Levels of lead metal in selected lipstick brands sold in Kampala cosmetic shops

Abstract

The present study aimed at investigating the presence and determining the concentration of lead in various brands of lipstick sold in the central division of Kampala city.The study used a quantitative study design, where thirty (30) samples were obtained and lead levels investigated using the flame absorption spectroscopy machine. The study results showed lower levels of lead in the 30samples ranging from 0.0567mg/kg to 0.36mg/kg as opposed to previous studies. The study found that the effects of lead can be harmful and irreversible especially for pregnant women and infants‟ brain development and behavior in children. It also has serious health risks in exposed adults including neurological effects, high blood pressure, thyroid dysfunction and reproductive toxicity. The study concluded that continued use of lipstick containing lead, though in small quantities, could result in body lead accumulation to lethal doses. The study recommends for a regulatory testing program for lead in lipstick brands imported in Uganda to protect consumer health;that government puts in place some disclosure requirements of lead levels in lipstick brands, as in the cases of narcotic products like cigarettes and alcoholic drinks such as beer, so as to protect and safeguard consumer interests; as lipstick is endemic due to perception, consumers should use it only occasionally to minimize lead‟s cumulative effects; and users to opt for lipstick brands with low mineral oils, artificial fragrances and phthalates, and brands with low lead levels.