Hong Kong Customs today (March 6) alerted members of the public to a model of unsafe Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) exfoliating face wash gel as test results indicated that its pH value falls below the requirement specified in a safety standard, and advised people to stop using the product for safety’s sake.
Customs earlier received referrals from a related organisation that a model of suspected unsafe AHA exfoliating face wash gel was being supplied on the market. Customs officers immediately conducted inspections at different districts and successfully test-purchased the product concerned for safety testing. Results from the Government Laboratory revealed that the pH value of the product concerned was 2.5, which falls below the permissible limit of 3.5 for cosmetics containing AHA as specified in the relevant safety and technical standards for cosmetics. The product was suspected to be in contravention of the Consumer Goods Safety Ordinance (CGSO).
Customs officers subsequently conducted operations and searched the retailer, wholesaler and importer involved in the case. A total of 523 bottles of suspected unsafe AHA exfoliating face wash gel were seized. An investigation is ongoing.
Customs will continue to closely monitor the market situation and step up patrols. If any violations are found, Customs will take appropriate enforcement action.
Customs reminds members of the public to observe the following safety tips when purchasing and using beauty products:
– Do not buy or use beauty products of unknown composition or from doubtful sources;
– Stop using the beauty products and consider seeking medical advice if feeling unwell after use; and
– Purchase beauty products at reputable retail shops.
Customs is committed to the protection of consumer interests and regularly conducts spot checks and safety tests on consumer goods to ensure that they are reasonably safe for use by consumers.
Customs also reminds traders to comply with the statutory requirements of the CGSO to protect the safety of consumers. Under the CGSO, it is an offence to supply, manufacture or import into Hong Kong consumer goods unless the goods comply with the general safety requirements for consumer goods. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $100,000 and imprisonment for one year on first conviction, and $500,000 and imprisonment for two years on subsequent conviction.
Members of the public may report any suspected violations of the CGSO to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account ([email protected]) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).