A London woman has been caught selling toxic skin-lightening products that have been found to increase the risk of cancer. Trading standards officers at Barnet Council discovered over 3,500 of these dangerous products during a search of Ofure Patience Ehizode’s property. The Swedish authorities had tipped off the council about the illegal cosmetics being sold by Ehizode.
Ehizode, who ran the business EllaGold Ltd, admitted to selling products containing harmful chemicals known to cause serious health issues. She was given a 12-month community order and a fine of £16,814 after appearing at Willesden Magistrates Court. The court found her guilty of breaching Cosmetics Products Enforcement Regulations 2013 on multiple counts on behalf of herself and the company, where she serves as the sole director.
Barry Rawlings, the leader of Barnet Council, emphasized the danger of illegal skin-lightening products and the importance of cracking down on those who sell them. He expressed the council’s commitment to protecting residents and holding accountable anyone involved in selling such harmful products.
Recent research has highlighted the popularity of skin lightening among Black, Asian, and minority ethnic communities. Many individuals who use these products may not be aware of the health risks involved, including an increased risk of skin cancer, liver, and kidney damage. Colourism, a type of discrimination based on skin tone, often drives the use of skin-lightening products, particularly prevalent in various regions globally.
While some skin-lightening products are legal, many are banned in the UK due to the presence of toxic substances that can cause severe health issues and permanent skin damage. Products seized during the investigation were found to contain hydroquinone, a substance known to accelerate skin ageing, weaken the skin, and cause liver damage. Hydroquinone also heightens the risk of skin cancer.
This incident follows a case in which an eBay vendor in south London received a suspended prison sentence for selling over 20,000 harmful skin-lightening products. Calls have been made by politicians and campaigners for stricter government measures to clamp down on the sale of such harmful items.
The sale and use of toxic skin-lightening products remain a significant concern, especially given the potential health risks associated with these products. Efforts to raise awareness, enforce regulations, and campaign against the use of such hazardous cosmetics are crucial in protecting public health and combatting the worrying trend of skin lightening.