The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has warned against the use of a skin-care product that was found to be laden with lead, and three brands of hair straighteners containing high levels of formaldehyde. Results of tested samples showed the face powder containing high levels of lead, exceeding the permissible limit set by the Gulf Standard Organization, under Specification No. GSO1943, the SDFA said in statement. Exposure to high levels of lead causes health risks, the statement added. The results also showed that three hair straightener products have high levels of formaldehyde, exceeding the permissible limit. The four products are: Maxdona Compact Powder 3, which is manufactured in China, and has a shelf life up to 12/2021; HP Firenze 2, validity date until 14/9/2018; Crazy Nash Silicon Therapy 2, manufactured in Brazil with a validity date until 02/2019; and Real Brazilian Keratin, manufactured in the United States, with an expiry date of 08/2019. The Authority has advised consumers not to use these products and get rid of any samples they may have in hand. It stressed the importance of purchasing products from reliable manufacturers who can be traced and reached. Vendors and agencies distributing these products have been asked to stop their sale immediately. The Authority is taking the necessary measures, in coordination with the competent authorities, to ensure these products are withdrawn from the market and new stocks do not enter the Kingdom. It also plans legal action against the violators.
