ABSTRACT

This research was carried-out to assess the levels of heavy metals (Hg, As, Cd. Sb and Pb) concentration in selected lipsticks commonly and commercially available in Benin city, Nigeria. Ten (10) different brands of lipstick (5 each) were randomly selected across the four (04) local government areas that made up Benin city. The samples were dried, ground and mixed to form a composite sample of each brand, after which they were digested and analyzed using an Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (ASS). The concentration of Cadmium was determined to be within the range of 0.008-0.095 Mg/kg, Arsenic was within the range of 0.54-<0.005 Mg/kg, Lead ranged from 0.072-0.033 Mg/kg, Mercury ranged within 0.06-<0.005 Mg/kg, and antimony was in the range of 0.02-<0.005 Mg/kg. The concentration obtained, when compared with the permissible limits set by The US-FDA, EU and ASEAN guidelines, we're found to be within the permissible limits set by these regulatory agencies, though a few of the concentration hinged on the borderline. Though the brands tested are seemingly safe for use, there is the risk of bioaccumulation of the Metals as a result of continuous and prolonged exposure, hence fierce measures need to adopted by manufacturers to ensure good manufacturing practice and completely eliminate the presence of metals in lipsticks, also regulatory agencies need to create a system for strict monitoring of Cosmetic products, as well as set and enforce strict rules that ensures the circulation of safe cosmetic products.