Poisoned eyeliner joins 'Big Eye'

FDA officials were launching nationwide random searches for such dangerous cosmetics, and their manufacturers and distributors faced up to one year in jail and/or a Bt60,000 fine if caught, said FDA chief Pipat Yingseri.

Sold roadside

 The move comes after Culture Watch Office director Ladda Tangsupachai claimed the eyeliners were being sold at markets and roadside stalls.

Since it is not a cosmetic that requires FDA approval for manufacture or import, random searches were the best way to protect consumers, said Pipat. He added that the public should be vigilant too, and call the hotline number 1556 if they came across suspicious products.

Wearing heavy eyeliner is a trend that's spread from South Korea and Japan to fashion-conscious Thai youngsters, who were earlier warned about another craze - so-called "Big Eye" contact lenses that can cause blindeness.