Korea’s Health Ministry Warns Against Misleading Ads for Whitening & Anti-Wrinkle Cosmetics

South Korea’s Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) has issued a warning about the growing number of false and exaggerated advertisements for whitening and anti-wrinkle functional cosmetics.

As public interest in anti-aging and skincare continues to rise, some companies have begun using misleading claims such as “cell regeneration,” “anti-aging treatment,” and “anti-inflammatory effects” — phrases that suggest medical-level efficacy — to attract consumers.

Whitening functional cosmetics are designed to brighten the skin by suppressing melanin production or reducing existing pigmentation, typically using ingredients such as niacinamide and arbutin.
Meanwhile, anti-wrinkle functional cosmetics contain adenosine and retinol, which help boost collagen production and improve skin elasticity.

The MFDS advised consumers to immediately stop using any product if they experience redness, swelling, or itching, and to consult a dermatologist. Consumers are also urged to choose a suitable product type (cream, lotion, mask, etc.) for their skin and to strictly follow the usage instructions on the label to prevent side effects.

Officials also cautioned that injecting cosmetics into the skin using microneedles or similar devices is unsafe, urging users to check for the official “functional cosmetics” mark or statement on the product packaging before purchase.