Chemist & Druggist is running a story beginning:
Confusion surrounds the legality of melatonin as an ingredient in health and beauty products in the UK, after Superdrug and Boots were found offering products containing melatonin that the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) insist should not be sold.”
The report refers to a Which investigation. Superdrug are quoted as having told Which:
“Topically applied products that contain melatonin as one of their ingredients are widely available for general sale across the UK.”
Chemist & Druggist also quotes Superdrug as saying:
“Cosmetic products that contain melatonin as one of their ingredients are widely available for general sale across the UK.
“Under UK Cosmetic Regulation, melatonin is not classified as a controlled ingredient provided that its function is strictly cosmetic.
“We are awaiting formal clarification of this cosmetic position from the MHRA and we will take action where necessary in line with MHRA guidance.”
Boots are quoted as saying:
“Cosmetic products that contain melatonin for functions such as antioxidants are permitted for use in the UK.
“To our knowledge melatonin is not banned or restricted for use in cosmetic products and is in line with guidance from cosmetic regulatory bodies.”
Chemist & Druggist quote the MHRA as saying:
“Melatonin is a prescription only medication in the UK and if it was an ingredient in a product, skincare or otherwise, it would be considered a medicine.”