Consumers Awareness and Preception of Heavy Metal Contamination in Lipstick and Associated Health Risk

Definition of lipstick:

Lipsticks is the most widely used cosmetic item by the women to give an attractive colour and appearance to the lips. Lipsticks can change the apparent facial characteristics of the woman. These are usually manufactured as moulded sticks and consist of colouring pigments dissolved or dispersed in a fatty base consisting of a suitable blend of oils, fats and waxes suitably perfumed Cosmetics are widely used across the globe, with lip products being among the most popular. Concerns about heavy metal contamination in lipsticks have grown due to their potential toxic effects.This paper aims to review the extent of heavy metal presence in lipsticks and the implications for consumer health. Heavy metals in cosmetics may seem like a small proportion.[1]

Fig 1: Lipstick

of sources that threaten human health in comparison to water, food or air. However their health toxicities  should not be discounted as cosmetics are worn for a prolonged period of time and are often applied over thin and sensitive areas of the skin such as the lips and  contours. Upon application over the skin and absorption into the body heavy metals are known to bio-accumulate leading to toxic levels. The evaluations of potential health risk with respect to the daily consumption of lipstick for adult women are based on some insight into heavy metal content in lipsticks and serve as a basis for comparison to the standard of the Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) under the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA). Up until now there has been no comprehensive research on the potential health risk of ingestion of heavy metals in lipstick. The objectives of this study were to determine the selected heavy metals concentration in lipsticks of different price ranges in the Malaysian market and evaluate the possibility of potential health risk due to daily ingestion of heavy metals in lipsticks among lipstick consumers.[2]  Heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, mercury and arsenic are environmental pollutants that can pose significant health risks. These metals can enter cosmetic products including lipsticks through various sources  such as raw materials  manufacturing processes and environmental contamination. The use of lipsticks is widespread with consumers applying these products daily, raising concerns about potential exposure to harmful substances. Research indicates that heavy metals can accumulate in the body over time leading to various health issues including neurological damage, developmental problems and increased cancer risk. For lipstick consumers particularly vulnerable populations like children and pregnant women the risks associated with heavy metal exposure are of particular concern.Several studies have identified the presence of heavy metals in lipsticks highlighting the need for stringent regulatory measures and consumer awareness. This paper aims to explore the sources of heavy metal contamination in lipsticks the health risks associated with their use and the importance of regulatory oversight to ensure consumer safety.[3]

The high content levels of heavy metals in cosmetics have significant implications as these metals can penetrate the skin and be systemically absorbed. Excessive exposure to metals that impure some cosmetic products can lead to accumulation in the body and dysfunctions in vital organs. Most of the countries have banned the excessive use of metals as an active ingredient in cosmetic products and have provided permissible limits that should not be exceeded however metal impurities indeed still occur. The adsorption of heavy metals to the skin may increase due to the frequent use of cosmetics unintentional swallowing of lipstick or sweating skin covered with cosmetics. Therefore this study aims to determine the heavy metal concentrations present in various cosmetic products that were selected from different brands (qualities) and available in the Saudi Market also to analyze and compare the determined HM values relative to the reported permissible levels according to European Union (EU), World Health Organization (WHO), Canada, Germany, United States Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) and Saudi Food and Drug Administration (SFDA) Standards.[4] Human health in comparison to water, food or air. However their health toxicities should not be discounted as cosmetics are worn for a prolonged period of time and are often applied over thin and sensitive areas of the skin such as the lips and eye contours. Upon application over the skin and absorption into the body heavy metals are known to bio-accumulate leading to toxic levels. The evaluations of potential health risk with respect to the daily consumption of lipstick for adult women are based on some insight into heavy metal content in lipsticks and serve as a basis for comparison to the standard of the Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) under the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA). Up until now, there has been no comprehensive research on the potential health risk of ingestion of heavy metals in lipstick.[5]

HEAVY METALS IN LIPSTICK AND THEIR TYPES :

• Types of Heavy Metals Commonly Found in Lipstick:

