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  • [The problem of the use of mercurials cosmetics in Senegal (author's transl)].

[The problem of the use of mercurials cosmetics in Senegal (author's transl)].

Toxicological European research. Recherche europeenne en toxicologie (1981-07-01)
G Gras, J Mondain
ABSTRACT

The use of skin-lightening preparations appears to be a problem for the coloured women in Africa as well as for the Black People in general. The mercurial creams occupy a place of choice into the most useful products for the skin depigmentation. An epidemiological study from twenty senegalese women using mercurials cosmetics has permitted to determine a mean value of 155,75 +/- 75,38 ppm Hg in scalp hair while the normal level is less than 10 ppm. An experimental study was realised with monkeys (Papio papio) treated with a soap containing mercuric biiodide. This study has shown, after only three months of experimentation, a significative augmentation of mercury levels in all the organs and specially in the kidneys and the hair.

MATERIALS
Product Number
Brand
Product Description

Sigma-Aldrich
Mercury(II) iodide, ACS reagent, ≥99.0%
Sigma-Aldrich
Mercury(II) iodide red, puriss. p.a., ACS reagent, red, ≥99.0% (RT)