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Ghana to ban whitening cosmetics containing hydroquinone
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Hydroquinone in cosmetics is banned in many countries, including the US, Japan and Australia. (Shutterstock/-)
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mid the rise in popularity of skin bleaching among youths and celebrities in Ghana, the country is set to ban the sale of cosmetics containing hydroquinone, a dangerous whitening substance.
The new regulation, which will be implemented in August, will prevent Ghanaians from using imported products containing cancer-causing chemicals. Hydroquinone is banned in many countries including the US, Japan, Australia and in the EU.
(Read also: Itsy-bitsy 'facekinis' a hit for China white skin lovers)
“Concerning skin lightening products, we are saying that from August 2016, all products containing hydroquinone will not be allowed into the country. From 2016, the acceptance for skin lightening products is going to be zero,” Ghana’s Food and Drugs Authority spokesperson James Lartey told ghanastar.com.
Professional boxer Bukom Banku is among the celebrities who have inspired many Ghanaians to bleach their skin to get ahead. Banku recently said he had gained a national assignment from President John Mahama as Ghana’s ambassador to Germany thanks to his lightened skin tone.
“Bleaching can’t affect my skin because I have very good skin. Again, rashes can’t affect me because I am using Cleaning Claire and I am taking medicine as well. If I don’t bleach they won’t give me that position," he reportedly said. (kes)
