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  • Review On Risk Of Toxic Heavy Metals Present In Cosmetic Products
  • 1Department of Pharmaceutical Quality Assurance, Research scholar at ROFEL Shri G. M. Bilakhia College of Pharmacy, Vapi.
    2Department of Pharmaceutical Quality Assurance, Associate Professor at ROFEL Shri G. M. Bilakhia College of Pharmacy, Vapi.
     

Abstract

This review provides a comprehensive insight into the content of different toxic heavy metals found in cosmetic products and their effects at the site of application and on several organs via the dermal route of administration. Cosmetic Products includes Personal care products and facial cosmetics which are commonly used by millions of consumers on a daily basis. The use of cosmetics has been practiced since antiquity as apart from cleansing, cosmetics also beautify and alter the appearance hence making the individual more appealing and attractive. With industrialization and the use of petrochemically-derived substances, the cosmetic formulation changed from one based on natural products to one which is mainly based on petrochemicals. Heavy metals such as lead, Mercury, Cadmium, Arsenic, Nickel, Chromium, Zinc, ion, Copper and manganese are metal detected in various types of cosmetics (colour cosmetics, face and body care products, hair cosmetics, herbal cosmetics, etc) but harmful when they occur in excessive amounts, Metals occurring in cosmetics may undergo retention and act directly in the skin or be absorbed through the skin into the blood, accumulate in the body and exert toxic effects in various organ. Regulatory bodies such as FDA (food and drug administration), NAFDAC (National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control) should be involved in the effective monitoring of the import, production, sale, distribution promotion and processing of cosmetics.

Keywords

Cosmetics, Toxic Heavy Metals, lead, cadmium, nickel, mercury

Introduction

Cosmetics, derived from the Greek word 'kosmtikos,' are utilized by both men and women for enhancing appearance and masking skin imperfections. They encompass a wide range of products including skincare creams, lipsticks, fragrances, hair dyes, and more. Cosmetics are intended to be applied superficially to the body to maintain its health and appearance without altering physiological functions.



       
            Picture1.png
       

    Figure No. 1: Cosmetic Products


Throughout history, cosmetics have been employed for cleansing and enhancing attractiveness. However, their safety evaluation gained significant attention in the latter half of the 20th century, particularly as research highlighted potential risks associated with exposure to various chemicals present in these products.  While cosmetic formulations have evolved from natural ingredients to petrochemical-based compositions due to industrialization, consumer demand has led to a resurgence in the use of natural ingredients. Despite this trend, heavy metals such as lead, mercury, cadmium, arsenic, and nickel, along with other elements like copper, iron, chromium, and cobalt, are still found in various cosmetics. These metals can accumulate in the body through dermal absorption, leading to toxic effects in different organs. The presence of these heavy metals in cosmetics poses health risks, including neurotoxicity, carcinogenicity, and other adverse effects on internal organs. Regulatory bodies have set limits for heavy metal content in cosmetics to mitigate these risks. However, it's crucial for consumers to remain informed and cautious about the products they use on their bodies.

CLASSIFICATION OF COSMETIC:



       
            Picture2.png
       

    


RISKS OF HEAVY METALS IN COSMETICS [6]

The risks associated with heavy metals in cosmetics depend on various factors such as the concentration of metals, synthesis methods, penetration ability, area of skin exposure, duration of exposure, and frequency of use. Additionally, individual factors like health, diet, age, and economic status also influence the risks. There's been a steady rise in cosmetic usage among both genders and across age groups, including children, which increases the risk of exposure to heavy metals. This heightened exposure disregards the accumulation effects of these metals in the body over time. Chronic daily exposure to heavy metals through dermal absorption follows the sequence of mercury > lead > cadmium for adults. This chronic exposure contributes to long-term health problems, including the potential for cancer development, which is influenced by factors such as overuse and penetration ability of the metals in cosmetics. In summary, the risks associated with heavy metals in cosmetics are multifaceted and influenced by various factors, including individual characteristics and usage patterns. Efforts to mitigate these risks require awareness, regulation, and informed consumer choices.

