Product safety reportOPSS
Embark My Freedom and Embark My Story Perfumes safety warning over a banned ingredient
Product Safety Report for Embark My Freedom and Embark My Story Perfumes presenting a serious chemical risk.
Check your product
Only products that match these details are covered. Have your pack in front of you.
4 identifiers listed for this notice.
Embark My Freedom and Embark My Story Perfumes
- BarcodeThe long number printed under the barcode.
- 8906096162023
- 8906096160074
- ModelOn the rating label, base, back or box.
- My Freedom
- My Story
What to do now
The issue with Embark My Freedom and Embark My Story Perfumes is a prohibited ingredient, of a kind often found in illegal skin-lightening and imported cosmetics.
- Stop using it now.
- Gently wash off any product left on the skin.
- This is a safety report rather than a manufacturer recall: the listing has been taken down, but the seller may not contact you. Get in touch with the seller through the marketplace.
- If you cannot reach the seller, Trading Standards can be told through Citizens Advice.
Why it matters. Substances such as hydroquinone, mercury and some steroids can damage the skin and, with long-term use, other organs. They are only allowed in prescription medicines, if at all.
If someone has been hurt
Look out for
- redness, burning, thinning or discolouration of the skin
- a rash
Get help urgently
- if you have used it for a long time, or have skin damage, speak to your GP or a pharmacist
This is general information based on NHS public guidance, not medical advice. In an emergency call 999. For urgent advice use NHS 111 (NHS 24 on 111 in Scotland) or, in Northern Ireland, your GP or out-of-hours service.
Getting your money back
Contact the seller through your order history and say that the product is the subject of an OPSS safety report. Keep screenshots of the listing and your order.
If the seller does not respond, the marketplace’s own dispute process or your card provider is the next step.
From the official notice
Published by the Office for Product Safety and Standards (2410-0091). Quoted as issued.
Summary
Product Safety Report for Embark My Freedom and Embark My Story Perfumes presenting a serious chemical risk.
The risk
The products present a serious chemical risk as they contain butylphenyl methylpropional (BMHCA/lilial), which is prohibited in cosmetic products. BMHCA may harm the reproductive system, may harm the health of the unborn child, and may cause skin sensitisation.
The products do not meet the requirements of Regulation (EC) 1223/2009.
Action taken
Destruction of the product.
Advice to consumers
The product has been destroyed.
We recommend that consumers stop using the product immediately and contact the distributor for redress.
Additional information
PSD notification number: 2410-0091
Notified by: Local Authority Trading Standards
Product description
Two fragrances sold in blue and black packaging.
Open the OPSS notice
Questions
Why has Embark My Freedom and Embark My Story Perfumes been reported?
The issue with Embark My Freedom and Embark My Story Perfumes is a prohibited ingredient, of a kind often found in illegal skin-lightening and imported cosmetics. Substances such as hydroquinone, mercury and some steroids can damage the skin and, with long-term use, other organs. They are only allowed in prescription medicines, if at all.
How do I know if my product is affected?
Compare the barcode and model on your product with the details listed under “Check your product” on this page. Only items that match are covered by the notice.
What should I do now?
Stop using it now. Gently wash off any product left on the skin.
Can I get a refund or a repair?
Contact the seller through your order history and say that the product is the subject of an OPSS safety report. Keep screenshots of the listing and your order. If the seller does not respond, the marketplace’s own dispute process or your card provider is the next step.
