Illegal skin lightening products are spreading in UK shops, including butchers and specialist food stores, warns the Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI). The creams often contain banned harmful substances like hydroquinone, mercury, and potent corticosteroids. These can cause serious health problems such as skin damage, infections, and even organ harm. Tendy Lindsay, former CTSI chair, said, “the sale of illegal skin lightening products is not only dangerous, it is unlawful.” She stressed shops have a legal duty to sell only safe products and cannot claim ignorance. The CTSI also highlighted that colourism in Black and Asian communities drives demand for these products. A recent BBC report shared stories of people suffering from these social pressures and unknowingly using harmful creams. One man from Essex used unlabelled skin whitening lotion as a teen and faced permanent skin damage later. Lindsay noted, “Colourism and harmful beauty standards can create vulnerability, and unscrupulous traders exploit those insecurities for profit.” A south London beauty store was recently fined over £30,000 for selling such products. Authorities urge people to avoid creams with banned ingredients, never use them on children, and consult doctors before using any skin tone altering lotions. CTSI also warns against buying these creams from unverified online sellers or social media, pointing out a growing unsafe market there. Shoppers are advised to buy only legally labelled cosmetics showing UK manufacturers and avoid products listing harmful chemicals. Reporting suspicious products or adverse reactions is strongly encouraged by officials.