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Naomi Ng

Almost half of a batch of tested body wash products in Hong Kong contain allergy-inducing preservatives, a Consumer Council report has found.
In addition, one body wash that did not contain preservatives was found to contain bacteria 169 times over the maximum limit.
At least 27 out of 60 body washes, shower gels and soaps were found to contain methylisothiazolinone (MIT) and methylchloroisothiazolinone (CMIT) – two preservatives widely used in cosmetics and household products.
In most of the products, the level of preservatives complied with international standards, but allergic reactions could still afflict some people, the report said.
Those allergic to MIT and CMIT could develop adverse skin reactions, including infections, rashes, redness and itchiness.
“The number of people who are allergic to MIT and CMIT has been increasing all over the world,” said Dr. Kingsley Chan, a council member of the Hong Kong Medical Association and a private dermatologist.
Chan said those with sensitive skin or eczema could still use the products, but would have to exercise caution.
Last year, European Union regulations banned the use of MIT and CMIT in leave-on products such as make-up items, sunscreens and lotions while lowering the limit for rinse-off products like body washes, according to the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, a European advisory group.
Sunflower Refreshing Body Wash, sold by popular grocery chain 759 Store, was found to contain bacteria 169 times over the maximum limit, according to mainland standards. The mould and yeast count was 28 times higher than safety standards.
759 Store founder and chairman Colis Lam Wai-chun told the Post the products had already been taken off the shelves on Wednesday night after the council notified them of the report’s findings.
Lam said they ordered 2,400 bottles from a local supplier and started selling them last November with only seven bottles remaining as of Thursday night.

The body wash was produced in a factory in Foshan, in the southern province of Guangdong in China.
“The supplier told us that there was no bacteria detected and it passed all tests when it was shipped out last year,” Lam said, who added that the remaining samples had been sent for testing.
Lam explained that it was possible the amount of preservatives added to the product was not enough to last the product’s entire shelf life, and could have caused bacteria to grow.
Chan explained that the bacteria could cause infections only if the skin had open wounds.
Michael Hui King-man, chairman of the council’s publicity and community relations committee, said 14 body wash products did not list out all their detailed ingredient information, while 13 others did not display expiry dates.
“Many of the products claim to contain natural ingredients or that a dermatologist has recommended them,” he said. “Consumers should read labels carefully to see what ingredients there are before purchasing.”
Hong Kong has no law regulating cosmetic products, but Hui said the Trade Descriptions Ordinance and the Consumer Goods Safety Ordinance provided adequate protection for consumers.



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Consumers

Hong Kong watchdog warns of allergy-inducing preservatives in dozens of bath products

Michael Hui King-man of the Consumer Council at a press conference in North Point on Thursday. Photo: Edward Wong

Various body wash products is seen at a Consumer Council press conference in North Point. 14JUL16 SCMP/ Edward Wong

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Hong Kong Economy

Health & Environment

In addition, a body wash is found to contain bacteria 169 times over the maximum limit


Consumer protection in Hong Kong

Hong Kong watchdog warns of allergy-inducing preservatives in dozens of bath products

.css-1c6uqr6{color:inherit;font-weight:inherit;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;line-height:inherit;overflow-wrap:break-word;}In addition, a body wash is found to contain bacteria 169 times over the maximum limit

In addition, a body wash is found to contain bacteria 169 times over the maximum limit