Quantitative Estimation of Lead (Pb) and Cadmium (Cd) Content in Commonly Used Cosmeceuticals Using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

Background: Humans are exposed continuously to a large number of chemicals from various sources and via multiple routes. One of the most common sources is the use of cosmeceuticals like lipsticks and sunscreen which contain significant amount of heavy metals like Lead (Pb) and Cadmium (Cd). Introduction: The present study was undertaken with an objective to investigate the content of heavy metals especially Pb and cadmium Cd from commonly used brands of cosmetic products (lipsticks and sunscreen creams) in India. Methods: Sixty samples of lipsticks (5 colors in 6 brands) and sunscreen creams (3 colors in 10 brands) were chosen for the present investigation, procured from cosmetic shop centre, Moradabad (India). The Pb and Cd concentrations of the formulations were analyzed using atomic absorption spectroscopy. Result: The results indicated that the concentrations of Pb and Cd in the lipstick samples were within the range of 0.12– 4.9 μg/g and 3.48–46.38 μg/g, respectively. In sunscreen creams, the concentration of Pb and Cd were found to be in the range of 0.96–4.50 μg/g and 9.54–22.41 μg/g respectively. The observed concentrations of the heavy metals in the lipsticks samples were lower than that of the sunscreen creams. Conclusion: The significant difference between the average of Pb content in the different brands of the sunscreen creams and the lipsticks was recorded. Therefore, the frequent use of such cosmetics may culminate enhanced absorption of heavy metals, especially Pb and Cd, in the body through absorption of cosmetics over skin surface as well as by swallowing of lipsticks during its application. Pb and Cd as heavy metal may be harmful, if these are present in cosmeceuticals in excess quantity. Therefore, attempts must be made to familiarize the cosmetic users and the public about the harmful consequences of heavy metal present in cosmetics.