A hair care company based in east China's Zhejiang Province has been ordered to rectify problems caused to businesses following investigations which confirm its "certain" products for Singapore and Hong Kong markets contained a banned chemical.
Initial results from the provincial drug supervision department determined that some products made by the Zhangguang 101 Co., Ltd for the Singapore and Hong Kong markets were found to have contained Minoxidil, a type of anti-hypertensive drug, according to a statement released Friday by the State Food and Drug Administration (SFDA).
The drug, according to clinical studies, stimulates hair growth and slows balding. Its side effects include possible itching, redness or irritation of the skin.
Minoxidil is banned as an ingredient for cosmetic products.
In addition, the company was found to have other problems including incomplete manufacturing records and nonstandard proof-testing.
Further investigation is underway regarding the existence of Minoxidil in other products.
The statement didn't specify which products contain the banned material.
The provincial drug supervision department has urged the group to rectify its problems.
The SFDA said it will manage the matter "in accordance with laws and regulations" once the final results are confirmed.
In addition, the SFDA urged food and drug supervision departments at all levels to strengthen supervision over cosmetic products, with a focus on banned or limited materials.
