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Environmental health Investigations branch

Mercury in Skincare Products

Skincream containers containing mercury Mercury is a chemical that is harmful to people's health. It is often found in skincare products advertised to lighten and brighten the skin, and remove wrinkles, sunspots, dark marks, freckles, and acne.

When a skincare product containing mercury is in the home, the whole family is at risk! Mercury can enter a person's body through applying the skincare product to skin. Mercury vapor also enters the air making these products harmful for all in the home. Pregnant people, women of reproductive age and children are especially at risk of mercury poisoning. 

Skincare products containing mercury are sold by individuals, in small markets or swap meets, or online. They may not have a label, and some have handmade labels. They can be categorized as  commercial, artisanal, and tainted by a third-party, well-known products​.

If you have a skincare product containing mercury in your home, please:

  • Stop using the product immediately.
  • Put the product in a sealed, plastic bag and dispose of as household hazardous waste. (Visit the CalRecycle website to see where your County's hazardous waste site is located.)
  • Ask a doctor or care provider for mercury tests in blood and urine.
  • Contact us at (510) 981-4354 or send an email to AskEHIB@cdph.ca.gov
  • Visit the Skincare Products Containing Mercury web page to learn about which products to avoid.​

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