Heavy Metal Contamination in Lipsticks: Implications for Human Health and Sustainable Alternatives to Metal-based Ingredients
Hafsa Bashir | Environmental researcher
16th February 2024
Keywords: lipsticks; heavy metal contamination; human health, sustainable alternatives
The eternal quest for human beautification has led to a dramatic global growth in the consumption of cosmetic products worldwide [1], among which lipstick is trendy for women [2]. The presence of heavy metals in cosmetics and lipsticks is a matter of great concern for public health [3]. In this article, our researcher, Hafsa Bashir, delves into an exploration of the presence of several heavy metals (lead, cadmium, nickel, chromium, and mercury) in lipsticks, their implications for human health, difficulties in detecting heavy metals in lipsticks, and sustainable alternatives, concluding with recommendations.
How are metal-based lipsticks applied?
Lipsticks are cosmetics mainly used to colorize, moisturize, and improve the overall look of the lips. Combining multiple components, such as emollients, pigments, oils, and waxes, can achieve the desired texture, shade, and shine. Lipsticks’ function is not limited to their visual appeal; in some cultures, they represent the users’ self-confidence, cultural expression, and personality [4]. However, there have been concerns regarding the possibility of heavy metal contamination in lipstick products. This contamination could pose health hazards, especially because users are continuously exposed to high levels of impurities and metals through dermal contact and oral ingestion [5]. Applying lipstick to the lips is a common way to make them appear more attractive and glamorous, but this might expose people to heavy metals in the lipstick itself. Lipsticks have been found to contain heavy metals [6]. Lipstick users are fortunate in that their heavy metal exposure is low, yet their long-term health concerns are noteworthy [7]. Gondal et al.'s 2010 report notes exposure to a miniscule amount of lipsticks through ingestion when consumers eat and drink [1]. A 2007 study conducted by the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics found that an average female user accidentally swallows almost 1.8 kilograms of lipstick over the course of her lifetime [8].
Table 1: Common Heavy Metals in Lipsticks and their Usage [6–8]
Normally, consumers have a limited awareness of the heavy metal contamination that lipsticks can cause, which adds to the concern [6]. Other than usage as a coloring agent, there are a variety of ways in which heavy metals find their way into lipstick products. There is a possibility that impurities in colorants or raw materials used in lipstick formulas could be the source of lead, which has been a frequent worry throughout history. Another heavy metal, cadmium, may occasionally be found as a byproduct of specific pigments that are used for coloring agents. Certain types of chromium, such as chromium oxide greens, which are used as colorants, can potentially contain trace amounts of hazardous chemicals. Mercury can also be found in trace amounts, typically in certain color additives, but it is not used as frequently as other elements [9].
The production of lipstick may trigger contamination at various stages, i.e., when mixing, blending, or packaging, due to inadequate equipment or insufficient quality control methods. Contaminating impurities can be found in different ingredients, such as pigments, oils, waxes, and colorants [10].
Regulatory bodies worldwide establish benchmarks for heavy metal concentrations in cosmetics, including lipsticks, to protect consumer health. In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) oversees cosmetics and issues national guidelines while monitoring products for potential health hazards associated with heavy metal content. The cosmetics regulation of the European Union (EU) prohibits the use of specific heavy metals in cosmetics and establishes maximum concentrations that are considered acceptable. Other nations, including Canada and Japan, have established their own standards and allowable limits pertaining to the presence of heavy metals in cosmetic products [11] [14]. Cosmetics usually have their permissible levels of heavy metals assessed in parts per million (ppm) or micrograms per gram (μg/g) of product. The FDA’s permissible levels for various heavy metals in lipsticks in 2013 were 3 μg/g for arsenic, cadmium, and mercury, 5 μg/g for antimony, 170 μg/g for nickel, chromium, copper, and cobalt, and 20 μg/g for lead [12]. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the permissible levels of lead are 10 μg/g; for cadmium, it's 0.3 μg/g; and for mercury, it's 1 μg/g [13]. Manufacturers are responsible for ensuring that their products meet these standards by conducting rigorous testing to verify compliance and implementing quality control measures throughout the manufacturing process to reduce the presence of heavy metals in lipstick formulations, thereby prioritizing consumer safety [14].
Implications for Human Health
Difficulties in Detecting Heavy Metal Trace Levels
Sensitivity of Equipment: High-tech tools and methods are needed to identify even minute amounts of heavy metals in cosmetics. Even highly sensitive devices may struggle to detect minute amounts precisely, making precise measurements difficult [1].
Complex Formulations: Lipstick formulations contain multiple ingredients, making it difficult to isolate and identify specific sources of heavy metal contamination. Within the complex matrix of cosmetic ingredients, trace amounts can readily go undetected [10].
Sustainable Alternatives
Natural Pigments. Investigating plant-derived pigments, such as beets, turmeric, and berries, presents encouraging alternatives to conventional colorants, including heavy metals in the composition of lipsticks. These organic sources provide not only vibrant colors but also significant health advantages. Nevertheless, a crucial element of their acceptance entails the assessment of color durability and suitability with lipstick compositions. To ensure the durability and excellence of the lipstick product, it is crucial to comprehend how these organic colorants react to different environmental factors and engage with other components [18].
