The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) recommends that state residents who use skin lightening products stop using them. Since testing revealed that they may contain dangerous levels of mercury.

The implicated products were sold as skin lightening agents but may also be used as skin-smoothing products.

Fact sheet for General Public

Mercury in Skin Lightening Products (PDF)

Fact sheets for Health Care Providers

Product Testing

Skin Lightening Products Found to Contain Mercury, Hydroquinone and/or Steroids (PDF)

Skin Lightening Products can cause Health Problems
Facts for general public.

Mercury Poisoning from Skin Lightening Products
Facts for health care providers.

Urine Mercury Testing
Assess whether an individual has an elevated exposure to forms of mercury found in skin lightening products.

Community Outreach
Education about Skin Lightening Products.

Public Awareness and Education Grant
Increase public awareness and education on the health dangers associated with using skin lightening products.

Additives Used in Henna Tattoo Materials
Potential health concerns.