TOXIC HEAVY METALS IN COSMETICS [8]

Heavy metals are elements that are primarily found in the d and p-blocks of the periodic table showing a metallic character and an ability to form salts. Some sources specify that heavy metal should have a high density. Such metals include lead, cadmium, nickel, mercury and arsenic among others.



       
            Picture3.png
       

 


Heavy metals are widely distributed in both living and non-living matrices, posing a concern due to their potential to disrupt physiological functions by replacing beneficial metals. This phenomenon is observed across various organisms, including mammals, humans, insects, and plants. Accumulation of heavy metals in biological systems can occur through the daily or repeated use of cosmetics like face powders, lipsticks, and eye shadows, as these products commonly contain heavy metals.

REGULATIONS FOR COSMETICS [1-4]

In India, cosmetics are regulated under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act of 1940 and Rules of 1945, with labeling declarations enforced by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). BIS establishes standards for cosmetics listed under Schedule ‘S’ of the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules of 1945.  Dyes, colors, and pigments used in skin creams and lipsticks must comply with IS 4707 (Part I), subject to the provisions of Schedule Q of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act and Rules. Other ingredients must adhere to the provisions of IS 4707 (Part 2). Rule 134 of the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules imposes restrictions on cosmetics containing dyes, colors, and pigments not specified by the Bureau of Indian Standards and Schedule Q.

 

As per Indian authorities Synthetic Organic Colors and Natural Organic Colors used in the Cosmetic shall not contain more than:



       
            1.png
       

    


The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel established by Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the USA issued limits are:



       
            2.png
       


The World Health Organization (WHO) set limits for heavy metals are:



       
            3.png
       

    


THE PRESENCE OF TYPICAL HEAVY METALS IN COSMETICS AND THEIR EFFECTS: [11-23]

 

The excerpt provided contains detailed information about various heavy metals commonly found in cosmetic products, including lead, cadmium, copper, cobalt, chromium, nickel, mercury, iron, arsenic, zinc, and manganese. Each heavy metal has its own mechanism of action and potential health effects when absorbed by the body through dermal exposure. Lead, for example, is neurotoxic, nephrotoxic, and hepatotoxic, with detrimental effects on various organs when accumulated in tissues. Cadmium can concentrate in bones, kidneys, and teeth and may lead to skin rashes and epithelial problems.  Copper, essential for various physiological functions, can have harmful effects at high levels, including brain damage, liver cirrhosis, and anaemia. Cobalt, commonly used in cosmetics, can cause allergic contact dermatitis and other adverse health effects. Chromium, both trivalent and hexavalent, can induce skin ulcerations, dermatitis, and allergic reactions. Nickel, present in metal alloys, can activate cellular pathways leading to neoplastic transformation. Mercury, inorganic or organic compounds, can lead to kidney damage, nervous system disorders, and even cancer. Iron, while essential in small amounts, can be toxic in excessive levels, leading to cellular damage and organ dysfunction. Arsenic, a well-known environmental contaminant, can cause hyperpigmentation, keratosis, and various types of cancer. Zinc, although essential, can cause health problems such as skin irritations and gastrointestinal issues at high concentrations. Manganese, necessary for antioxidant enzyme systems, can be fatal in excess, causing developmental abnormalities and nervous system damage. The mechanisms of toxicity for these heavy metals often involve oxidative stress, DNA damage, disruption of cellular functions, and the induction of apoptosis. These metals can accumulate in the body over time, leading to chronic health effects. Dermal exposure is a significant pathway for heavy metal uptake, as cosmetics are often applied directly to the skin.  Understanding the potential health hazards of heavy metals in cosmetics is crucial for consumer safety, especially considering the widespread use of these products. Regulation and monitoring of heavy metal content in cosmetics are essential to mitigate risks to human health.

