DETERMINATION OF THE LEVEL OF SOME HEAVY METALS IN SELECTED COSMETIC PRODUCTS IN BENIN CITY

ABSTRACT

This study aimed to assess the levels of Lead, Cadmium, Nickel, and Iron in skin lightening cosmetics available in Benin City. A purposive non-probability sampling design was employed to collect samples of skin lightening cosmetics, which were then analyzed using Flame Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy. The Nickel levels ranged from 6.0 to 16.5 mg/kg in body and facial creams and from 13.0 to 16.5 mg/kg in soap samples, with an average concentration of 12.72 mg/kg. Cadmium was detected in only one cream at a concentration of 0.5 mg/kg, resulting in an average concentration of 0.056 mg/kg. Lead was found in only two facial creams at a concentration of 5.0 mg/kg each, leading to an average concentration of 1.111 mg/kg. Notably, Iron concentrations were significantly higher than other heavy metals, ranging from 45 to 140 mg/kg in body creams and soaps and from 15 to 40 mg/kg in facial creams, with an average concentration of 60.556 mg/kg. Overall, the mean levels of all heavy metals analyzed were below the maximum permissible limits as set by WHO, except for Nickel which slightly exceeded recommended limits. Therefore, the skin lightening cosmetics sold in Benin City, Edo State, were deemed relatively safe in terms of heavy metal concentrations. However, it is important to note that persistent use of these cosmetics may lead to the accumulation of heavy metals in the body, potentially resulting in long-term health effects.