The Chamber of Cosmetics Industry of the Philippines (CCIP) convened experts for a forum titled 'Breaking the Cycle: Ending Mercury Use in Skin Lightening Products' at the World Trade Center in Pasay City on Thursday, as reported by BusinessWorld.
According to Gemmin Louis C. Apostol, program head of the Ateneo School of Medicine and Public Health (ASMPH) Center for Research and Innovation, mercury exposure from cosmetics can lead to kidney damage, neurological disorders, and other serious health issues. The event highlighted that despite regulations, mercury-containing skin-lightening products remain widely available in the Philippine market.
Experts called for stronger enforcement of existing bans, increased public awareness, and collaboration among stakeholders to eliminate mercury from cosmetic products. The forum aimed to push for a complete phase-out of mercury in skin-lightening formulations to protect consumer health and the environment.