Determination of lead and cadmium contents in lipstick and their potential health risks to consumers

In Ghana, a complete profile of heavy metals in lipstick products is lacking. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the level of some toxic metals in lipstick sold at different markets and shopping malls in Kumasi Metropolis. Twenty lipstick brands were analysed. The lipstick was chemically digested and then analysed for lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) using atomic absorption spectroscopy (model 210 VGP). The concentrations of Pb and Cd in lipsticks ranged from 0.20 ± 0.00 to 36.70 ± 0.26, and 1.83 ± 0.06 to 412.23 ± 0.40 mg kg−1, respectively. The actual Pb concentration measured in 18 lipstick samples was far below the recommended limits of the United State Food and Drug Administration (20 mg kg−1), Ghana Standards Authority (1 mg kg−1) and Health Canada (10 mg kg−1). The Cd concentration in 19 lipsticks was above the Health Canada threshold for impurities, indicating a potential toxicological effect for lipstick users. The hazard quotient for Cd in almost all the lipstick samples, except sample C12 were above 1, indicating adverse non-carcinogenic health risk exposure to Cd via the lipsticks ingestion. Thus, the continuous usage of these brands of lipsticks can pose a high risk of Cd on human health. Therefore, quality control is recommended to check lipstick products imported into the country. Similarly, regular monitoring of other heavy metal containing components and chemicals used in the manufacture of cosmetics products, which may cause health risks to consumers should be ensured.