Mineral Pigments. Exploring mineral-derived pigments such as mica, iron oxides, and titanium dioxide offers a chance to substitute toxic heavy metals in lipsticks without compromising color vibrancy. These minerals are readily accessible and may be obtained in an environmentally friendly manner, making them a viable option for those concerned about sustainability. However, it is essential to thoroughly examine their environmental effects and possible health implications. Studying extraction procedures, ethical sourcing techniques, and ecological impact will help make well-informed choices regarding their utilization in cosmetic compositions.
Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide (non-nanoized) impart a matte appearance to lipsticks. In addition, they can be present in sunscreen and, when incorporated into lipstick, can offer UV protection.
Iron oxide (non-nanoized) is a naturally occurring compound found in the ground that serves as a cost-effective and safe pigment. It imparts a vibrant yellow-orange-red hue to lipsticks.
Silica is a mineral that is present in plants and is primarily recognized for its ability to enhance the strength of hair, skin, and nails. In addition, silica serves the purpose of increasing the thickness of lipsticks and providing protection against the sun. Meanwhile, mica reflects light and imparts a sparkly aspect to lipstick. Most lipsticks derived from natural sources contain mica, including those found in the RMS range [19].
Bioactive Substances. The analysis of bioactive chemicals presents an innovative method for creating lipstick formulations that combine both color and possible skincare advantages. Compounds like chlorophyll, carotenoids, and flavonoids not only provide color to lipsticks but also possess antioxidant and moisturizing qualities. Evaluating the effectiveness of these chemicals in producing desired cosmetic and skincare results is essential for establishing their viability as alternatives. Achieving a harmonious combination of intense color and skincare advantages will be crucial in developing lipsticks that meet customer demands for both visual appeal and health benefits.
Evaluation of Feasibility and Effectiveness
Color Replication. An essential part of evaluating the viability of sustainable alternatives in lipstick formulations is doing a comparative examination of the color range that may be achieved using alternative components vs. traditional pigments that contain heavy metals. This entails not only aligning with pre-existing color schemes but also delving into novel hues. The assessment takes into account consumer preferences, which are influenced by cultural trends, seasonal fluctuations, and individual tastes. Comprehending and addressing consumer expectations and acceptability are crucial for the effective incorporation of substitute components in lipstick products [21].?
The stability and longevity of the product. Examining the durability of environmentally friendly substitutes in various storage settings allows producers to ensure the quality and safety of lipstick products while conducting longevity testing, which is crucial to guaranteeing the finished goods’ color intactness and vibrance, thus preserving their appeal. A meticulous testing procedure is thus essential to handle stability-related factors, such as light exposure, temperature changes, and the materials used for packaging, thus offering consumers lipsticks that retain their visual attractiveness over a period of time [21].?
Texture and Application. Testing the texture and application of lipsticks with different components is vital for consumer satisfaction. This entails evaluating the level of applicability, adherence to the lips, and the overall tactile sensation of the product. Consumer input on the wearability of sustainable lipstick formulations offers useful insights into the potential of alternative components to equal or exceed the performance of existing heavy metal-based formulations. Striking a balance between visual appeal and comfort is crucial in order to fulfill consumer expectations [21].
领英推荐
Costs and Scalability. Conducting an economic analysis to compare the sourcing and manufacturing of alternative ingredients with traditional heavy metals is crucial for assessing the viability of widespread adoption. The cost-effectiveness of sustainable alternatives is influenced by factors such as raw material expenses, production efficiency, and market demand. Furthermore, it is imperative to address scalability concerns when it comes to large-scale production in the cosmetics business in order to guarantee the accessibility of environmentally friendly lipsticks to a wide range of consumers [21].
Environmental Impact. It is essential to do life-cycle assessments of natural and sustainable alternatives in order to comprehend their comprehensive environmental impact. This examination should cover the full production process, spanning from the extraction of raw materials to the disposal stage. An analysis of the carbon footprint, water usage, and other environmental issues associated with alternative and traditional ingredients can help the industry adopt more environmentally friendly practices. Effectively communicating these findings will enhance consumers' ability to make well-informed decisions by taking environmental factors into account [21].
Conclusion
The widespread prevalence of heavy metal contamination in lipsticks highlights the critical need for extensive reforms in the cosmetics industry and poses serious risks to human health. The comprehensive examination of toxic heavy metals, such as lead, cadmium, nickel, chromium, and mercury, uncovers potential health hazards that encompass cognitive impairments, reproductive disorders, skin irritations, and elevated susceptibility to cancer. Regulatory authorities globally have a vital function in establishing standards to safeguard consumers while inconsistencies remain. This study emphasizes the importance of doing thorough testing, implementing strict quality control measures, and adhering to acceptable limits for heavy metals in lipstick compositions. Amidst these issues faced by the sector, the investigation of sustainable alternatives arises as a possible resolution.
