Assessment of some heavy metals in selected cosmetics commonly used in Bangladesh and human health risk

Evaluating metal levels and potential health risks of nail polish brands on the Ghanaian market

Research has shown possible existence of heavy metals in cosmetic products, as they are known to impact colour. Assessments have been carried out on selected brands of nail polishes on Ghanaian markets in the Ashanti Region, for levels of six metals, i.e., lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), aluminium (Al), chromium (Cr), manganese (Mn), and copper (Cu). A total of twenty (20) nail polish samples were analysed using the Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer model nova 400P. The highest concentrations determined were Al (77.50 mg/L), Cu (2.126 mg/L), and Cr (25.66 mg/L). The levels of Pb, Cd, and Mn were all below detection limit. All samples analysed were below the WHO permissible limits, making them safe for use. Health risks associated with intake of these metals via dermal route, inhalation, and ingestion are evaluated, Hazard Quotient (HQ) and Hazard Index (HI) are below unity, suggesting no potential health risks associated with their use.

Investigation of mercury contamination in lipstick sold in the Saudi market and the potential health risk

Background: Environmental contamination is a significant global health issue, with cosmetics and pharmaceuticals being major polluters. High concentrations of heavy metals, such as Hg, have been found to have toxic effects and may pose a threat to human health. This study aimed to determine the concentration of mercury (Hg) in lipsticks available in the Saudi Arabia market.

Methods: In this study, 12 lipstick samples from three colors were analyzed using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) to measure the content of Hg.

Results: The concentration range of Hg was 0.004-0.296 ppm. Moreover, the systemic exposure dosage of mercury in the lipstick samples examined in this study ranged from 5.01 × 10-8 to 1.43 × 10-6 μg/kg bw/day, while the range of the margin of safety was from 7.3 × 109 to 2.2 × 108.

Discussion: The Hg concentration in all analyzed samples was less than 0.50 and 1 ppm, which indicated that the Hg level was within acceptable limits according to Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organisation (SASO) and the United States Food and Drug Administration (US FDA), respectively. On the other hand, the calculated margin of safety values for mercury exceeded the safe standard established by the WHO. The results derived from using hazard quotient (HQ) indices depict the potential carcinogenic health risk posed to consumers who employ red-colored lipsticks.

Semi-quantitative health risk assessment of heavy metal dust exposure among nail technicians using the SQRA technique and Monte Carlo simulation

Nail technology, including the application of artificial nails and nail care, is a developing sector of the global beauty industry. Nail technicians are exposed to a variety of chemical substances through inhalation, as they spend extended periods of time in close proximity to these materials. This study aimed to evaluate the semi-quantitative health risk of dust-containing heavy metals among nail technicians. This analytical descriptive study employed the risk assessment method provided by the Singapore Occupational Health Department to evaluate the health hazards of lead, cadmium, nickel, chromium, and manganese. Dust samples from nail filing were collected from the respiratory zone of 20 nail technicians following the NIOSH 7300 method. The samples were analyzed using ICP-OES instrumentation. Monte Carlo simulation was utilized to characterize the risk and its uncertainties. Manganese and cadmium had the highest and lowest mean concentrations, respectively. The risk scores of the metals ranked from highest to lowest were as follows: N i > C r > C d > M n > P b . All five metals had risk rankings below 2.8, signifying a minimal risk level. Sensitivity analysis using Spearman's correlation coefficient demonstrated a positive relationship between concentration, daily hours of exposure, and the number of workdays per week with the risk score (RR) and exposure level (ER). Conversely, the variable of weekly working hours (W) showed a negative correlation with these parameters. Despite the low-risk level of the examined metals, continuous exposure and potential long-term effects on nail technicians warrant preventive measures. Recommendations include implementing local exhaust ventilation systems, using table fans, establishing work-rest cycles, wearing N95 dust masks, and using reputable and high-quality nail polishes.

