India Poised to Ban Mercury-Based Cosmetics Amid Rising Health Concerns

India set to ban mercury-based cosmetics to align with global safety standards and protect consumer health

In a landmark move to safeguard consumer health and align with global safety standards, the Government of India is considering a nationwide ban on mercury-based cosmetics. The proposed regulation follows a recommendation from a subcommittee of the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI), which flagged mercury as a toxic ingredient linked to serious health risks.

Mercury, commonly found in skin-lightening creams, anti-aging products, and certain eye makeup formulations, has long been associated with adverse effects such as skin rashes, discoloration, thinning, and even permanent scarring. More alarmingly, it can enter the bloodstream and cause long-term systemic damage.

Currently, Indian regulations permit limited mercury use—up to 70 parts per million (ppm) in eye-area cosmetics and 1 ppm in others. The proposed ban would eliminate any product exceeding this threshold, bringing India in line with the Minamata Convention on Mercury, a global treaty aimed at phasing out mercury in consumer goods.

The DCGI is also expected to roll out a compliance framework requiring cosmetic brands to self-declare mercury content, backed by surprise lab tests and random sampling by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO).

With India’s cosmetics market valued at ₹20 billion and growing rapidly, the ban could reshape ingredient sourcing, product formulation, and consumer awareness across the industry. It also signals a broader shift toward clean beauty and regulatory vigilance in one of the world’s most dynamic personal care markets.

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