CONTENTS OF HEAVY METALS IN DIFFERENT COSMETIC PRODUCTS [2]

The content of heavy metals in face products; cosmetics and face care products


       
            4.png
       


The content of heavy metals in body products

 

       

            5.png
       

The content of heavy metals in face and body products


       
            6.png
       


MEASURED LEVELS OF HMS (MG/KG) IN THE COSMETIC PRODUCTS IN DIFFERENT BRAND [7]



       
            7.png
       


CN. Country name, SC. Sample code, bdl. below detection limit

 

Analysis of 30 lotion brands (90 samples) revealed significant variations in heavy metal (HM) levels (p < 0>

Chromium (Cr) levels varied, with some brands below detection limits and max in L20 (0.69 ± 0.02 mg/kg), within the 50 mg/kg safe limit. Iron (Fe) levels ranged from 0.27 to 7.01 mg/kg, within acceptable ranges. Nickel (Ni) levels varied, with max in L17 and lowest in L27, but below detection in L18. Recommended Ni levels for skin contact products are <1>


Measured levels of Heavy Metals in 6 brands of hair dyes


       
            8.png
       


Measured HM levels in 6 hair dye brands (n = 18) showed significant Cd variation. D6 had the highest Cd (0.17 ± 0.02 mg/kg), differing significantly from others. Cr was highest in D5, Fe in D5, Ni in D6, and Pb in D5 and D4. D6 had the lowest Pb (0.40 ± 0.11 mg/kg), significantly different from others.


Measured levels of Heavy metals in 9 brands of Foundations

 


       
            9.png
       


Nine foundation brands (n = 27) showed Cd levels ranging from 0.06 to 0.16 mg/kg. F9 had the highest Cr (0.30 ± 0.02 mg/kg), while Fe ranged widely. Ni varied from 4.79 to 6.34 mg/kg, and Pb from 1.94 ± 0.16 to 3.95 ± 0.15 mg/kg.

 

Measured levels of Heavy metals in 6 brands of Lipsticks


       
            10.png
       


In 18 lipstick brands, heavy metal concentrations varied significantly (p < 0>


Measured levels of Heavy metals in 6 brands of Sunblock
       
       
            11.png
       

    


In 18 sunblock samples, Cr, Fe, and Cd levels varied insignificantly (p < 0>


 


       
            13.png
       

    


Sunblock creams exhibited the highest average concentrations of Cr, Ni, and Pb. Lipsticks and hair dyes followed in Pb content. Foundations had dominant Fe levels, while lotions showed the highest Pb concentration.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

  1. Implement mass awareness programs on lead and cadmium toxicity, especially for vulnerable groups like children and pregnant women.
  2. Regulatory bodies like FDA, NAFDAC, and SON should monitor cosmetics' import, production, and distribution.
  3. Enforce quality control standards to limit lead content in cosmetics, ensuring product standardization.
  4. Mandate clear labeling of heavy metal content on packaging for informed consumer decisions.
  5. Require producers to include cautionary notices about toxic ingredient levels in cosmetics.
  6. Establish an independent monitoring agency to test and publicly report heavy metal levels in cosmetic products regularly.

CONCLUSION:

Daily use of cosmetics containing harmful heavy metals like lead, mercury, cadmium, and others poses health risks. Sunblocks, followed by lipsticks, whitening creams, foundations, hair dyes, and lotions, have high heavy metal concentrations. Nickel exposure may cause skin allergies, while lead exposure leads to serious health effects including cellular damage and carcinogenicity. Sunblocks showed highest average concentrations of Cr, Ni, and Pb, while lipsticks and lotions were dominant in Fe and Cd, respectively.