Unveiling the Rising Threat of Cadmium Pollution and Alarming Health Risks Associated with the Consumption of 15 Commercially Important Fish Species in the Middle Stretch of River Ganga, at Patna, India

Among environmental contaminants, the rising level of cadmium in freshwater ecosystems is one of the most significant global concerns. The study addresses the current pollution status of cadmium in the middle stretch of River Ganga and explores the potential hazard associated with the consumption of 15 commercially important fish species by the inhabitants. Together 72 water and sediment samples were analyzed from the four representative sampling sites of River Ganga after the surveillance of major anthropogenic stressors. The concentration of cadmium ranges from 0.003 to 0.011 mg/l and 0.2 to 3.48 mg/kg in water and sediment respectively in 2022. The average concentration of cadmium was recorded to be the highest in Channa punctatus (1.35 mg/kg), followed by Rita rita = Johnius coitor (1.15 mg/kg), and the lowest in Labeo bata (0.2 mg/kg). The finding highlights greater exposure duration and feeding preferences of fish species have played a significant role in the bioaccumulation of the metal in the riverine system. Notably, the domestic effluents, agricultural runoffs, and pollutants brought along by the tributaries of River Ganga are identified as the main anthropogenic stressors for the moderate to considerably polluted status of the River Ganga. The target hazard quotient (THQ) and target carcinogenic risk (TCR) have revealed a higher susceptibility to cadmium contamination in children followed by females, and males. In addition, hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) has noted intake of Rita rita, Channa punctata, Puntius sophore, and Johnius coitor could be more detrimental to children's health than adults.

Theoretical Health Risk Assessment Based on Potentially Toxic Element Profiling of Cosmetic Products in Istanbul Street Bazaars

Toxic elements that pose a potential threat to human health are found as impurities in various cosmetic products. In this study, the inorganic profile of 19 elements (Li, B, Mg, Al, Cr, Mn, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Se, Sr, Mo, Cd, Sb, Ba, Hg, and Pb) in 90 cosmetic products (lipsticks, lip glosses, lip pencils and eye shadows) were detected by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry after microwave acid digestion method and hazard indices (HI) of 9 toxic elements (Pb, Cd, Cr, Ni, Co, As, Hg, Sb, and Al) were calculated for the assessment of theoretical health risk. Satisfactory method performance parameters were found for each analyte. The results were compared with the maximum permissible limits set by regulatory agencies; 38 of 41 lip products (92.68%) and all eye shadows (n = 49) exceeded the established limits. The HI was found to be ≥ 1 in 82.76% of lip products for oral exposure, whereas HI was ≤ 1 for dermal exposure in all lip products (n = 41) and only one eye shadow sample was ≥ 1 (2.04%). Remarkable results were also detected for 19 elements in this study, which conducted a comprehensive inorganic profiling for the first time. Wide-range concentrations of Mg, Al, Ba, Mn, Cu, Zn, and Sr elements were remarkable. HI values were firstly brought out in this study, although Al, as a well-known toxic element, has not been listed in regulations yet. In conclusion, it is obviously seen that continuous monitoring of cosmetics is crucial not only for toxic elements but also for other essential or non-toxic elements to prevent consumers from long-term exposure.

Inhalation exposure to toxic heavy metals in nail salon technicians and health risk assessment using Monte Carlo simulation

OBJECTIVE

Nail salons offer a developing and diverse occupation for many women, especially the new generation. Due to the increasing apprehension surrounding heavy metals in dust caused by filing nails containing dried nail polish, the present study was designed aimed to health risk assessment of heavy metals in breathing zone of nail salon technicians (NSTs).

METHODS

This is a cross-sectional study that was conducted in NSTs. The concentration of Cadmium (Cd), Lead (Pb), Nickel (Ni), Chromium (Cr) and Manganese (Mn)in breathing zone of 20 NSTs was determined using ICP-OES.

