Abstract
This study examined the concentrations of heavy metals, namely lead (Pb) and iron (Fe), in lipsticks, foundations, and face powders to ensure compliance with international safety standards and assess potential health risks. Using atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS), samples were analyzed for heavy metal content and compared to WHO, FDA, and Health Canada guidelines. Results included that lead levels in lipsticks ranged from 0.03 to 6.15 ppm, with one sample exceeding the WHO limit of 0.01 ppm, raising safety concerns. Iron levels were alarmingly high, with a maximum of 2,566 ppm, well above the WHO guideline of 0.3 ppm. Baseline samples consistently showed low levels of lead at 0.03 ppm, but iron concentrations reached 5,735 ppm, indicating significant safety deviations. Lead concentrations in the face powders ranged from 0.03 to 2.14 ppm, with some exceeding the WHO limit, while iron levels averaged 2,613 ppm, well above acceptable limits. The study concluded that high iron levels in these cosmetic products pose health risks, stressing the need for stricter regulatory oversight and quality control in the cosmetics industry