Sept. 18 - Buyers of SK-II cosmetics in which harmful chemicals were found will be able to get a refund, the product maker, Procter and Gamble, said yesterday.

 

It said buyers could get a refund of the purchase price by taking the receipt and the product to an SK-II outlet.

 

Yesterday's statement dropped earlier requirements that people seeking a refund should produce a medical certificate for skin allergy and return at least one-third of the product.

 

"Though the refund terms were softened, SK-II cosmetics will not be withdrawn from stores for the time being," said Wang Jun, SK-II public relations manager.

 

Wang said the company was still working with government departments on whether to recall SK-II products.

 

He insisted SK-II on sale was safe and products in which harmful materials were discovered had not reached the China market.

 

Last week, Guangdong Entry-Exit Inspection and Quarantine Bureau found SK-II cosmetics imported from Japan contained chromium and neodymium, both of which are banned in cosmetics.