Nonhlanhla Khumalo is on a mission to get harmful beauty products off our streets. 

             

                                                                                                                                                                                                     "The lab offers opportunities for clinicians and scientists to collaborate in the effort to protect people from preventable harm,"   Khumalo said. File photo
  Image by: Gallo Images/Thinkstock

The University of Cape Town professor is behind the launch of a new lab that tests skin-lightening creams for dangerous ingredients, some linked to cancer.

Khumalo, who made headlines last year with her research into excessive amounts of formaldehyde in many hair-straighteners, tested skin-lightening products bought from informal traders and from pharmacies in Cape Town.

Her team checked them for substances such as mercury and hydroquinone. The results will be published later this year.

The laboratory was launched by UCT and Groote Schuur Hospital as the country's first "hair-testing and skin toxicology facility".

"The lab offers opportunities for clinicians and scientists to collaborate in the effort to protect people from preventable harm," Khumalo said.

"It is huge. It is a big money thing. African women want to be light in complexion. It stems from the US because the likes of Beyoncé are looking lighter every day. Nicki Minaj is not looking the same any more," said television personality Khanyi Mbau.

The executive director of the Cosmetic Toiletry and Fragrance Association of SA, Sally Gnodde, welcomed the establishment of the lab.

"Dark skin tones are beautiful naturally and there is no need to use dangerous products to change your natural beauty," said Gnodde.