The Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) is set to impose a ban on imported cosmetic goods containing mercury and hydroquinone. Hydroquinone and mercury are both said to damage internal organs such as the kidneys and liver and they can also cause anxiety and depression. Hydroquinone in particular can cause cancer. It is used as a skin bleaching agent as it removed pigment from the skin. The ban is effective from 31 March and prohibits traders and importers from marketing any products containing these substances. Both ingredients are said to be dangerous and pose significant health risks. Failure to comply with the standards would mean vendors risk seizure of their products. Although there are several prohibited substances that are already circulating in the market, the UNBS is concentrating on the two in question.
by B.Briasco