Recommendations
In order to tackle the intricate problem of heavy metal contamination in lipsticks, a number of suggestions are put forward. First and foremost, in order to protect consumers everywhere, regulatory agencies must harmonize standards globally, guaranteeing consistent rules and enforcement. Cosmetic firms should prioritize transparency in ingredient sourcing and manufacturing procedures and allocate resources toward research and development to investigate and implement sustainable alternatives. It is necessary to enhance consumer awareness programs in order to educate individuals about the potential health hazards linked to high levels of heavy metals in lipsticks, thereby enabling them to make well-informed decisions. Establishing and implementing strong sustainability practices requires crucial collaboration among industry players, regulatory entities, and environmental organizations. Moreover, the establishment of industry-wide benchmarks for sustainable lipstick formulations and ongoing investigation into novel, non-hazardous components are pivotal measures in the pursuit of a more environmentally conscious and secure cosmetic environment.
References
[1] Gondal, M.A., Seddigi, Z.S., Nasr, M.M., & Gondal, B. (2010). Spectroscopic detection of health-hazardous contaminants in lipstick using Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy. The Journal of Hazardous Materials, 175, 726–732.?
[2] Jacob, J. N., & Ebhota, M. I. (2022). Levels of Heavy Metals in Lipsticks Commonly and Commercially Available in Benin City, Nigeria. ChemSearch Journal, 13(1), 143-146.
[3] Al-Saleh, I., & Al-Enazi, S. (2011). Trace metals in lipsticks. Toxicological & Environmental Chemistry, 93, 1149–1165.?
[4] Ezeh, E., Okeke, O., Aniobi, C. C., Ikedinobi, C. S. and Alieze, A. B. (2019). Analysis of heavy metals in different brands of lipsticks sold in Enugu metropolis, Nigeria, and their potential health risks to users. Journal of Chemical, Biological, and Physical Sciences, 9(4), 402-411.
[5] Pinto, E., Paiva, K., Carvalhido, A., & Almeida, A., 2018. Elemental impurities in lipsticks: Results from a survey of the Portuguese and Brazilian markets. Regul. Toxicol. Pharmacol., 95, 307–313.?
[6] Malvandi, H., & Sancholi, F., 2018. Assessments of some metals contamination in lipsticks and their associated health risks to lipstick consumers in Iran. Environ. Monit. Assess., 190, 680–688.?
[7] Zakaria, A., & Ho, Y. Bin, 2015. Heavy metals contamination in lipsticks and their associated health risks to lipstick consumers. Regul. Toxicol. Pharmacol., 73, 191–195.?
[8] The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, 2007. A Poison Kiss: The Problem of Lead in Lipstick https://www.safecosmetics.org/get-the-facts/regulations/us-laws/lead-in-lipstick/?
[9] Khalid, A., Bukhari, I. H., Riaz, M., Rehman, G., Ain, Q. U., Bokhari, T. H., ... & Munir, S. (2013). Determination of lead, cadmium, chromium, and nickel in different brands of lipsticks. International Journal of Biology, Pharmacy and Allied Sciences, 1(2), 263-271.
[10] Moazenzadeh, M., Mazandarany, M.P., Eskandari, M., & Pourmahyabady, R., 2011. Determination of lead concentration in solid and liquid lipsticks available in Iran-Kerman. Med. J. Hormozgan Univ., 16, 241–246.?
[11] Rahman, M., Sarker, N., Banik, R., Habib, M. A., & Sikder, M. T. (2021). Assessment of heavy metals contamination in lipsticks available in Bangladeshi market and associated human health risk. Bangladesh J Environ Res, 12, 62-74.
[12] United States Food and Drug Administration (2013): Food and drugs, chapter II – food and drug administration, department of health and human services. Part 74 – listing of colour additives subject to certification office of cosmetics and colours, Sec. 74. 1306 D&C. Investigation D.C. 400-408
[13] World Health Organization (2010): Standard limits for pollutants in cosmetic products. Public Health and Environment, WHO, Geneva, 540-549
[14] Health Canada, 2012. Guidance on Heavy Metal Impurities in Cosmetics https://www.canada.ca/en/healthcanada/services/consumer-product-safety/reports-publications/industry-professionals/guidanceheavy-metal-impurities-cosmetics.html#a1?
[15] Olalekan, R. M., Adedoyin, O., & Odubo, T. V. (2018). Measures of harm from heavy metal content (Lead and Cadmium) in Women Lipstick and Lipgloss in Yenagoa Metropolis, Bayelsa state, Nigeria. International Journal of Petrochemistry and Research, 2(3), 236-242.
[16] Ouremi, O. I., & Ayodele, O. E. (2014). Lipsticks and nail polishes: potential sources of heavy metal in human body. Int J Pharm Res Allied Sci, 3(4), 45.
[20] Goyal, N., & Jerold, F. (2023). Biocosmetics: technological advances and future outlook. Environmental Science and Pollution Research, 30(10), 25148-25169.
[21]. Martins, A. M., & Marto, J. M. (2023). A sustainable life cycle for cosmetics: From design and development to post-use phase. Sustainable Chemistry and Pharmacy, 35, 101178. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scp.2023.101178