Action Research on Mercury and Hydroquinone in Artisanal Cosmetics: Assessing Environmental Health Risks in Guinea-Bissau

This participatory action research study addresses the significant public health threat posed by artisanal skin-lightening cosmetics containing mercury and hydroquinone in Guinea-Bissau. Despite international regulations, these hazardous substances remain prevalent in informal markets, posing direct toxicological risks to users and contributing to broader environmental contamination. The research objective was to collaboratively assess exposure pathways and co-develop community-led mitigation strategies. Employing a multi-method approach from 2023 to 2025, the methodology integrated rigorous chemical analysis via Cold Vapour Atomic Absorption Spectrometry and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography of 150 product samples from Bissau’s markets with an epidemiological survey (n=300) and structured focus group discussions involving vendors, users, and traditional practitioners. Laboratory analysis revealed that 68% of sampled products contained mercury levels exceeding the 1ppm regulatory limit, with 42% containing hydroquinone above 2%. Survey data, analysed using chi-square tests, indicated a statistically significant correlation between product use and reported dermatological and systemic health symptoms. Through iterative community forums, these findings were critically analysed, leading to the co-design of culturally resonant health promotion materials and the establishment of a vendor advocacy network for safer alternatives. The study concludes that the unregulated trade of these cosmetics constitutes a severe environmental health injustice. Its significance lies in demonstrating a rigorous, participatory model for toxics reduction, emphasising that effective intervention must centre community agency and local knowledge to foster sustainable change within West Africa’s informal economy.