A South Korean foot cream by Derma:B, priced at just HK$88, performed just as well as one from Sabon costing nearly triple, with both receiving top rating in a Consumer Council test released Thursday.
The consumer watchdog selected 10 models for skin hydration performance tests and chemical analysis, with retail prices ranging from about HK$50 to HK$305.
The results showed that all models had satisfactory skin hydrating effects with continuous use, as half of the models increased the moisture content of foot skin by an average of over 50 percent after 14 consecutive days of use.
After 28 consecutive days of use, four models even increased the moisture content by an average of over 70 percent.
In terms of chemical safety, none of the models were detected to have the two fragrance substances prohibited under the European Union (EU) Cosmetics Regulation.
However, three models were found to contain fragrance allergens at concentrations that require labeling under European Union regulations, with only one of them listing these in its ingredient list.
Among these, one model was also detected with free formaldehyde, which may trigger allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to the substance.
The Council urges manufacturers to review the amount of fragrance allergens in their products and provide appropriate labeling and to use safer preservatives that do not release free formaldehyde.
