Fairness Creams Linked to Dangerous Kidney Disease, Study Finds

In a recent study published in the medical journal Kidney International, researchers have found a significant correlation between the use of fairness creams and a serious kidney condition called Membranous Nephropathy (MN). The study examined 22 cases of MN reported between July 2021 and September 2023, and the results showed that around 68 per cent or 15 out of the 22 Patients tested positive for neural epidermal growth factor-like 1 protein (NELL-1), a very unusual type of MN.

The researchers found that 13 patients had admitted using skin fairness creams before their symptoms began, and a few among the others had a history of use of traditional indigenous medicines. The study concluded that most cases resolved on cessation of use of the inciting creams, highlighting the potential public health risk posed by these products.
Mercury, a toxic heavy metal found in fairness creams, is responsible for damaging kidney filters and causing protein leakage, leading to MN. This condition is characterized by massive proteinuria, peripheral edema, hypertension, frothy urine, and manifestations of thromboembolic phenomena.

Dr. Sajeesh Sivadas, Department of Nephrology, Aster MIMS Hospital, Kottakkal, Kerala, wrote in a post on X that mercury gets absorbed through the skin and wreaks havoc on kidney filters, leading to a surge in nephrotic syndrome cases. Fairness creams, widely available in India’s unregulated markets, promise quick results but come at a high cost, causing disturbing addiction and skin darkening upon discontinuation.

The US Food and Drug Administration has cautioned against the usage of skin creams, antiseptic soaps, and lotions as they are packed with high doses of mercury. These chemicals function as skin lighteners and anti-aging therapies that eliminate age spots, freckles, blemishes, and wrinkles. However, prolonged exposure to mercury through fairness creams can have serious long-term health consequences, including skin rashes, mood swings, memory loss, mental health issues like depression and anxiety, and muscle weakness.

In light of these findings, it is imperative to spread public awareness about the hazards of using such products and alert health authorities to curb this menace. Reading ingredient labels, conducting thorough research, and consulting with dermatologists are essential steps in making informed choices that prioritize both skin health and overall well-being.