This action by the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Health follows a national recall request from the Ministry of Health for Lynshao cream products containing an ingredient not permitted in cosmetics.
According to the enforcement decision issued by the Legal Inspection Division of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Health on 20/4, Long Phung Khang Cosmetics Joint Stock Company, located in Linh Xuan Ward, failed to maintain the necessary conditions for cosmetic production after being licensed and produced products containing a banned substance.
Specifically, a 12 g jar of Lynshao skin whitening, acne prevention, and dark spot reduction cream (batch number 0234QN, manufactured on 9/11/2024) was found to contain Dexamethason, a corticosteroid active ingredient prohibited in cosmetics by regulation.
The company was fined 165 million VND and had its cosmetic production qualification certificate suspended for two months. It was ordered to recall and destroy all products manufactured between 6/1/2025 and 29/12/2025, totaling 107 batches.
Furthermore, the company must surrender 31 product announcement receipt numbers used during that period and recall and destroy all infringing Lynshao product batches.
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The recalled skin whitening cream. *Screenshot* |
Previously, in late 2025, the Ministry of Health had requested a nationwide recall of Lynshao cream products after testing results in Quang Ngai found samples positive for Dexamethason. The company was required to cease product circulation, accept returns from distributors, and complete destruction. Local Departments of Health were instructed to widely publicize and oversee the recall, with the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Health specifically tasked with directly inspecting and penalizing the company.
Dexamethason is a potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive active ingredient often misused in cosmetics to create a rapid whitening effect, reduce inflammation, and instantly make skin appear plump and shiny. However, prolonged use can lead to skin atrophy, dilated capillaries, acne breakouts, fungal infections, and even systemic effects such as glaucoma or cataracts.
Regulatory bodies are tightening management amidst Vietnam's rapidly growing yet risky cosmetics market. As demand for beauty products rises and online sales channels expand, unverified and substandard products tend to infiltrate the market, necessitating enhanced post-market surveillance and consumer protection.
Le Phuong