REFERENCES

  1. Sahu R, Saxena P, Johnson S. “Heavy Metals in Cosmetics.” Centre for Science and Environment,2014
  2. Attard T and Everaldo E. “Heavy Metals in Cosmetics.” Environmental Impact and Remediation of Heavy Metals 2022.
  3. Fitoussi, Richard, et al. "Human skin responses to environmental pollutants: A review of current scientific models." Environmental Pollution (306) 2022, 119316.
  4. Dayel O, Hefne J, Ajyan T. “Human Exposure to Heavy Metals from Cosmetics.” Orient J Chem (1) 2011,27.
  5. Mohiuddin, Kader A. "Heavy metals in cosmetics: the notorious daredevils and burning health issues." Am. J. Biomed. Sci. Res (5) 2019, 333-337.
  6. Mahmood H, Shehab I, Khalil A. “Analytical Detection of Heavy Metals in Cosmetic.” International Journal of Applied Sciences and Technology, 2022, 2717-8234.
  7. Arshad H, Mehmood HZ, Hussain Shah M, Arshad Mehmood Abbasi. “Evaluation of heavy metals in cosmetic products and their health risk assessment.” Saudi Pharmaceutical Journal, 2020,779–790.
  8. Ullah H, Aslam S, Mustafa  G, Waseem A, Betania M, Gul Z, Alvi MU, Anwar S, Muhammad Sabir, Abdul Hamid & Muhammad Ibrahim. “Potential toxicity of heavy metals in cosmetics: fake or fact: a review.” International Journal of Environmental Analytical, 2023,221740.
  9. Khan AD, Alam MN. “Cosmetics And Their Associated Adverse Effects: A Review.” Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research (JAPSR), (2) 2019, 1-6.
  10. Safavi S, Najarian R, Rasouli-Azad M, Masoumzadeh S, Ghaderi A, Eghtesadi R. “A narrative review of heavy metals in cosmetics; health risks.” International Journal of Pharmaceutical Research, (11) 2019.
  11. Witkowska D, S?owik J, Chilicka K. Heavy Metals and Human Health: Possible Exposure Pathways and the Competition for Protein Binding Sites. Molecules (26) 2021, 6060.
  12. Nourmoradi H, et al. "Assessment of lead and cadmium levels in frequently used cosmetic products in Iran." Journal of environmental and public health, 2013.
  13. Rahimzadeh, Mehrdad Rafati, et al. "Cadmium toxicity and treatment: An update." Caspian journal of internal medicine (8.3) 2017,135.
  14. Radwan, Ahmed, Islam M. El-Sewify, and Hassan Mohamed El-Said Azzazy. "Monitoring of Cobalt and Cadmium in Daily Cosmetics Using Powder and Paper Optical Chemosensors." ACS omega, (7.18) 2022, 15739-15750.
  15. Wilbur S, Abadin H, Fay M, et al. Toxicological Profile for Chromium. Atlanta (GA): Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (US), 2012.
  16. Jumina, Jumina, and Harizal Harizal. ‘Dermatologic Toxicities and Biological Activities of Chromium’. Trace Metals in the Environment - New Approaches and Recent Advances, IntechOpen, 2021.
  17. Britannica T. Editors of Encyclopaedia. "nickel." Encyclopedia Britannica, 2023. https://www.britannica.com/science/nickel-chemical-element.
  18. Arita A, Costa M. Epigenetics in metal carcinogenesis: nickel, arsenic, chromium and cadmium. Metallomics. 2009.
  19. Basic information about Mercury. October 2023, https://www.epa.gov/mercury/basic-information-about-mercury.
  20. Abbas HH, Sakakibara M, Sera K. Nurgahayu; Andayanie, E. “Mercury Exposure and Health Problems of the Students Using Skin-Lightening Cosmetic Products in Makassar.” South Sulawesi, Indonesia. Cosmetics 2020, 7, 58.
  21. Lansdown ABG. “Iron: a cosmetic constituent but an essentialnutrient for healthy skin.” International Journal of Cosmetic Science,2001, 129-137.
  22. Saidalavi R, Hashim A, Kumar KB, Pramod LK, Adake P. Analysis of lead and arsenic in cosmetics and assessment of student’s awareness about cosmetic toxicity. Int J Basic Clin Pharmacol 2017.
  23. Zinc as an active substance in cosmetics. October 2023, https://www.products.pcc.eu/en/blog/zinc-as-an-active-substance-in-cosmetics/.