1. Lead: Often found in trace amounts, lead can accumulate in the body and is linked to neurological issues and developmental problems. Lead has a severe toxicological profile, it affects neurological, cardiological, and renal functions, since it is widely distributed throughout the body and affects every cell. All cosmetics contain lead below 4 PPM, which is consistent with the guidelines of SFDA, USFDA, and Canada. However, only one high and few low-quality products exceeded the German limit Lead is a potential impurity in many color cosmetics, including lipstick. Lead is a well-known and proven neurotoxin that has been linked to learning, language and behavioral problems.Because of this, lead has been eliminated from gasoline and paint in the United States, which has resulted in considerably reduced exposures in the past several decades. Lead has been linked to reduced fertility in both men  and women, hormonal changes and menstrual irregularities. Pregnant women are especially vulnerable because lead crosses the placenta and may enter the fetal brain, and has also been linked to miscarriage. Pre-adolescents are also at risk as lead has been linked to a delay in the onset of puberty in girls, and the development of testes in boys.[6]
2. Cadmium: Known for its carcinogenic properties, cadmium exposure can lead to kidney damage and bone fragility. Cd has been used as natural color in cosmetics; however, it may possess serious risks to human health such as kidney stones, pneumonitis, and loss of bone density. Our results showed that all the samples tested were free of Cd, which fit the limits of all international standards .cadmium  has been used as natural color in cosmetics; however, it may possess serious risks to human health such as kidney stones, pneumonitis, and loss of bone density. Our results showed that all the samples tested were free of Cd, which fit the limits of all international standards. The highest concentration of 4.0mg/kg was obtained In Maybelline which is also a local formulation where as the lowest concentration of 0.25 mg/kg was found in sample Personi-308. Although the presence of cadmium in the samples was in less amount but the slow release of cadmium with low amount may also cause harmful effects to the human body. The presence of cadmium has also reported in various lipsticks it does not have to be present in abundance in products to produce hypertension. The small amount of cadmium is not safe. It targets blood vessel and heart tissue, as well as, the kidneys, lungs and brain and results in heart disease, hypertension, liver damage, suppressed immune system and other nasty symptoms. Cadmium binds to epidermal keratin when applied topically, thus explaining the limited dermal absorption observed in vitro. However, significant dermal exposure, as could occur in an occupational setting, can cause irritant dermatitis.[6][7]
3. Mercury: While less common, mercury can cause serious neurological and renal issues.Mercury is linked to nervous system toxicity, as well as reproductive, immune and respiratory toxicity, and is a recognized environmental health concern by numerous national and international government bodies. A 2013 study suggested mercury may also disrupt thyroid hormones. Mercury is found in thimerosal, which is a mercury-based preservative. Mercury is particularly hazardous during fetal development and is readily absorbed by the skin. Neither mercury nor thimerosal is common as a direct ingredient or impurity, but the high toxicity of this metal means that the presence of mercury in any cosmetics is a concern. In 2013 the United States ratified the Minamata Convention, which will curb mercury emitted from coal-fired power plants and household appliances, but fails to restrict the metal in mascara.[7]
4. Arsenic: Associated with various cancers and skin lesions, arsenic is particularly dangerous in cosmetic products. Oral and inhalation exposure to arsenic can cause serious internal effects such as altered myocardial depolarization and cardiac arrhythmia.All the tested samples contained arsenic in an amount lower than the standards of SFDA, USFDA, and Canada. In addition, most of the low-quality cosmetics were below the German limit (0.5 PPM). The WHO recommends that arsenic should not exceed 0.01 PPM as a food additive. In cosmetics, the USFDA, SFDA, and Canada have allowed a higher limit.[6]
5. Nickel: Can cause allergic reactions and dermatitis in sensitive individuals. One of the harmful adverse effects of nickel is allergic reactions that primarily affect skin rash at the reaction site. Ni was present in most of the samples with a relatively high amount, only two samples of the high and low classes exceeded the German limit (10 PPM), while all products of medium class did not exceed that threshold.One of the harmful adverse effects of nickel is allergic reactions that primarily affect skin rash at the reaction site. Ni was present in most of the samples with a relatively high amount, only two samples of the high and low classes exceeded the German limit (10 PPM), while all products of medium class did not exceed that threshold. Nickel is one of the metal impurities which inevitably occurs in several natural ingredients used in cosmetic products. Most of the nickel salts are green, hence its possible use also as colorant. However, nickel is regarded as a contact allergen which may incite dermal sensitization, allergies  and dermatitis, because of direct and often long-lasting exposure. It has been discovered that people have been diagnosed with Ni allergy as it is included in topical cosmetic products and jewelry. Nickel can also cause harm to the respiratory system which eventually leads to nasal and lung cancer.[7] [8]

SOURCES OF CONTAMINATION:RAW MATERIALS USED IN LIPSTICK:

Contaminants may originate from natural minerals used in pigments:

1. EXPERIMENT WORK:

Data collection form: This data collection form is designed to gather information on consumers awareness and perceptions regarding heavy metal contamination in lipsticks It explores knowledge levels and concerns about potential health risks. The responses will help assess public understanding and guide awareness initiatives.

