descriptions, stop using it immediately," Coody said.

[ via KMGH Denver ]