Lipstick is a classic cosmetic product used to brighten your face and smile. However, there could be dangerous contaminants lurking in your lipsticks, such as lead!
Over the years, there have been reports alleging dangerous levels of lead in lipstick. FDA has analyzed hundreds of lipsticks and other cosmetic lip products, such as lip glosses, for lead. We found that levels of lead in these products were from below the detection limit to about 7 ppm. We published the method we developed for analyzing lipstick for leadExternal Link Disclaimer.
FDA has also analyzed hundreds of externally applied cosmetics (cosmetics applied to the skin, such as eye shadows, blushes, shampoos, and body lotions) for lead and other impurities. The levels of lead we found were from below the detection limit to 14 ppm.
Our data show that over 99% of the cosmetic lip products and externally applied cosmetics on the U.S. market contain lead at levels below 10 ppm.
We have issued guidance to industry on limiting lead as an impurity in cosmetic lip products and externally applied cosmetics to a maximum of 10 ppm. This recommended maximum supports the public health goal to limit consumers’ exposure to lead in FDA-regulated products.
Source: FDA