Health Risk Assessment of Heavy Metals in Traditional Cosmetics Sold in Tunisian Local Markets

Assessing Trace Metal-Based Human Health Risks for Commonly Used Body Soaps in Bangladesh

In Bangladesh, body soaps are very popular among consumers due to their flavors and low alkali content. The current study assesses the contamination of several trace metals (TMs) such as iron (Fe), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), chromium (Cr), manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni), cadmium (Cd), and lead (Pb) in some of the body soaps most commonly used in Bangladesh. The concentrations of Fe, Cu, Zn, Cr, and Mn were found within the acceptable limits stipulated by the World Health Organization (WHO); however, in contrast, the concentrations of Ni, Cd, and Pb remained below the detection limit. Notably, the concentration of Cr in two soap samples (S-2, S-3) out of twenty-one soap samples exceeded the permissible limit stipulated by the WHO. Health risks associated with the TM intake via dermal routes were evaluated in terms of chronic daily intake (CDI) and hazard quotient (HQ). The results indicated that no non-carcinogenic risks (NCR) are likely to occur owing to the use of those body soaps. The carcinogenic risk (CR) estimated for Cr revealed no possibility of probable carcinogenic diseases. Though the NCR and CR are unlikely to occur resulting from the long-term uses of these soaps, the present study provides baseline information on the possible contaminations of TMs in the beauty soaps that do not seem to have been reported so far in Bangladesh. In light of the above information, it can be concluded that the presence of TMs in the body soaps could be a warning for people in general thereby suggesting continuous monitoring.

Tamarix articulata extract offers protection against toxicity induced by beauty products in Hs27 human skin fibroblasts

The current study evaluates the cytotoxicity, mode of cell death and chemical analysis of selected beauty products and evaluation of the protective effect of Tamarix articulata (TA) extract against toxicity induced by beauty products in skin fibroblasts (Hs27). MTT and Crystal violet (CV) assays were used to determine the dose-dependent cytotoxic effects of beauty products against Hs27 fibroblasts. DNA fragmentation assay and annexin-V staining were conducted to determine the mode of cell killing induced by evaluated beauty products. Quantification of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant enzyme levels were used to evaluate the oxidative stress. Chemical analysis and heavy metals were evaluated to determine beauty products. Pre-treatment with TA extract for different time points followed by time-dependent exposure with beauty products to assess the protective effect of TA extract in Hs27 cells was analyzed by MTT and CV assays. Owing to the presence of various harmful heavy metals such as arsenic (As), chromium (Cr), cadmium (Cd), nickel (Ni), and lead (Pb) in beauty products, our results revealed that all beauty products induce significant cytotoxicity over time (1, 4 h) in a dose-dependent (125, 250, 500 μg/mL) manner. DNA fragmentation assay, quantification of apoptosis by annexin-V staining, determination of ROS and antioxidant enzymes (CAT, GSH-Px and SOD) revealed that the induced cytotoxicity was caused by oxidative stress-mediated apoptosis. However, pre-incubation with a safe dose (50 μg/mL) of TA for different times (24, 48 h) followed by exposure to various doses (62.5, 125, 250, 500 μg/mL) of beauty products for different times (1, 4 h) revealed significant (*p≤0.05, **p≤0.01) protection against beauty product-mediated cytotoxicity. The effect was more pronounced for 1 h exposure to beauty products compared to 4 h. Our study demonstrates that the due to the presence of heavy metals in synthetic beauty products exhibit marked toxicity to skin fibroblasts due to oxidative stress-mediated apoptosis. However, the presence of abundant bioactive polyphenols with promising antiscavenging activity in TA extracts significantly nullifies cytotoxicity promoted by examined beauty products in skin fibroblasts (Hs27).

Multielement determination (essential and potentially toxic elements) in eye shadows exposed to consumption in Brazil using ICP OES

