The Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority has suspended the licenses of six popular beauty cream brands after they were found violating national safety and quality standards, with tests revealing the presence of hazardous substances, including mercury.

According to a written statement by Minister for Science and Technology Khalid Hussain Magsi, the affected cosmetic products failed to comply with Pakistan Standard Specification 3228:2025, which defines safety limits for personal care and cosmetic items in the country.

Among the suspended brands are Golden Pearl Beauty Cream, Parley 24K Gold Beauty Cream, Goree Beauty Cream, and Face Fresh Beauty Cream, along with other local products. The items were identified during routine market inspections, and samples were tested by the Pakistan Council of Scientific and Industrial Research.

Laboratory results reportedly confirmed that several creams contained unsafe levels of mercury, arsenic, and microbial contamination. Officials warned that such substances can pose serious health risks, including skin damage and long-term medical complications.

Following the findings, authorities have banned the manufacturing, sale, and distribution of non-compliant skin creams until manufacturers meet required safety standards. The suspended licenses will remain on hold until corrective measures are taken.

The regulator said nationwide monitoring is ongoing to remove unsafe products from the market as part of efforts to strengthen consumer protection and improve cosmetic safety standards.