By Analou De Vera

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned the public against the purchase and use of two cosmetic products that contain an ingredient that is not allowed in cosmetics.

The FDA said that cosmetic products Bao Fu Ling Snow Lotus Cream 15g and Bao Fu Ling Skincare Cream are “not compliant with the technical standards set forth by the ASEAN Cosmetic Directive (ACD).”

The agency said that the products contain Diphenhydramine, an antihistamine that is not allowed to be part of a cosmetic product based on the ACD.

“Adverse effects associated with topical application of Diphenhydramine include mild stinging, allergic reactions such as rash, hives, itching, swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat, and skin irritation. Side effects common to all antihistamines include nausea, dizziness, anxiety, dry mouth, blurred vision, difficulty urinating, and constipation,” the FDA said in its advisory No. 2019-141.

“Because of the hazards posed by the aforementioned products, the public is strongly advised to be vigilant and report to FDA any encounter with these products,” the agency added.

The public is advised to only purchase products that are registered with the FDA.

“If unsure of a product’s notification status, consumers may verify whether the product is authorized by FDA through the Search engine embedded in the FDA website accessible at www2.fda.gov.ph,” it said.