SINGAPORE — The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) has issued an alert to members of the public regarding three types of Tabita cosmetic products which were tested and found to contain potent undeclared ingredients, namely hydroquinone, tretinoin, salicyclic acid and mercury. The affected products are Tabita Skincare Smooth Lotion, Tabita Skincare Daily Cream and Tabita Skincare Nightly Cream.

In a statement, HSA says it was alerted to these products after receiving a report about a patient who had developed rashes on her face and neck, and another report of unexpected rapid whitening of the skin after using Tabita products. These illegal products, which are sourced overseas, are currently sold through the internet. Members of the public are advised to stop using and discard the affected products as they may cause harmful effects.

The HSA has also warned that hydroquinone and tretinoin are potent ingredients used in western prescription medicines to treat skin conditions, and are prohibited in skincare cosmetic products under the Health Products Act. It added that the sale and distribution of the Tabita products here is illegal, and advised consumers to exercise discretion in their purchase of cosmetic products.