Identification of Mercury on Facial Creams Circulating in the City of Binjai

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 108 views

Identification of Mercury on Facial Creams Circulating in the City of Binjai

The Hidden Dangers of Mercury in Cosmetics

Mercury is a toxic substance that has been widely used in various cosmetic products, including facial whitening creams. Many women are deceived by the promise of instant results, but they are unaware of the dangers that mercury poses to their health. The use of facial cream made from mercury is increasingly widespread, but it is essential to remember that mercury has a devastating impact on vital organs such as kidneys, nerves, and brain. Therefore, the use of cosmetics containing mercury is strictly prohibited. This study aims to investigate whether the facial whitening cream on the Binjai City market contains mercury or not.

The Importance of Mercury-Free Cosmetics

Mercury is a highly toxic chemical that can cause a number of serious health problems, including damage to the nervous system, kidney failure, and mental health disorders. The use of cosmetics containing mercury is a significant concern for the community, especially women who often use facial whitening creams. The dangers of mercury in cosmetics cannot be ruled out, and consumers are often trapped in persuasion of advertising that promises bright skin in a short time without realizing the lurk health risks.

Methodology of the Study

The study was conducted by testing two types of facial whitening creams that were popular on the market, namely Cream Cream Colagen (Code A) and doctor's night cream (Code B). Sampling is done randomly to represent products that are truly circulating in the market. Analysis of mercury content is carried out through a qualitative method with the addition of potassium iodide and ammonium sulfate solution, which allows detection of mercury in the sample.

Research Result

The results showed that facial whitening creams that have code A (Colagen brand) are proven to contain mercury. Meanwhile, cream with code B (doctor's night cream) does not contain mercury. This finding is an important concern for the community, especially women who often use facial whitening creams, to be more careful in choosing the beauty products they use.

Additional Analysis and Explanation

The importance of understanding the dangers of mercury in cosmetics cannot be ruled out. Consumers are often trapped in persuasion of advertising that promises bright skin in a short time without realizing the lurk health risks. Mercury, as a very toxic chemical, can cause a number of serious health problems, including damage to the nervous system, kidney failure, and mental health disorders.

Proactive attitude in protecting themselves and the family is the key. The use of products that have been tested and registered with the Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM) are highly recommended, because these products are through a series of trials to ensure their safety and effectiveness. In addition, education about the composition of materials in cosmetics needs to be encouraged so that people are not fooled by misleading claims.

The Role of Education in Preventing Mercury Poisoning

Education is a crucial factor in preventing mercury poisoning. By knowing the composition of materials in cosmetics, people can make informed decisions about the products they use. The use of products that have been tested and registered with the BPOM is highly recommended, because these products are through a series of trials to ensure their safety and effectiveness.

Conclusion

The results of this study provide valuable information about the safety of beauty products used by the community, especially women in the city of Binjai. By knowing the dangerous content in cosmetics, it is hoped that people can be wiser in choosing products that are safe and free from harmful substances such as mercury. The use of cosmetics containing mercury is strictly prohibited, and consumers should be aware of the dangers of mercury in cosmetics.

Recommendations

Based on the findings of this study, the following recommendations are made:

The use of products that have been tested and registered with the BPOM is highly recommended.
Education about the composition of materials in cosmetics needs to be encouraged.
The community, especially women, should be aware of the dangers of mercury in cosmetics.
The government should take measures to prevent the use of cosmetics containing mercury.

Limitations of the Study

This study has several limitations, including:

The study only tested two types of facial whitening creams.
The study only analyzed the mercury content in the samples.
The study did not investigate the long-term effects of mercury poisoning.

Future Research Directions

Future research should focus on the following areas:

Investigating the long-term effects of mercury poisoning.
Analyzing the mercury content in other types of cosmetics.
Developing methods to detect mercury in cosmetics.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this study highlights the importance of understanding the dangers of mercury in cosmetics. The use of cosmetics containing mercury is strictly prohibited, and consumers should be aware of the dangers of mercury in cosmetics. Education is a crucial factor in preventing mercury poisoning, and the use of products that have been tested and registered with the BPOM is highly recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Mercury in Cosmetics

Q: What is mercury and why is it used in cosmetics?

A: Mercury is a toxic substance that has been widely used in various cosmetic products, including facial whitening creams. It is used to whiten the skin and to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Q: What are the dangers of mercury in cosmetics?

A: Mercury is a highly toxic chemical that can cause a number of serious health problems, including damage to the nervous system, kidney failure, and mental health disorders.

Q: How can I identify if a cosmetic product contains mercury?

A: You can check the ingredient list of the product to see if it contains mercury. However, some products may not list mercury as an ingredient, so it's always best to check with the manufacturer or the Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM) to confirm.

Q: What are the symptoms of mercury poisoning?

A: The symptoms of mercury poisoning can vary depending on the level of exposure and the individual's sensitivity. They can include headaches, fatigue, tremors, muscle weakness, and skin rashes.

Q: How can I prevent mercury poisoning from cosmetics?

A: You can prevent mercury poisoning from cosmetics by choosing products that have been tested and registered with the BPOM. You should also read the ingredient list carefully and avoid products that contain mercury.

Q: What should I do if I suspect that I have been exposed to mercury from a cosmetic product?

A: If you suspect that you have been exposed to mercury from a cosmetic product, you should seek medical attention immediately. Your doctor can provide you with treatment and advice on how to manage your symptoms.

Q: Can I use cosmetics that contain mercury if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?

A: No, you should not use cosmetics that contain mercury if you're pregnant or breastfeeding. Mercury can pass through the placenta and harm the developing fetus, and it can also pass into breast milk and harm the baby.

Q: How can I report a cosmetic product that contains mercury?

A: You can report a cosmetic product that contains mercury to the Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM) or to the local health authority. They will investigate the product and take action to remove it from the market if necessary.

Q: What are the consequences of using cosmetics that contain mercury?

A: The consequences of using cosmetics that contain mercury can be serious and long-lasting. They can include damage to the nervous system, kidney failure, and mental health disorders.

Q: Can I use cosmetics that contain mercury if I have a medical condition?

A: No, you should not use cosmetics that contain mercury if you have a medical condition. Mercury can interact with certain medications and worsen certain health conditions.

Q: How can I stay safe when using cosmetics?

A: You can stay safe when using cosmetics by choosing products that have been tested and registered with the BPOM. You should also read the ingredient list carefully and avoid products that contain mercury. You should also follow the instructions for use carefully and avoid using more than the recommended amount.

Q: What are the benefits of using mercury-free cosmetics?

A: The benefits of using mercury-free cosmetics include avoiding the risks of mercury poisoning, reducing the risk of skin problems, and promoting healthy skin.