The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a strong warning to the public about purchasing and using “unauthorized” cosmetic products that have not been subjected to its evaluation process.

On Thursday, Sept. 21, the FDA identified eight cosmetic products that were "not safe for use.”

The unauthorized products as per the FDA include "Cosrx Lip Plump Aha Bha Vitamin C Lip Plumpler Refresh,” “Ishin Premium Whitening Soap,” “Mokeer Lip Glaze,” “Hottie Cosmetics Fruity Tint Grapes,” “Cotton Time Sanitizing Wipes other Non-Medical Disinfectants Sterilization Rate 99.9%,” “The Face Shop Real Nature Kelp Varech,” “C.A. Capadosa Botox Whitening Day and Night Cream Spf 70,” and “Miss Betty Ice Cream Matte Moisturizing/Lip Gloss.”

The FDA's verification process, conducted through postmarketing surveillance, has revealed that these products lack a valid Certificate of Product Notification (CPN) as of Aug. 30, 2023.

Given that these unauthorized cosmetic products have not undergone its notification process, the agency cannot vouch for their quality or safety, the FDA said.

It was also noted that the utilization of such non-compliant products may pose serious health risks to consumers.

These potential hazards, the FDA said, could result from the inclusion of ingredients that are prohibited in cosmetic products or from contamination by heavy metals.

The FDA emphasized that using substandard and potentially contaminated cosmetic products could lead to severe reactions, including skin irritation, itchiness, anaphylactic shock, and even organ failure.

In light of these concerning findings, the public is strongly advised against purchasing the aforementioned unauthorized cosmetic products.

The FDA has also issued a directive to all concerned establishments, warning them not to distribute these violative cosmetic products until they have fully complied with the FDA's rules and regulations. (Zekinah Elize Espina)