FOI Request - Skin Whitening Seizures

Request 101003693383

I’m interested in data on skin lightening/whitening/bleaching products that have been seized by the council’s trading standards team in the calendar years between 2014 and the end of 2024.

1.  The number of complaints and reports received about skin lightening/ whitening /bleaching products for each year from 2014 to 31st December 2024.

2.  The number of seizures of skin lightening/ whitening /bleaching products conducted by the council for each year from 2014 to 31st December 2024.

3.  For each seizure, if possible:
a.  The reason for the seizure (e.g., whether the products were illegal, harmful, misleading or something else)
b.  The number and street value (£) of products seized.
c.  Whether a fine was issued or if prosecution occurred.
d.  The ingredients of the products seized (e.g., hydroquinone, mercury, bleach, glutathione).
e.  The brand name(s) of the products seized.
f.  The form of the products seized (e.g., topical, intravenous, or another form).