Worldwide, cosmetics (especially eye shadows) are widely consumed and have a great impact on the economy. The aim of this study was to determine the multielement composition, focusing on essential and potentially toxic elements, in cosmetics (eye shadow) exposed to consumption in Brazil. Concentrations of 17 elements (Al, As, Ba, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Mn, Mo, Ni, Pb, Sb, Se, Sr, Ti, V and Zn) were determined in samples (produced in China and Brazil) using a sequential optical emission spectrometer with inductively coupled plasma (ICP OES) after acid digestion, assisted by a closed digester block (6 mL of HNO₃ + 2 mL of H₂O₂ + 1 mL of Triton ×-100 + 1 mL of ultrapure water). The method was validated by linearity, precision, accuracy, limits of detection (LoD) and quantification (LoQ). The elements were quantified (in µg g^-1): Al (852-21,900), Ba (3.47-104), Cd (1.70-6.93), Cr (< 8.53-66.6), Cu (< 0.480-14.5), Mn (92.20-1,190), Ni (< 4.23-40.7), Pb (< 2.16-5.06), Sb (1.10-10.5), Sr (0.760-46.0), Ti (32.0-440), V (< 0.85-1.7) and Zn (24.90-2,600). As, Co, Mo and Se in all the investigated samples were found to be below the LoQ values of ICP OES. In this study, regardless of sample compositions and origins (Brazilian or Chinese), high levels of Al, Cd, Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb, Sb, Ti, V and Zn were observed, exceeding the recommended maximum tolerable limits, according to Brazilian and global legislations, which may present potential risks to human health and the environment.

The chemistry behind the body art: unveiling the elemental profile and heavy metal content of natural tattoos and dyes by ICP-MS

Temporary tattoos and dyes are increasing popularity as an alternative to permanent ones. However, knowledge on its elementary composition is scarce and, this scientific gap can potentially make them a source of heavy metal exposure on humans. The present research aimed to explore the possibility of using the inorganic chemical signature to characterize natural pigments-based products and to evaluate the heavy metal content in jagua temporary tattoos and henna temporary hair dyes and tattoos. Thirty-four different samples of commercial products were analyzed for the presence and quantity of eleven trace elements (Al, Cr, Mn, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Cd, Ba, and Pb) by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The overall mean concentrations varied between 0.02 and 973 μg g-1 in solid samples or 0.01-1878 μg g-1 for paste ones, wherein potential fake products were uncovered. None of the 34 samples considered comply with the current European Cosmetics Regulation. Samples were differentiated according to their Cr, Zn, Ba, and Pb content. The overall results revealed highly variable levels in the investigated samples, which leads us to suggest detailed quality controls of these materials, due the fact that their continued use can origin potential threat to human health.

Understanding the chemical and mineralogical composition of commercial henna and jagua tattoos and dyes-a multi-analytical approach

Temporary tattoos and dyes constitute a great analytical challenge in relation to the regulatory control of their ingredients. Most of these commercial products are not labeled according to their content and their chemical nature is highly diverse. Therefore, it is necessary to analyze these complex samples to evaluate the potential presence of metallic impurities, to ensure the safety of cosmetic products contributing to health protection. This study proposes a multi-analytical methodology, which includes handheld X-ray fluorescence (h-XRF) and X-ray diffraction (XRD), complemented by variable pressure scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry (VP-SEM-EDS) to fully characterize 34 commercial samples of jagua and henna tattoos and dyes. The approach allowed the identification of the main constituents providing complementary compositional data and differences between sample types were established. In addition, information on the degree of natural pigments homogeneity was also obtained. The results' discussion considering the current European cosmetics regulation may be useful to support the drafting of safety requirements and specific regulation.

Determination of Metallic Impurities by ICP-MS Technique in Eyeshadows Purchased in Poland. Part I

Eye shadows, which are products willingly and frequently used by women and even children, have been reported in literature to contain toxic metals. In this work, a total of 94 eye shadows samples available on the Polish market were collected. Eye shadow products have been selected in order to include several parameters important from the point of view of the typical consumer such as: product type (mat/pearl), consumer group (for adults and children), price range (very cheap, medium price, expensive and very expensive), color (twelve different colors were tested), manufacturer (eight brands were investigated) or country of production (four countries were included). The concentration of selected metals (Ag, Ba, Bi, Cd, Pb, Sr, Tl) was determined by ICP-MS technique after the sample extraction with a mixture of nitric acid and hydrogen peroxide in a microwave closed system. For Ag, Cd and Tl, some results were below the established limit of quantification for the employed technique. The presence of strontium, barium, lead and bismuth was confirmed in all studied samples. The obtained results for analyzed elements were, in general, quite comparable with the data reported by other authors. A small number of samples exceeding the permissible values (two samples were beyond the limit value for Cd of 0.5 mg/kg and one exceed the acceptable concentration for Pb of 10 mg/kg) also proves a relatively good condition of the Polish cosmetics market and suggests insubstantial risk for the potential consumers. The results gathered for some of the eye shadows intended for children turned out to be alarmingly high, in particular for elements such as Cd. The highest concentration of Cd reached almost 4 mg/kg, while of Pb amounted to 16 mg/kg. The presence of the statistically significant differences was confirmed for all included parameters with an exception of the color of the eye shadow. Considering the results acquired only for Cd and Pb with respect to the country of origin, the least contaminated cosmetics by metallic impurities seem to be the one produced in Canada, while the ones presenting the highest health risk among all studied eye shadows are make-up cosmetics originating from Poland and Italy. Multivariate analysis of a large data set using CA methods and PCA provided valuable information on dependencies between variables and objects.

