Korea Issues Recall of Two Cosmetics Products Over Ingredient Discrepancies

The Drug Administration has ordered the recall of two cosmetics products after tests revealed discrepancies between labeled ingredients and actual formulations, according to official records. The decision follows findings that the products contained unlisted ingredients.

What Products Are Being Recalled?

The affected products include Dr. Clean Peach Hand Wash and 영 라우 마 허벌 스킨 크림. The hand wash, manufactured by 비코화학제품 1인 유한회사 and sold by 코지 제약화장품 주식회사, has a batch number V412 04, produced on August 18, 2025, with a shelf life until August 17, 2028. The skincare cream, distributed by 메콩 베트남 무역 개발 합작 회사 and manufactured by 비도파마 미국 제약 합작 회사 롱안 지점, carries batch number 011124, produced on November 28, 2024, and expires on November 28, 2027.

Testing revealed the hand wash contained 벤조산나트륨 (sodium benzoate), an ingredient not listed on the label. Similarly, the skincare cream was found to include 메틸파라벤 (methylparaben) and 프로필파라벤 (propylparaben), which were absent from both the label and the submitted formulation records.

What Regulatory Actions Have Been Taken?

The Drug Administration has requested that relevant provincial and municipal health authorities notify cosmetics businesses and consumers to immediately stop the trading and use of the two batches of products and return them to suppliers for recall. Local health authorities in Hanoi, Haiphong, Ho Chi Minh City, and Tay Ninh are overseeing the recall, disposal, and cancellation of the product registration numbers for these two cosmetic products, with instructions to inspect compliance and take action against violating institutions and individuals. The agency also requires enterprises to send recall notices to the entire distribution network, receive returned products, and recall and destroy all violating products.

Why Does This Matter for Consumers?

Consumers are advised to stop using these two batches and return them to suppliers.

What Are the Broader Implications?

The authorities are directing the review of all production batches of the same products and the implementation of recall measures if similar violations are found. Relevant businesses will also be inspected to ensure compliance with regulations on cosmetic production and sales.

How Can Consumers Stay Informed?

Authorities have requested that businesses and consumers stop using the products and return them to suppliers.