Reference

  1. Sahu R, Saxena P, Johnson S. “Heavy Metals in Cosmetics.” Centre for Science and Environment,2014
  2. Attard T and Everaldo E. “Heavy Metals in Cosmetics.” Environmental Impact and Remediation of Heavy Metals 2022.
  3. Fitoussi, Richard, et al. "Human skin responses to environmental pollutants: A review of current scientific models." Environmental Pollution (306) 2022, 119316.
  4. Dayel O, Hefne J, Ajyan T. “Human Exposure to Heavy Metals from Cosmetics.” Orient J Chem (1) 2011,27.
  5. Mohiuddin, Kader A. "Heavy metals in cosmetics: the notorious daredevils and burning health issues." Am. J. Biomed. Sci. Res (5) 2019, 333-337.
  6. Mahmood H, Shehab I, Khalil A. “Analytical Detection of Heavy Metals in Cosmetic.” International Journal of Applied Sciences and Technology, 2022, 2717-8234.
  7. Arshad H, Mehmood HZ, Hussain Shah M, Arshad Mehmood Abbasi. “Evaluation of heavy metals in cosmetic products and their health risk assessment.” Saudi Pharmaceutical Journal, 2020,779–790.
  8. Ullah H, Aslam S, Mustafa  G, Waseem A, Betania M, Gul Z, Alvi MU, Anwar S, Muhammad Sabir, Abdul Hamid & Muhammad Ibrahim. “Potential toxicity of heavy metals in cosmetics: fake or fact: a review.” International Journal of Environmental Analytical, 2023,221740.
  9. Khan AD, Alam MN. “Cosmetics And Their Associated Adverse Effects: A Review.” Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research (JAPSR), (2) 2019, 1-6.
  10. Safavi S, Najarian R, Rasouli-Azad M, Masoumzadeh S, Ghaderi A, Eghtesadi R. “A narrative review of heavy metals in cosmetics; health risks.” International Journal of Pharmaceutical Research, (11) 2019.
  11. Witkowska D, S?owik J, Chilicka K. Heavy Metals and Human Health: Possible Exposure Pathways and the Competition for Protein Binding Sites. Molecules (26) 2021, 6060.
  12. Nourmoradi H, et al. "Assessment of lead and cadmium levels in frequently used cosmetic products in Iran." Journal of environmental and public health, 2013.
  13. Rahimzadeh, Mehrdad Rafati, et al. "Cadmium toxicity and treatment: An update." Caspian journal of internal medicine (8.3) 2017,135.
  14. Radwan, Ahmed, Islam M. El-Sewify, and Hassan Mohamed El-Said Azzazy. "Monitoring of Cobalt and Cadmium in Daily Cosmetics Using Powder and Paper Optical Chemosensors." ACS omega, (7.18) 2022, 15739-15750.
  15. Wilbur S, Abadin H, Fay M, et al. Toxicological Profile for Chromium. Atlanta (GA): Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (US), 2012.
  16. Jumina, Jumina, and Harizal Harizal. ‘Dermatologic Toxicities and Biological Activities of Chromium’. Trace Metals in the Environment - New Approaches and Recent Advances, IntechOpen, 2021.
  17. Britannica T. Editors of Encyclopaedia. "nickel." Encyclopedia Britannica, 2023. https://www.britannica.com/science/nickel-chemical-element.
  18. Arita A, Costa M. Epigenetics in metal carcinogenesis: nickel, arsenic, chromium and cadmium. Metallomics. 2009.
  19. Basic information about Mercury. October 2023, https://www.epa.gov/mercury/basic-information-about-mercury.
  20. Abbas HH, Sakakibara M, Sera K. Nurgahayu; Andayanie, E. “Mercury Exposure and Health Problems of the Students Using Skin-Lightening Cosmetic Products in Makassar.” South Sulawesi, Indonesia. Cosmetics 2020, 7, 58.
  21. Lansdown ABG. “Iron: a cosmetic constituent but an essentialnutrient for healthy skin.” International Journal of Cosmetic Science,2001, 129-137.
  22. Saidalavi R, Hashim A, Kumar KB, Pramod LK, Adake P. Analysis of lead and arsenic in cosmetics and assessment of student’s awareness about cosmetic toxicity. Int J Basic Clin Pharmacol 2017.
  23. Zinc as an active substance in cosmetics. October 2023, https://www.products.pcc.eu/en/blog/zinc-as-an-active-substance-in-cosmetics/.

Photo
Aishwarya Parmar
Corresponding author

Department of Pharmaceutical Quality Assurance, Research scholar at ROFEL Shri G. M. Bilakhia College of Pharmacy, Vapi.

Photo
Alisha Patel
Co-author

Associate Professor Department of Pharmaceutical Quality Assurance, Associate Professor at ROFEL Shri G. M. Bilakhia College of Pharmacy, Vapi.

Aishwarya Parmar, Alisha Patel, Review On Risk Of Toxic Heavy Metals Present In Cosmetic Products, Int. J. of Pharm. Sci., 2024, Vol 2, Issue 4, 277-28. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10931324

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