A popular skin-whitening product, Goree Beauty Cream, has come under the scanner after being linked to a series of severe kidney ailments in the city. Over the past two years, at least 18 women have reportedly developed serious kidney-related illnesses, with medical investigations tracing the cases to a common factor — the prolonged use of the Pakistan-manufactured fairness cream.
An investigation by the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) found that the cosmetic contained dangerously high levels of mercury, a toxic heavy metal banned in cosmetic products due to its serious health risks.
According to laboratory reports, the cream contained mercury levels 752 times higher than the permissible safety limit. Mercury is sometimes illegally added to unregulated or counterfeit skin-lightening products because it suppresses melanin production, resulting in a temporary whitening effect. However, experts warn that the metal is readily absorbed through the skin and gradually accumulates in the body, causing irreversible damage to the kidneys, nervous system and other vital organs.
The cluster of kidney disease cases first came to light after doctors observed that all 18 patients had a history of regularly using the same fairness cream. Subsequent laboratory analysis confirmed the presence of extremely high mercury concentrations, strengthening suspicions that the cosmetic was the source of the toxicity. Health experts cautioned that mercury poisoning often develops gradually, with symptoms appearing only after months of continuous use.
The revelations have triggered concern over the availability of unapproved imported cosmetics in the Indian market. The product was reportedly being sold through several online platforms, including Meesho.
Responding to the controversy, Meesho said it has initiated an internal investigation and has begun removing the product from its platform, stating that customer safety remains its highest priority.
Meanwhile, health professionals and digital health advocates have urged consumers to stop using unverified skin-lightening products and to check whether family members, particularly those in rural and semi-urban areas, are using such creams. They have also advised people experiencing unexplained fatigue, swelling, skin irritation or other symptoms after using cosmetic products to seek immediate medical attention.
The incident has renewed calls for stricter regulation of cosmetic products, stronger surveillance of online marketplaces and greater public awareness about the health risks associated with unregulated skin-whitening creams.
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