Purpose of the Study

Some skin-lightening cosmetics have been found to contain mercury, a substance harmful to human health. The manufacture, import, and export of such products are prohibited under the Minamata Convention on Mercury. However, mercury-containing cosmetics are still reported in certain markets, especially in developing countries and through cross-border e-commerce.

This study aims to analyze cosmetics provided by the public to better understand the presence of mercury and contribute to the assessment of health risks and the effectiveness of international regulations.

Eligible Products

• Over-the-counter skin-lightening creams purchased outside of Japan
• Products obtained from online shopping platforms (e-commerce sites)

※Unopened products are preferred.

What Will Be Analyzed

• The mercury content in the product

How to Submit a Sample

Before sending any product, please contact us by email with the following information:

• 1.Product name
• 2.How it was obtained (e.g., store name, type of vendor, name of e-commerce site)
• 3.Country of purchase
• 4.Approximate date of purchase
• 5.Packaging status (unopened / opened)

Contact:

Cost & Results

• Analysis is free of charge
• Shipping costs are the responsibility of the sender
• Results will be individually communicated by email
• Submitted products will not be returned, so please send them only if you agree to this condition

※Note: This analysis only determines the presence or absence of mercury. It does not guarantee the overall safety of the product.

Use of Results

• Evaluation of the implementation and effectiveness of the Minamata Convention
• Collaborative research with UNEP
• Educational and awareness-raising materials
• Personal risk awareness for product users