Introduction:
Recent studies have highlighted the potential dangers of using certain skincare products, including keratin-based hair-straightening products and fairness creams. In a recent study published in Kidney International, researchers from Kerala, India, have linked the use of fairness creams to nephrotic syndrome, a condition characterized by high levels of proteinuria.
The Study:
The study, titled “NELL-1 associated membranous nephropathy linked to skin fairness cream use — insights from an Indian case series,” reports a series of 15 cases of Membranous Nephropathy (MN) traced to the regular use of fairness creams. The researchers found high levels of mercury, a toxic heavy metal, in both the blood and urine samples of these patients. Further analysis of the fairness creams revealed that they contained mercury levels up to 10,000 times above the permissible limit of 1 ppm.
The Link Between Fairness Creams and Nephrotic Syndrome:
Dr. Ranjith Narayanan, a nephrologist practicing in Kozhikode, India, noticed a specific pattern in cases of MN diagnosed amongst his patients. They all had high levels of proteinuria but non-specific symptoms such as fatigue, mild edema, and frothy urine. After further investigation, Dr. Narayanan and his colleagues discovered that most of these cases were PLA2R negative and linked to NELL-1, a rare form of MN. The researchers then traced the source of the mercury to unregulated fairness creams, mostly sold in local shops and online platforms.
The Impact of Mercury:
Mercury is a highly toxic heavy metal used in fairness/anti-ageing creams due to its ability to inhibit the formation of melanin, resulting in a lighter skin tone. However, repeated topical use of mercury-containing skincare products can result in systemic toxicity, manifesting as damage to the kidneys and nervous system. The World Health Organization (WHO) lists skin discolouration and scarring, reduction in the skin’s resistance to bacterial and fungal infections, anxiety, depression, psychosis, and peripheral neuropathy as other potential adverse effects of mercury exposure.
The Larger Challenge:
Despite the dangers associated with mercury-containing skincare products, the concept of equating beauty with fair skin remains deeply ingrained in many cultures. As a result, people are often reluctant to stop using fairness creams, even after being warned of the potential health risks. Furthermore, online retailers continue to sell mercury-containing skincare products, despite bans and global treaties aimed at protecting consumers from the harmful effects of mercury exposure.
Conclusion:
The study highlights the potential dangers of using fairness creams, particularly those containing mercury. Healthcare professionals must remain vigilant and aware of the possibility of mercury poisoning when patients present with non-specific symptoms. Additionally, regulators and policymakers must take action to clamp down on all cosmetics containing mercury. Finally, changing societal attitudes surrounding skin colour and beauty remains a significant challenge in addressing this issue.
Source:
* ‘NELL-1 associated membranous nephropathy linked to skin fairness cream use — insights from an Indian case series,’ Kidney International, [Link], (Accessed on [Date])
* World Health Organization (WHO), Mercury and Health, [Link], (Accessed on [Date])
* Zero Mercury Working Group (ZMWG), Mercury-Containing Skin Lightening Products Sold by Online Retailers, [Link], (Accessed on [Date])
* Minamata Convention on Mercury, [Link], (Accessed on [Date])
Note: This article is intended for informational purposes only. Always consult with a healthcare professional for medical advice.