Cobalt and lead concentrations in cosmetic products sold at local markets in Saudi Arabia

Cosmetics are products that can be used on the human body for cleaning, beautification or enhancing perceived attractiveness. Cosmetics may contain a variety of heavy metals such as cobalt (Co) and lead (Pb), which at high concentrations may pose adverse effects on human health. This study focuses to measure the concentration of heavy metals (Co and Pb) in some cosmetic samples of four types (foundation, skin lighteners, kajal (kohl) and lawsone (henna)) available at local markets in Saudi Arabia. The total number of all cosmetic samples understudy was 41. The samples were analysed using atomic absorption spectroscopy to measure the content of Co and Pb. Quality control of the data was performed using Standard Reference Materials [IAEA-V-10] hay powder. For all cosmetic types and qualities combined, the Co concentration range was determined to be 21.14 ± 3.70-144.91 ± 2.27 μg/g and the Pb range 0.75 ± 0.00-10.60 ± 1.24 μg/g. The Co concentration in all cosmetic types understudy was higher than the recommended level. Pb concentration was within the range recommended by the United States Food and Drug Administration in all types of cosmetics except for kohl, for which 22 % of the samples contained concentrations higher than the permissible limit. The findings of this study call for immediate and ongoing testing to monitor the concentrations of toxic metals in cosmetic products used in Saudi Arabia to ensure that established limits are respected and thereby protect consumer health.

Flow and performance effects of talc alternatives on powder cosmetic formulations

OBJECTIVE

To explore the performance effects of fumed silica and cornstarch as alternatives to talc in cosmetic powder formulations.

METHODS

FT4 Powder Rheometer from Freeman Technology was used to test the flowability and compressibility of compact powder formulation samples containing talc, fumed silica and cornstarch at varying concentrations. The colour of the samples is evaluated by physical observation.

RESULTS

The results show that the concentration of these additives influences the performance of cosmetic powder formulations. Improved compressibility is assessed as an increase in the compressibility percentage, while improved flowability is assessed by reduction in the flow energy of each sample. Talc shows improved compressibility at a minimum of 10% but would require more than 20% to impart improved flow performance. Fumed Silica shows improved compressibility from as low as 5% and this performance increases as the concentration is increased up to 20%. For the flow effects, fumed silica shows a reduction in the flow energy from as little as 5% and this effect is more drastic as the concentration is increased up to 20%. Cornstarch, however, shows a reverse effect for both compressibility and flowability with increasing flow energy and decreasing compressibility with increasing cornstarch concentration. It shows improved compressibility up to a maximum of 10% and improved flow only at concentrations lower than 5%. For a mixture of cornstarch and fumed silica at a total of 5%, both compressibility and flowability are increased as the concentration of cornstarch is reduced and that of fumed silica increased.

CONCLUSION

Fumed silica and cornstarch are suitable as alternatives to talc in cosmetic powder formulations. Of the two, Fumed silica showed better compressibility and flow effects. However, a mix of both powders had suitable effects on the compressibility, flow and colour of the formulation.

Toxic Elements in Traditional Kohl-Based Eye Cosmetics in Spanish and German Markets

