Maryland consumers are warned that certain face creams, including “Crema Aguamary,” can contain high levels of mercury. These skin creams can cause serious health problems, and consumers are urged not to use them.

In November 2011 the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DHMH) was contacted about a skin cream sold in Mexico as “Crema Aguarmary.” The skin cream was tested and was found to have very high levels of mercury. The mercury in the cream was much more than allowed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Skin lightening products (also called skin brightening or fade products) are used to lighten skin tone, fade freckles, or get rid of age spots.

Use of these skin creams can cause serious health problems including problems with the nervous system, kidneys, skin, blood pressure, and digestive tract. Unborn babies, infants, and children are especially sensitive to the effects of mercury and lead.