Toxic watchdog BAN Toxics is calling on content creators and online sellers to remove social media posts, advertisements, and listings promoting banned skin-lightening products containing hazardous mercury.

Recent monitoring by the group found these illegal products widely advertised on platforms like TikTok, Facebook Reels, and e-commerce sites such as Lazada and Shopee.

Last year, BAN Toxics purchased 50 skin-whitening products online and tested them using a Vanta C Series XRF Handheld Chemical Analyzer.

Forty-four tested positive for mercury, with levels ranging from 7 parts per million (ppm) to a staggering 67,400 ppm—far exceeding the 1 ppm limit set by the ASEAN Cosmetics Directive. Thirty-three of these products have been flagged in public health advisories by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) from 2013 to 2024 due to their mercury content.

The World Health Organization lists mercury as one of the top 10 chemicals of major public health concern. Even minimal exposure can cause severe health issues, including harm to fetal development; early childhood; and the nervous, digestive, and immune systems. It can also damage the lungs, kidneys, skin, and eyes.

“We are dismayed that some content creators and online sellers continue to use social media platforms to advertise and sell prohibited beauty products despite existing chemical regulations in the country,” said Thony Dizon, advocacy and campaign officer of BAN Toxics. “The sale and promotion of mercury-laden beauty products must stop.”

Following a House of Representatives’ probe into the spread of fake news on social media, BAN Toxics is highlighting the rampant misinformation surrounding these toxic products. Despite being illegal, they are marketed with misleading claims that endanger consumers. Meta’s recent decision to remove fact-checking labels from Facebook and Instagram has exacerbated the issue, allowing misinformation to spread unchecked.

BAN Toxics is urging social media platforms, online sellers, and content creators to take responsibility for consumer safety and stop spreading misinformation. The group also calls on regulatory agencies, including the FDA and the Department of Trade and Industry, to investigate and enforce actions against platforms and sites violating health, safety, and e-commerce laws.

Without stronger enforcement, deceptive marketing of these dangerous products will continue to jeopardize public health.