Lipstick raises toxic concerns

New research shows makeup contains sometimes toxic levels of metal

DETROIT – Some women won't leave the house without putting on some lipstick, but should they be double-checking what's inside those pretty pink and
red colors?

Ruth to the Rescue found many woman enjoy the benefits of lipstick.

"There's something old Hollywood, there's something glamorous, there's
just some, um, there's just something about wearing lipstick," said Melanie Martin, of Rochester Hills.

"I wear lipstick a lot because it makes me feel good," said Jeanne Herrmann, of Royal Oak.

While Pam Timreck of Bloomfield Hills added, "I think just for a splash of color I'm used to putting it on. It's my number one go to makeup."

New research leads to new questions on

Now, A new study from the University of California Berkeley's School of Public Health analyzed 32 commonly found lipsticks and lip
glosses.

It found they contain lead cadmium, chromium, aluminum, and five other metals: some at potentially toxic levels. Prior research found lead in lipstick back in 2011, but the Food and Drug Administration said it found levels that pose no safety concerns. The UC study looked at more metals and estimated health risks based on their concentrations and typical use.

One author of the study said this study is telling the Food and Drug Administration to wakeup and pay attention to what's inside makeup like lipstick. The study found that some of the lipsticks could result in excessive exposure to chromium, a carcinogen linked to stomach tumors.

Would that potential risk change the habits of the lipstick lovers that spoke with Ruth to the Rescue?

"I just, I know probably there are some chemicals in it, but just doesn't disturb me enough, that I wouldn't wear it," said Herrmann.

Others says they might be a little more cautious.

"When I purchase a tube of lipstick, which isn't really very often, that I would look for that," said Martin.

Industry reacts with statement on research claims

The Personal Care Products Council put a statement online that said the discovery of trace levels of metals in lip products is not unexpected
given their natural presence in air, soil and water. Very low levels are also found in drinking water and food.

Further it said quote, "Trace amounts of metals in lip products need to be put into context. Food is a primary source for many of these naturally present metals, and exposure from lip products is minimal in comparison." You can see the Council's entire statement here.

Some critics still feel the United States should do more, as there are no set standards for metal in cosmetics. USA Today reports the European Union says cadmium, chromium, and lead are unacceptable ingredients at any level in cosmetic products.

Follow this link to the Food and Drug Administration information about previous lead research.


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