China Bans Phenol-Containing Whitening Cream From Avon

China’s Food and Drug Administration ordered the removal of Avon’s Naturals Rose and Rose Hips Fairness Cream skin-whitening cream from the market after it was found to contain phenol, a prohibited substance. According to Beijing Society for Environmental Science deputy secretary-general Dong Jinshi, the substance may affect female fertility and may cause liver and kidney damage. Avon’s China division said the cream is not included in its local catalogue; however, it is sold on Chinese online stores and has a serial number from local authorities.