The state of Minnesota is banning mercury from cosmetics, toiletries and fragrances. The law, enacted January 1, 2008, could result in fines of up to $700 for retailers and $10,000 for manufacturers. Mercury was used in the past to disinfect and preserve but it can accumulate and cause danger to the nervous system. Mercury has basically been banned from cosmetics, except for small amounts in goods used near the eyes, which are sensitive to certain microorganisms that mercury actually fights.