In raids conducted as part of Operation Soundarya, to find spurious cosmetics in the market, the State Drugs Control department officials have seized perfumes/aftershave lotions with extremely high content of methyl alcohol, the use of which can lead to highly dangerous methanol toxicity in the body.
The perfume containing methyl alcohol (methanol) up to 95 % was seized by officials from a wholesale shop selling cosmetics at Marine Drive in Ernakulam.
Perfumes or aftershave lotions containing excessive amounts of methyl alcohol can be extremely toxic to humans as it can be absorbed by the body through the skin. Depending on the level and regularity of exposure, methanol toxicity can range from skin irritation, rashes, and burning sensation to systemic poisoning in extreme cases, if absorbed into the bloodstream. It can also lead to vision problems, nausea, headache, and serious complications.
Drugs Control officials have been given instructions to intensify their raids so that such spurious cosmetics can be taken off the market.
The high levels of methyl alcohol was found listed in a brand of perfume named ‘Karishma,” manufactured by an Ahmedabad-based firm. Methyl alcohol is one of the top toxic substances included in Schedule 1 of Kerala Poison Rules.
Most countries have strict regulations limiting the amount of methanol allowed in cosmetic products due to its potential toxicity as it can be harmful even when small amounts are absorbed by the body through skin. According to the Drugs and Cosmetics Act in the country, cosmetics containing substances such as methyl alcohol would be considered adulterated.
The product seized is listed as both a perfume and an after shave. If used as an after shave, methanol poisoning is possible as the toxic alcohol can easily enter the body through the minor cuts or abrasions on the shaved skin and cause serious health issues.
The Drugs Control department will be conducting enquiries into the licensing aspects of the Ahmedabad-based firm manufacturing the said product and take follow-up action, a statement issued by the office of the Health Minister said.
Manufacture and sale of spurious or adulterated cosmetics can invite a prison sentence of up to three years and a fine of at least ₹50,000
The inspections were conducted by a team of Drug inspectors led by the Assistant Drugs Controller, Ernakulam, Santhosh K. Mathew.
