Abstract

Background: A safety assessment of cosmetic is necessary for evaluating the health risks associated with the use of these products. Aims and Objectives: The aim of this study is to assess the cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) concentrations in different types of cosmetics products consumed in Iran.
Materials and Methods: This study was design to evaluate the content of Cd and (Pb) in 11 different types of cosmetics including lipstick, nail polish, eyeliner, eye pencil, eyeshadow, makeup cleaner, mascara, pancake, tattoo, hair dye, and hair gel belonging to German, French, Turkish, Chinese, and Iranian brands, from September 2016 to March 2017. The content of Cd and Pb were measured with a polarograph following nitric acid digestion.
Results: Out of 264 sample, the mean and standard error level of Cd and Pb were 3.69 ± 0.72 and 9.07 ± 1.126 μg/g, respectively. The average content of Pb in lipstick, tattoo, and nail polish was higher than the permitted limit of 10 μg/g. The mean content of Cd was also at level above the permitted limit of 3 μg/g for eye pencil, lipstick, and tattoo. The statistical analysis showed a significant difference between Cd (P = 0.038) and Pb (P = 0.013) among different types of the cosmetics. Conclusion: Results indicated that several samples contain high levels of Cd and Pb that can be associated with health effects at sufficiently exposures. Regular monitoring of toxic metals, along with increased public awareness is necessary to provide a level of protection for women, especially for pregnant and lactating women.