CDSCO Issues Health Alert on Pakistani Whitening Creams Laced with Heavy Metals

The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) has sounded the alarm on two whitening creams that have been sneaking onto Indian shelves – Goree Beauty Cream and Chandni Whitening Cream. Both products proudly display a “Made in Pakistan” label, but behind that badge lies a serious safety concern.

During routine testing, the Cosmetics Division of CDSCO discovered that these creams exceed the permissible limits for heavy metals such as lead, mercury and cadmium. In other words, they are not just ineffective – they could actually poison the skin and, over time, affect internal organs.

What makes the situation worse is that neither product carries the mandatory registration certificate required for cosmetics imported into India. Without that licence, the creams are effectively illegal – they have not been vetted for safety, efficacy or labelling standards.

According to the Cosmetics Act of 1940 and the Cosmetics Rules of 2020, any cosmetic intended for sale in India must obtain a licence from the State Licensing Authority. Imported items need an extra registration with the Central Licensing Authority. These two creams skipped that entire process.

CDSCO’s public notice, dated September 8, 2026, urges consumers to stop buying these creams immediately. If you already have a tube at home, the advice is simple: throw it away. The regulator also cautions against any other products bearing the same brand names, as they could be part of the same unauthorised batch.

Retailers, distributors and advertisers are not exempt either. The agency has warned them to halt any sales, promotions or online listings of the flagged items. State and Union Territory Drugs Controllers, along with CDSCO’s zonal and port offices, have been instructed to tighten checks and seize any further stock.

For shoppers, the takeaway is to become a little more vigilant. Always look for key details on the packaging – a manufacturing licence number, the name of the producer, batch and expiry dates, and for imports, a registration number. If any of these are missing or look suspicious, report it to your local State Drugs Controller or directly to the Drugs Controller General of India.

While the news may feel alarming, it also highlights a positive sign: the regulatory system is actively monitoring the market and stepping in when risks emerge. Stay informed, read labels carefully, and choose cosmetics that are fully authorised – your skin (and health) will thank you.