The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) is working with three companies to suspend sales and recall Medicube PDRN Pink Collagen Capsule Cream after the product was reported to potentially contain a prohibited ingredient.
HSA said on 21 August 2026 that it is aware of recent reports involving the cream and has started an investigation. The product is suspected of containing Sudan Red, an industrial dye that is not allowed in cosmetic products sold in Singapore.
Consumers who have purchased the product are advised to stop using it as a precaution while HSA carries out testing.
Sudan Red is not allowed in cosmetics in Singapore
Sudan Red refers to a group of industrial dyes. It has been reported to have potential health risks because of possible carcinogenic and allergenic properties.
Under Singapore’s Health Products (Cosmetic Products, ASEAN Cosmetic Directive) Regulations 2007, Sudan Red dyes are prohibited ingredients in cosmetic products.
Companies or individuals found supplying cosmetic products that do not comply with these requirements may face a fine of up to S$50,000, a jail term of up to two years, or both.
However, HSA has not confirmed that Sudan Red is present in all Singapore-sold batches of the Medicube cream. Testing is ongoing, and the authority said it will take regulatory action if safety concerns are detected.
Online listings were still available before HSA announcement
On 24 July 2026, Hong Kong Customs issued a warning about the same Medicube cream, advising the public to stop using it and asking sellers to remove the product.
Checks by Mothership on 20 August 2026 found listings for the cream on online platforms including iHerb, Shopee and Lazada that were shown as in stock and available for delivery by the end of August 2026.
HSA said it is working with the three companies marketing the product to suspend sales and recall it.
What consumers should know about cosmetic products in Singapore
Cosmetic products sold in Singapore do not go through pre-market approval, certification or registration by HSA.
Instead, dealers must notify HSA before placing cosmetic products on the market and are responsible for ensuring their products comply with safety requirements. This includes making sure prohibited ingredients are not used, reporting serious adverse effects, and ensuring proper product labelling.
Consumers who experience any adverse effects after using cosmetic products can report them to HSA.