Skin Whitening Creams: Cosmetovigilance

Cosmeceutical products such as skin-lightening agents have been used globally to enhance skin tone and obtain a magnificent outward appearance. The pigment known as melanin, produced by melanocytes, imparts skin color. The Cosmetic Europe survey testifies that most people believe that cosmetics enhance one's quality of life. The most in-demand in the cosmetics industry are skin-whitening agents. Heavy metals and dangerous substances like lead and mercury are present in these skin-brightening cosmetics, which have a long-term effect on important organs and begin asymptomatic. Despite these negative consequences, there is a sizable market for these products due to the desire for fairer skin tones. Cosmetovigilance studies determine the of heavy metals in these preparations, which need to be monitored regularly. This article discusses the toxicity of heavy metals such as nickel, mercury, arsenic, lead, cobalt, and others found in skin-lightening formulas. The acceptable limit for these toxic agents is recognized by several healthcare organizations worldwide.