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Bleaching and Skin of Colour
Our goal is to help dermatologists, healthcare professionals and patients better understand the widespread issue of unregulated skin lighteners, many of which contain banned or harmful ingredients, and to support efforts for safer patient care and regulatory change
Introduction
This page presents verified information on the risks, regulation, and use of skin-lightening products, with a focus on public health and clinical education. All data provided here—including the full list of tested products—is sourced directly from London Trading Standards (LTS) and compiled by Southwark Council Trading Standards, based on investigations conducted between 2014 and 2023 (last updated June 2024).
Our goal is to help dermatologists, healthcare professionals and patients better understand the widespread issue of unregulated skin lighteners, many of which contain banned or harmful ingredients, and to support efforts for safer patient care and regulatory change.
Skin Lightening Products Found to Contain Prohibited Ingredients
We are sharing here, with full attribution, the official list of skin lightening products tested and found to contain prohibited or dangerous ingredients, as reported by London Trading Standards and compiled by Southwark Council Trading Standards. We thank them for their public service and continued work on consumer safety.
This list covers products seized from various retailers across London from 2014 to 2023, most commonly due to the presence of substances such as hydroquinone, mercury, or high strength corticosteroids. These ingredients pose serious health risks and are prohibited in over-the-counter cosmetic products in the UK and many other countries.
Important: We have not conducted independent testing. This data is published here with the intention of increasing awareness and accessibility for dermatology professionals and the public.
Why Share This Information?
Raise Awareness: Many of these products are still sold through informal channels, often without proper labelling or regulation. Public access to this information can help reduce harm.
Improve Clinical Guidance: Dermatologists must be able to identify products patients may be using and understand the associated risks.
Support Advocacy & Policy: Sharing LTS’s findings contributes to ongoing efforts toward stronger regulatory enforcement and consumer protection.
Safety and Awareness Resources
To support education around the health and social implications of skin bleaching, we’ve gathered a set of resources related to safe practice, patient communication, and alternatives.
