NY AG Orders Companies to Halt Sale of Toxic Skin Lighteners

New York – The Office of the New York Attorney General (OAG) has taken decisive action against three companies accused of selling dangerous skin-lightening products laced with illegal levels of mercury. Aleena Cosmetics, Axabee Skincare, and Singhcart, LLC have been ordered to immediately halt sales following an investigation by the OAG.

The OAG’s probe revealed that these companies were selling a range of cosmetics containing mercury concentrations up to 30,000 times greater than the legal limit under New York state law. Attorney General Letitia James has warned New Yorkers about the health risks associated with these products, including neurological damage, kidney and liver harm, and serious risks to fetal development.

“Mercury is poison, not a beauty treatment,” said Attorney General James. “These companies are putting New Yorkers’ health at risk, and we will not stand for it.” The OAG investigation was prompted by reports from public health advocates and community organizations. Independent laboratory testing confirmed the presence of illegal mercury levels in products purchased from Aleena Cosmetics and Axabee Skincare.

Cease-and-desist letters have been issued to the three companies, demanding that they stop selling any products containing unlawful levels of mercury within five business days. Failure to comply may result in legal action and civil penalties of up to $2,500 per violation per day.

Skin-lightening products are often marketed to women of color and sold in immigrant and minority communities. These products frequently contain harmful substances such as mercury, which can contaminate household items and pose risks to individuals who do not directly use the products. New Yorkers are advised to avoid products that do not list ingredients, or those containing mercury or other hazardous substances.

Consumers who have used these non-prescription skin-lightening products should consult their healthcare provider about testing for mercury exposure. Symptoms of mercury poisoning include irritability, tremors, memory problems, changes in vision or hearing, depression, and numbness or tingling in the hands, feet, or around the mouth.

RELATED: PPE Lie: Edison Execs Plead Guilty to $10M Scam

RELATED: Elderly Targeted: $5M Scam Lands Dominican National in US Jail