7.RESULT AND DISCUSSION:

Parameter analysed for this study Are as follows:

1. Age
2. Gender
3. Education level
4. Frequency of lipstick use
5. Preferred type of lipstick
6. Duration of Lipstick Usage
7. Awareness of the potential presence of heavy metals in lipstick
8. Health Concerns Related to Heavy Metal Contamination in Lipstick
9. Commonly Known Heavy Metals Found in Lipstick
10. Checking Lipstick Ingredients for Heavy Metal Content
11. Level of Concern About Health Risks from Heavy Metal Contamination in Lipstick
12.  Decision to Stop Using Lipstick if Found Contaminated with Heavy Metals
13. Sources of Information on Lipstick Ingredients and Safety
14. Consider switching lipstick due to harmful heavy metals

1.AGE GROUP

This pie chart represents the age distribution of respondents in a survey. The majority of participants, 91.7%, fall in the 18–25 age group, shown in red. A smaller portion of respondents are under 18 (blue) and aged 25–50 (orange), while no responses were recorded for the 50+ age group (green). This indicates that the survey primarily engaged young adults. The chart suggests a youth-dominated sample, which could influence perspectives on topics like cosmetics or awareness of heavy metals. Understanding age distribution is crucial for interpreting consumer behavior trends accurately.

Table No 1. Age Group

Fig 1. Age Group

2.GENDER

This pie chart presents the gender distribution of a specific group. The entire circle is filled with blue, indicating that 100% of the participants identified as female. The chart includes a legend with categories: Female (blue), Male (red), Other (orange), and Prefer not to say (green). However, only the Female category is represented in the data. There are no responses recorded under Male, Other, or Prefer not to say. This suggests a complete gender homogeneity in the group surveyed. The chart visually reinforces the total dominance of a single category with no segmentation.

Table No 2. Gender

Fig 2. Gender

3.EDUCATION LEVEL

The pie chart illustrates the educational qualifications of a group of individuals, categorized into Highschool, Graduation, and No schooling. The majority of individuals, representing 91.4%, have completed graduation, which is shown in red. A smaller segment, 8.6%, have completed only high school, indicated in blue. Interestingly, there is no representation for individuals with no schooling, as the yellow section is absent from the chart. This suggests a relatively well-educated group, with all participants having at least a high school education and the vast majority being graduates.

Table No 3. Education level

Fig 3. Education level

4.FREQUENCY OF LIPSTICK USE:

The pie chart illustrates the frequency of lipstick use among 107 respondents. A majority of participants (65.4%) reported using lipstick occasionally (orange). 20.6% use it a few times a week (red), while 9.3% wear it daily (blue). A small portion, represented in green, indicates they never use lipstick. This data highlights that while regular use exists, most consumers apply lipstick only on an occasional basis, which may influence their level of concern or awareness about potential heavy metal content.

Table No 4. Frequency of lipstick use

Fig 4. Frequency of  lipstick use

5.PREFERRED TYPE OF LIPSTICK

The pie chart shown represents responses from 106 participants. The majority of respondents (46.2%) prefer Matte lipstick, indicated in blue. This is followed by Creamy lipstick (24.5%, red), Liquid lipstick (15.1%, green), and Glossy lipstick (14.2%, orange). The data indicates that matte finishes are the most popular among consumers, possibly due to their long-lasting wear and bold appearance, while glossy and liquid types are less favored. This information could be useful for cosmetic brands targeting customer preferences.

Table No 5. Preferred type of lipstick

Fig 5. Preferred type of lipstick

6.DURATION OF LIPSTICK USAGE:

This chart shows how long respondents have been using lipstick. Out of 107 responses, 36.4% have used it for 1–3 years, while 35.5% have used it for less than a year. About 24.3% have been using lipstick for more than 3 years. A small portion indicated they don’t use lipstick at all. This suggests that the majority of users are relatively new to lipstick use, with a combined 71.9% using it for 3 years or less. This data can help brands target newer users with beginner-friendly products and education on safety.

Table No 6. Duration of lipstick usage

Fig 6. Duration of lipstick usage

7. AWARENESS OF THE POTENTIAL PRESENCE OF HEAVY METAL IN LIPSTICK:

The pie chart represents responses to the question: “Are you aware of the potential presence of heavy metals in lipstick?” A total of 106 participants responded. The results show an even split in awareness—50% of respondents indicated that they are aware (blue), while the remaining 50% are not aware (red). This indicates a significant gap in consumer awareness, highlighting the need for more public education on the potential health risks associated with cosmetic products like lipstick.

Table No 7. Awareness of the potential presence of heavy metals in lipstick

Fig 7.Awareness of the potential presence of heavy metals in lipstick

8.HEALTH CONCERND RELATED TO HEAVY METAL CONTAMINATION IN LIPSTICK:

This chart reveals public perception of heavy metal contamination in lipstick. Among 106 respondents, 54.7% believe it poses serious long-term health risks. About 34% think it’s somewhat harmful, but only with excessive use. Meanwhile, 11.3% feel the contamination levels are usually too low to cause harm. The data suggests that a majority of users are concerned about potential health effects, indicating a need for better regulation, awareness, and transparency from cosmetic brands.

