Myanmar’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on October 16 warned the public against using 14 cosmetic products after laboratory tests detected harmful substances, contain prohibited chemicals and contaminated with bacteria.

The FDA said it oversees cosmetic products under the guidance of the Ministry of Health to ensure that products available to the public meet quality standards and are safe for use.

According to reports under the ASEAN Post-Marketing Alert System (PMAS), the 14 cosmetic products were identified in several ASEAN countries as unsuitable for use. The products are not registered with Myanmar’s FDA and may contain prohibited chemicals that pose health risks. Laboratory tests also found microbial growth in the products.

The FDA strongly advised the public not to use any of the 14 products due to the potential health hazards.

Using unsafe cosmetics may cause skin irritation, inflammation, and white or red patches. Harmful substances absorbed through the skin may also lead to numbness, muscle tremors, fatigue, headaches and depression. Long-term use could result in kidney damage and other health problems, the FDA warned.

The department also urged companies importing, distributing and selling cosmetics, including wholesale and retail outlets and online businesses, to refrain from importing, distributing or selling products declared unsafe and not registered with the FDA, in accordance with ethical business practices.

The FDA added that it plans to intensify market inspections in relevant regions and states to strengthen enforcement against unsafe cosmetic products.