Over 15000 Complaints Filed Against Kanebo

Kanebo reports that there has been over 15,000 complaints filed against the company in Japan.

Users of its skin whitening products that contain Rhododenol,” the synthetic form of 4-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-2-butanol, as an active brightening ingredient, are complaining of skin discoloration in the form of blotches.

The company has recalled its whitening products in domestic and overseas markets – and has also made a formal apology.

Because of the controversy, Kanebo’s parent company Kao lost around 6 percent of its market value – but plans to integrate its research and production divisions, to strengthen its cosmetics business operations.