Berkeley, CA – Lipstick and lip gloss may contain metals such as chromium at levels that exceed safety guidelines, according to a new study from the University of California, Berkeley.
Researchers measured the presence of nine metals in a sample of 32 lip products. Lead was found in 24 (75 percent) of the products, although levels were generally low.
However, most products had high levels of titanium and aluminum, and using 10 of the products at an average daily rate would result in chromium exposure that exceeds the acceptable daily intake, the study abstract states.
Researchers recommended additional research on metals in cosmetics and whether the levels meet health standards.
The study was published online May 2 in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives.
