Officials in the UK warned people about some skin-lightening creams. Some of the creams have banned ingredients and are illegal. They are on sale in UK stores. The creams could pose a serious threat to people's health. There has been an increase in the number of people with health problems after using the creams. These include rashes, burns and scars. The creams could increase the risk of skin cancer, and liver and kidney damage.
The global skin-lightening industry is worth $4.8 billion. It could double to around $8.9 billion in ten years. There are "rogue retailers" selling illegal skin-lightening lotions. They do not put the illegal substances on the labels. Some of the ingredients are like paint stripper. It can burn off the top layer of skin. Some cream is very dangerous and could seriously damage people's health. It could scar you for life or even kill people.