A serious health incident in Van has sparked renewed warnings from medical professionals about the risks of using unregulated cosmetic products sold online. The case involved a woman, identified as D.K., who suffered life-threatening injuries after applying a skin whitening cream advertised on social media as a solution for “brightening skin” and “removing acne scars.”
From Online Purchase to Intensive Care
The incident occurred in the İpekyolu district about 15 days ago. D.K. purchased the cream through an e-commerce platform after seeing promotional claims about its skin-lightening and blemish-reducing effects. Once the product arrived, she applied it to her face and various parts of her body.
Shortly afterward, she experienced swelling, burning sensations, and redness on her face. Alarmed by her rapidly worsening condition, her family rushed her to Van Yüzüncü Yıl University (YYÜ) Dursun Odabaşı Medical Center, where she was admitted to intensive care.
Severe Reaction and Hospitalization
Professor Dr. Hatice Uce Özkol, a dermatologist at the hospital’s Faculty of Medicine, explained that D.K. was in critical condition upon arrival.
“Her condition was so severe that we kept her in intensive care for four days,” Prof. Dr. Özkol stated. “We administered strong medications, including high-dose corticosteroids and powerful immunosuppressive treatments. I personally witnessed how a single cream could send someone to the ICU.”
The aggressive reaction left D.K. with burns, wounds, and lingering discoloration on her body and arms. She has since been transferred to the dermatology unit, where she is undergoing treatment with protective and moisturizing creams.
The Hidden Danger in the Cream
Laboratory analysis of the cream revealed a high concentration of kojic acid—a skin-lightening agent that, in excessive amounts, can be corrosive and cause severe chemical burns.
“This level of kojic acid is essentially like pouring acid on your skin,” Prof. Dr. Özkol warned. “Please do not use creams of unknown origin, especially those imported from abroad without safety checks.”
She also stressed that many people who seek to treat minor blemishes with such products end up with more severe scarring and permanent skin damage.
Symptoms and Risks
When D.K. first arrived at the hospital, her condition was dire:
Shortness of breath
Extreme fatigue
Difficulty speaking
Burns resembling acid injuries on her face
The dermatologist emphasized that these symptoms were life-threatening and could have been fatal without immediate intervention.
Expert Warnings for the Public
Prof. Dr. Özkol urged the public to avoid purchasing and using cosmetic products—especially skin whiteners and lightening creams—without consulting a licensed dermatologist.
“If you have any skin problems, see your doctor. Otherwise, you could face problems that pose a serious threat to your life. Do not risk your health for the sake of a blemish.”
She reiterated that products sold online or brought in from abroad without regulation can contain harmful chemicals in dangerous concentrations.
A Broader Health Concern
Cases like this highlight a growing problem: the easy availability of unregulated cosmetics via social media and e-commerce sites. The lack of oversight means consumers are often unaware of the ingredients, potential side effects, or safe usage guidelines.
Medical experts advise:
Always read labels and check for health ministry approval.
Avoid products that make extreme claims like “instant whitening” or “scar removal in days.”
Report adverse reactions to healthcare providers and regulatory bodies.
Rely on dermatologist-recommended treatments for skin issues.
A Life-Saving Intervention
Thanks to the quick response of her family and the medical team, D.K.’s condition has stabilized. However, doctors say some scars may remain, particularly on her neck and arms, as a reminder of the chemical injuries. She will require ongoing dermatological care to support healing and reduce permanent skin damage.
The hospital’s decision to publicize her case aims to raise awareness and prevent similar incidents.
“Let this be a warning,” Prof. Dr. Özkol concluded. “Do not jeopardize your life for cosmetic purposes. A single product can cause irreversible harm.”
