Two products used by Beijing 101 Hair Consultants have been found to contain an undeclared western medicinal ingredient by the Health Sciences Authority (HSA). These two products are labelled to "promote hair growth, reduce hair loss and improve blood circulation".

"Hair Growth Formula D-2653-B" and "Hair Growth Tonic E-0583-D" are regulated as Chinese Proprietary Medicines (CPM) and declared to contain natural herbs. Such products are not allowed to contain western medicinal ingredients or substances controlled under the Poisons Act.

However, one batch of "Hair Growth Formula D-2653-B" (B/N 20091201) and "Hair Growth Tonic E-0583-D" (B/N 20091201) were found to contain the western medicinal ingredient minoxidil during HSA's regular product quality sampling programme. The affected batches of the two products, which were manufactured by Beijing Zhangguang 101 Science & Technology Development Co. Ltd in Beijing, China, have been recalled from Beijing 101 haircare centres.

Minoxidil is classified as a pharmacy-only medicine and is used to treat hair loss. Some of the side effects of using topical preparations containing this medicine include rashes, skin irritation, itching and exacerbation of hair loss in susceptible individuals.

HSA urges those who have purchased the affected batch of the products to stop using them. Those who develop any unexpected reactions to these products are advised to seek medical advice.

"HSA has licensed only two medicinal ingredients that have been proven scientifically to be effective for the treatment of androgenetic hair loss. They are topical minoxidil for use in both men and women and oral finasteride for use in men," says Ms Chan Cheng Leng, Division Director of the Enforcement Branch of HSA. "The efficacy of complementary health products such as CPM and cosmetics is not assessed by HSA. As such, claims that such products can promote hair growth or slow hair loss may not be substantiated by scientific evidence," she added.

HSA also advised consumers to be wary of unrealistic or exaggerated claims on health products, particularly those that employ these gimmicks:

• Promotions using terms such as "scientific breakthrough", "ancient remedy"
• Testimonials from people claiming amazing results
• Promises of no-risk, money-back guarantees
• Promises of an easy fix
• Claims that the product is "all natural" or "non-toxic"