,"On August 15, 2025, the Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH), through the National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Division (NPRA), issued a public alert urging consumers to avoid purchasing and using two cosmetic products found to contain scheduled poisons.
The affected products are:
1. JC Beauty Culture Radiance Renewal Serum – detected to contain Hydroquinone and Tretinoin.
2. The Perfect Derma Cream – detected to contain Miconazole.
Following this, the product notifications have been cancelled by the Director of Pharmaceutical Services, and the products are no longer allowed to be sold in Malaysia.
Cosmetic products containing hydroquinone, tretinoin, and miconazole are classified as medicinal substances and must be registered with the Drug Control Authority. These substances should only be used under the supervision of qualified healthcare professionals. Usage without medical guidance may lead to serious side effects.
For example, Hydroquinone may cause:
-Redness and discomfort on the skin where applied; Unwanted skin discoloration; Hypersensitivity; Inhibition of pigmentation (depigmentation), which reduces the skin’s protection against harmful UV rays; Increased risk of skin cancer
Tretinoin
-Can cause redness, irritation, stinging, peeling, and heightened sensitivity to sunlight on the area where applied.
Miconazole
-As an anti-fungal, its uncontrolled use can increase the risk of antifungal resistance, potentially reducing its effectiveness in treating infections in the future.
Warning to Sellers and Distributors:
Sellers and distributors must immediately stop the sale and distribution of these cosmetics. Doing so is an offence under the Control of Drugs and Cosmetics Regulations 1984.
Individuals found guilty may face:
-Fines up to RM25,000 or
-Imprisonment up to 3 years, or both (for first offence)
-For subsequent offences: fines up to RM50,000 or imprisonment up to 5 years, or both
Companies may face:
-Fines up to RM50,000 (first offence)
-Fines up to RM100,000 (subsequent offences)
Advisory to the Public:
-Members of the public who are currently using the affected products are advised to stop use immediately and seek medical advice if they experience any discomfort or adverse effects.
-The public is also encouraged to verify the notification status of cosmetics by visiting the official NPRA website: www.npra.gov.my"
Consumer News Region