Kohl is a traditional cosmetic widely used in Asia and Africa. In recent years, demand for kohl-based eyelids and lipsticks has increased in Europe, linked to migratory phenomena of populations from these continents. Although the European legislation prohibits the use of heavy metals in cosmetics due to the harmful effects to human health, particularly to pregnant women and children, these elements are still present in certain products. The European Union recommended levels are Pb < 20 ppm, As < 5 ppm, Cd < 5 ppm, Sb < 100 ppm, and Ni < 200 ppm. In Germany, levels are more restrictive: Pb < 2 ppm, As < 0.5 ppm, Cd < 0.1 ppm, Sb < 0.5 ppm, and Ni < 10 ppm. Here, we analyzed 12 kohl-based cosmetics in different presentations (powder, paste, and pencil) that were purchased in Spanish and German local shops. An inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrophotometer was used to identify toxic elements and heavy metals. Levels of Pb ranged between 1.7 and 410,000 ppm in six of the study samples, four of which had levels above the recommended limit of at least two heavy metals. Arsenic (a carcinogenic element) values were within the range allowed by the EU in only 58% of the studied samples. Moreover, two products doubled this limit, reaching levels of 9.2 and 12.6 ppm. In one of the products, cadmium, related to toxic keratitis, was four times higher (20.7 ppm) than that allowed, while in two other products, these limits were doubled (11.8 and 12.7 ppm). Our results indicate the need to supervise the manufacture of kohl-based traditional products and the analysis of their composition prior distribution in European countries.

Determination and Assessment of the Toxic Heavy Metal Elements Abstracted from the Traditional Plant Cosmetics and Medical Remedies: Case Study of Libya

Henna and walnut tree bark are widely used by Libyan women as cosmetics. They may contain lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd) and arsenic (As), which, in turn, pose a high risk to their health. This study aims to determine the levels of Pb, Cd and As in henna and walnut tree bark products sold in Libyan markets. The products were analyzed for their Pb, Cd and As content by using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) after a microwave acid digestion. The results showed a significant difference between the henna and walnut tree bark samples in terms of their heavy metals content (p < 0.05). The highest heavy metal concentrations were observed in the walnut tree bark samples whereas the lowest was observed in the henna samples. In addition, 60% of the henna and 90% of the walnut tree bark samples contained Pb levels and approximately 80% of the henna and 90% the walnut tree bark samples contained Cd levels, which are much higher than the tolerance limit. However, As concentrations in all the samples were lower. The results indicated that such cosmetics expose consumers to high levels of Pb and Cd and hence, to potential health risks. Thus, studying the sources and effects of heavy metals in such cosmetics is strongly recommended.

The Assessment of Toxic Metals in Plants Used in Cosmetics and Cosmetology

Heavy metals polluting the natural environment are absorbed by plants. The use of herbs as components of cosmetics may pose a health risk for humans. The aim of the study was to determine the concentrations of Pb, Cd and Hg in selected species of herbs (horsetail Equisetum arvense, nettle Urtica dioica, St. John’s wort Hypericum perforatum, wormwood Artemisia absinthium, yarrow Achillea millefolium, cottonwood Solidago virgaurea) self-collected from the natural environment in two different locations, and purchased in stores on the territory of Poland. The concentration of the metals studied was: 4.67–23.8 mg/kg Pb, 0.01–1.51 mg/kg Cd, 0.005–0.028 mg/kg Hg. Different concentrations of metals, depending on species and origin of plants, were found. The mean concentration of all studied metals was the lowest in St. John’s wort, and the highest in nettle. In herbs purchased in Polish stores, the concentration of Pb was higher than in plants self-collected in the natural environment.

External lead contamination of women's nails by surma in Pakistan: Is the biomarker reliable?

Adverse health effects of heavy metals are a public health concern, especially lead may cause negative health impacts to human fetal and infantile development. The lead concentrations in Pakistani pregnant women's nails, used as a biomarker, were measured to estimate the lead exposure. Thirteen nail samples out of 84 nails analyzed contained lead higher than the concentration (13.6 μg/g) of the fatal lead poisoning case, raising the possibility of an external contamination. Eye cosmetics such as surma are recognized as one of the important sources of lead exposure in Pakistan. We collected in Pakistan 30 eye cosmetics made in Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and western countries. As the metal composition analysis by energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry revealed that some surma samples contained lead more than 96%, the surma might contaminate the nail specimen. Scanning electron microscopy observations showed that lead-containing surma consists of fine particle of galena (ore of lead sulfide) in respirable dust range (less than 10 μm). In addition, relative in vitro bioavailability of lead in the surma was determined as 5.2%. Thus, lead-containing surma consists of inhalable and bioavailable particles, and it contributes an increased risk of lead exposure. Moreover, the relationship between the surma and the lead-contaminated nails by lead isotope ratios analysis indicated the potential of lead contamination in nails by surma. These results suggest that lead in the nails was derived both from body burden of lead and external contamination by lead-containing surma. Therefore, nail is not suited as a biomarker for lead exposure in the countries where surma used, because we may overestimate lead exposure by surface lead contamination in the nail by surma.