Table No 8. Health concern related to heavy metal contamination in lipstick

Fig 8. Health concern related to heavy metal contamination in lipstick

9.COMMONLY KNOWN HEAVY METALS FOUND IN LIPSTICK:

This chart highlights awareness of heavy metals commonly found in lipstick. Among the 107 respondents, 50.5% identified lead as a common contaminant. Cadmium and mercury were each mentioned by 17.8%, while 14% recognized arsenic. These results suggest that lead is the most well-known heavy metal associated with lipstick. However, awareness of other toxic metals like mercury and cadmium is comparatively low, indicating a need for broader consumer education on all potential contaminants in cosmetic products.

Table No 9. Commonly known heavy metals found in lipstick

Fig 9.  Commonly known heavy metals found in lipstick

10.CHEKING LIPSTICK INGREDIENTS FOR HEAVY METAL CONTENT

The chart presents responses to the question: “Have you ever checked the ingredients of your lipstick for heavy metals?” from a total of 107 participants. The largest segment, 45.8%, reported that they always check the ingredients. Meanwhile, 25.2% said they check only sometimes out of curiosity. About 23.4% admitted they have never checked for heavy metals, and 5.6% responded that they don’t know. This indicates a moderate level of awareness among consumers, with nearly half actively checking for harmful substances. However, a significant portion either checks occasionally or not at all. The data highlights the need for increased consumer education about potential risks from cosmetic products.

Table No 10. Checking lipstick ingredients for heavy metal content

Fig 10. Checking Lipstick Ingredients for Heavy Metal Content

11.LEVEL OF CONCERN ABOUT HEALTH RISKS FROM HEAVY METAL CONTAMINATION IN LIPSTICK

The pie chart reflects responses to the question: “How concerned are you about the potential health risks associated with heavy metal contamination in lipstick?” from 104 participants. The majority, 37.5%, indicated they are moderately concerned, followed closely by 36.5% who are slightly concerned. Meanwhile, 16.3% of respondents said they are extremely concerned. A smaller proportion, 9.6%, reported no concern at all. This data suggests that while most respondents have at least some level of concern, only a minority consider the issue extremely serious. It highlights a general awareness of the risks, though the intensity of concern varies. Such insights can guide awareness campaigns on cosmetic safety.

Table No 11. Level of concern about health risks from heavy metal contamination in lipstick

Fig 11. Level of Concern About Health Risks from heavy metal contamination in lipstick

12.DECISION TO STOP USING LIPSTICK IF FOUND CONTAMINATION WITH HEAVY METALS

The pie chart illustrates the responses to the question: “Would you stop using lipstick if you found out it contained high levels of heavy metals?” with 107 participants. Nearly half of the respondents, 48.6%, answered “Yes,” indicating they would stop using such products. Around 36.4% selected “Maybe,” showing uncertainty or conditional concern. Only 15% stated they would not stop using the lipstick despite knowing about heavy metal contamination. This data reflects a strong inclination toward health consciousness, as most respondents are either willing to take preventive action or are open to considering it. It underscores the importance of transparency and safety in cosmetic products.

Table No 12. Decision to stop using lipstick if Found Contaminated with Heavy Metal

Fig 12. Decision to Stop Using Lipstick if Found Contaminated with Heavy Metals

13.SOURCES OF INFORMATION ON LIPSTICK INGREDIENTS AND SAFETY:

The chart presents consumer responses on sources of information about lipstick ingredients and safety. Among the 107 respondents, the majority (35.5%) rely on online research for such information. Social media is the second most popular source, cited by 27.1% of participants. Friends or family account for 19.6% of responses, suggesting a significant influence of personal networks. Meanwhile, 17.8% of respondents look at product packaging or labels for ingredient and safety information. This data shows a clear preference for digital sources over traditional or physical information channels. It indicates a growing trend of consumers turning to the internet for beauty product awareness. The relatively lower reliance on packaging suggests potential for brands to improve label communication.

Fig 13. Sources of information on lipstick ingredients and safety

14.CONSIDER SWITCHING LIPSTICK DUE TO HARMFUL HEAVY METALS:

The chart presents the responses to a survey question regarding consumer behavior when informed that a particular lipstick contains harmful levels of heavy metals. Out of 107 respondents, a significant majority (65.1%) indicated that they would definitely consider switching to a safer alternative. Additionally, 19.8% responded with Yes probably, showing moderate concern. Meanwhile, 8.5% chose No, suggesting they wouldn’t change their product choice, and 6.6% selected May be, indicating uncertainty. Overall, the data reflects high consumer awareness and willingness to make safer choices, with a combined 84.9% leaning toward switching. This highlights the importance of safety in cosmetic product selection.

Table No14. Consider switching lipstick due to harmful heavy metals