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A recent study in India has linked the use of skin-lightening creams, often endorsed by social media influencers, to a rise in kidney problems.
The creams, found in unregulated markets, contain mercury which can damage kidney filters, leading to symptoms like fatigue and frothy urine.
The study also found a high prevalence of a rare form of kidney disease, often associated with cancer, in users of these creams, prompting urgent calls for regulation of these harmful products.

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The study examined 22 cases of MN reported over a two-year period

Skin lightening creams linked to rising kidney problems in India

By Chanshimla Varah

Apr 14, 2024

02:23 pm

What's the story

A recent study published in the medical journal Kidney International has revealed a concerning trend in India: an increase in kidney problems seemingly tied to the use of skin-lightening creams. The study suggests that the high mercury content found in these creams is leading to a surge in cases of Membranous Nephropathy (MN), a condition that damages kidney filters and results in protein leakage.

Case analysis

Study details: Mercury in creams damages kidney filters

Dr. Sajeesh Sivadas from Aster MIMS Hospital's Department of Nephrology explained how mercury penetrates the skin and damages kidney filters, causing an increase in nephrotic syndrome cases. The study examined 22 cases of MN reported over a two-year period. Patients presented mild symptoms such as fatigue, slight swelling, and frothy urine. All patients had high protein levels in their urine—a sign of damaged kidney filters. One patient suffered a brain blood clot; however, patients managed to maintain their kidney function.

Unsettling discovery

High prevalence of rare MN form linked to cream usage

The study discovered that approximately 68%, or 15 out of the 22 patients, tested positive for neural epidermal growth factor-like 1 protein (NELL-1)—a rare form of MN often associated with cancer. Among these 15 patients, 13 admitted to using skin-lightening creams before they started experiencing symptoms. "These creams, widely available in India's unregulated markets, promise quick results, but at what cost? Users often describe a disturbing addiction, as stopping usage leads to even darker skin," Sivadas said.

Public health crisis

Urgent call for action against harmful skin lightening creams

Sivadas also expressed concern about the role of social media influencers and actors who endorse these creams, contributing to their popularity in a multibillion-dollar industry. He emphasized the need for immediate action to regulate these harmful products and protect public health. "This isn't just a skincare/kidney health issue; it's a public health crisis," he said. "And if mercury applied to the skin can cause such harm, imagine the implications if consumed," he warned.