Some Lipsticks Products May Be Dangerous to Health

Lipsticks and glosses may contain potentially troubling levels of metals, according to a preliminary new study.

Some research has raised some concerns over the presence of lead in lipstick, but the new study is the first to suggest that many popular lip products also contain cadmium, chromium, aluminum and other metals -- some at levels that may be harmful.

Researchers looked at eight different lipsticks and 24 lip glosses, bought at drug stores, department stores and chain specialty stores. Glosses and lipsticks are of particular concern because of the potential for ingestion.When used at what researchers called an average rate -- around twice a day -- the estimated intake exceeded acceptable daily levels for those metals, as established in prior public health efforts. In other words, they could pose a potential health risk.

The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, launched in 2004, aims to protect the health of consumers and workers by pushing for regulatory and legislative support for the elimination of dangerous chemicals from cosmetics. In 2007, it released a study that found that more than half of 33 lipstick brands contained lead at levels that are cause for concern.