Divine Aleru is an accomplished biochemist and researcher with a specialized background in environmental toxicology, focusing on the impacts of heavy metals on human health. With deep-rooted expertise in microbiome signatures analysis, Divine seamlessly blends rigorous scientific training with her passion for deciphering the intricate relationships between environmental exposures and the human microbiome. Her career is distinguished by a commitment to advancing integrative health interventions, leveraging cutting-edge microbiome research to illuminate how toxic metals shape biological systems. Driven by curiosity and innovation, Divine is dedicated to translating complex environmental findings into actionable insights that improve individual and public health outcomes. 
Divine Aleru is an accomplished biochemist and researcher with a specialized background in environmental toxicology, focusing on the impacts of heavy metals on human health. With deep-rooted expertise in microbiome signatures analysis, Divine seamlessly blends rigorous scientific training with her passion for deciphering the intricate relationships between environmental exposures and the human microbiome. Her career is distinguished by a commitment to advancing integrative health interventions, leveraging cutting-edge microbiome research to illuminate how toxic metals shape biological systems. Driven by curiosity and innovation, Divine is dedicated to translating complex environmental findings into actionable insights that improve individual and public health outcomes. What was studied?
This systematic review focused on assessing the global exposure to mercury from skin-lightening products. The study compiled and analyzed data from 41 peer-reviewed studies conducted between 2000 and 2022. The review examined mercury concentrations in skin-lightening products, human biomarker measurements (including hair, blood, and urine mercury levels), product usage patterns, and associated health impacts of mercury exposure. A total of 787 product samples and 1,042 biomarker measurements from 863 individuals were included in the review.
Who was studied?
The study population included individuals using skin-lightening products across various regions worldwide. The review considered data from 3,898 individuals regarding product usage and 832 individuals who reported health impacts associated with mercury exposure. The sample also included individuals from 22 countries, with a focus on populations in regions with higher use of skin-lightening products, such as Africa, Asia, and the Eastern Mediterranean. The analysis also considered human biomarkers of exposure, including data from case studies involving individuals with high mercury exposure due to prolonged use of mercury-added skin-lightening products.
Most important findings
The review revealed significant variability in mercury concentrations in skin-lightening products, with levels ranging from 0 to 314,387 µg/g. The median concentration was found to be 0.49 µg/g, with a broad interquartile range from 0.02 to 5.9 µg/g. This indicates that many products exceed the safe limit of 1 µg/g mercury, as set by the Minamata Convention. Notably, products manufactured in regions like Southeast Asia, the Eastern Mediterranean, and the Western Pacific had higher mercury concentrations. The study also identified high mercury levels in biomarkers of exposed individuals, with urinary mercury concentrations often exceeding safe thresholds. Mercury exposure through these products was linked to various health issues, including nephrotic syndrome, neurological disorders, and hyperpigmentation, particularly in vulnerable populations such as women of childbearing age and young children.
Key implications
The findings have significant implications for public health and regulation, highlighting the persistent presence of mercury in skin-lightening products despite existing bans. There is a need for more stringent enforcement of the Minamata Convention on Mercury, especially in low-income regions where regulations are often weak. The review suggests the need for better monitoring and stricter importation controls to prevent the distribution of mercury-contaminated products. Additionally, the health risks associated with exposure to mercury from these products warrant increased awareness and education campaigns, particularly in regions where skin-lightening products are popular. It is essential to enhance data collection on the use of these products and to enforce laws that require manufacturers to disclose ingredient information and mercury content.
Citation
Bastiansz, A., Ewald, J., Saldaña, V. R., Santa-Rios, A., & Basu, N. (2022). A Systematic Review of Mercury Exposures from Skin-Lightening Products. Environmental Health Perspectives, 130(11), 116002. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP10808
Mercury (Hg) is a neurotoxic heavy metal found in various consumer products and environmental sources, making it a major public health concern. Its regulation is critical to protect vulnerable populations from long-term health effects, such as neurological impairment and cardiovascular disease. The HMTC program ensures that products meet the highest standards for mercury safety.