RESULTS

The metal concentrations were in the following order: Mn > Pb > Ni > Cr > Cd with corresponding arithmetic mean values of0.008, 0.0023, 0.0021, 0.001 and 0.0006 mg m-3, respectively, which are exceeded the recommended levels stated in the indoor air guidelines. The average lifetime carcinogenic risk (LCR) for Cr, Cd, Ni and Pb was calculated 0.0084, 0.00054, 0.00026 and 1.44 E - 05, respectively. The LCR values of all metals (except Pb) exceeded the acceptable level set by the USEPA. The mean of Hazard quotients (HQ) for Mn, Cd, Cr, Ni and Pb were calculated to be23.7, 4.74, 2.19, 0.51 and 0.0.24, respectively. The sensitivity analysis showed that, the exposure frequency (EF) for Cr and Ni had the strong effects on generation of both LCR and HQ. Furthermore, the concentrations of Mn, Cd and Pb had strong impacts on the HQ generation and the concentration of Cd and Pb had main effects on LCR generation.

CONCLUSION

To effectively reduce pollutant concentration, it is recommended to install a ventilation system near nail salon work tables and conduct continuous monitoring and quality control of nail products.

Assessing the health risks of dermal exposure to heavy metals dust among nail salon technicians

BACKGROUND

Nail salon technicians are susceptible to potential exposure to a diverse array of hazardous chemicals in the form of dust or vapors. One of the main routes of exposure is dermal contact.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of present study was to health risk assessment of dermal exposure to dust containing heavy metals in nail salon technicians.

METHODS

Dust sampling was done on the work surface of 20 available nail salon technicians. The concentration of five metals including cadmium, lead, chromium, nickel, and manganese were determined using ICP-MS. Afterwards, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) guideline was used to estimate the potential health risks, including carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks, associated with the analyzed metals.

RESULTS

Results indicated the mean concentrations of Pb, Cd, Ni, Cr and Mn were 0.7953±0.4373, 0.0952±0.0264, 0.7666±0.8629, 0.4900±0.5994 and 1.134±0.4736, respectively. The hazard quotient (HQ) of all metals was within the permissible value, while hazard index (HI) was greater than 1. The probability of cancer risk (CR) resulting from dermal exposure to Ni, Cd and Cr exceeded the acceptable risk levels (10-6-10-4), but CR calculated for Pb was less than allowable value.

CONCLUSION

Implementation of engineering controls such as downdraft vented nail tables and portable source capture systems is necessary. Besides, the use of personal protective equipment such as disposable nitrile gloves, N95 respirator masks, and ensuring proper training on safe work practices is recommended.

Assessment and computational bioevaluation of heavy metals from selected cosmetic products

Heavy metal toxicity in environment has been an increasing issue for last decades, though now the attention has diverted to presence of heavy metals in cosmetic products. The aim of this study was to determine the concentration of selected heavy metals in cosmetic products (lipsticks and foundations) using ICP-OES. Health risk assessment was done by using hazard quotient (HQ) and hazard index (HI). HQ for lipsticks was below the safe limit (HQ = < 1) while for foundations it exceeded the safe limit (HQ = >1). Mostly, mercury (Hg) and iron (Fe) were found to be exceeding the permissible limit, the allowed limits are Hg, 1 ppm; Fe, 10 ppm; Cd, 0.3 ppm; and Cr, 1 ppm. Iron was found to be highest in lipsticks (123.86 ± 1.05 ppm) as well as in foundations (34.52 ± 0.08 ppm). Health risk assessment was done by using hazard quotient (HQ) and hazard index (HI). HQ for lipsticks was below the safe limit (HQ = < 1) while for foundations it exceeded the safe limit (HQ = >1). To understand the binding pattern of heavy metals to skin targets, molecular docking studies were carried out. This revealed the potentially harmful behavior of these heavy metals on the skin. This will provide new direction for the structural changes of consistence and activity of macromolecules in our body. Research proved that prolonged use of cosmetic products containing heavy metals can be harmful and sometimes fatal to human life as these heavy metals can penetrate through the skin and target the skin enzymes, disrupting their normal function leading to various skin related issues such as dermatitis (itching, redness, burning) hence the monitoring of cosmetic products is necessary for safety of human being.

Quality assessment of hydroquinone, mercury, and arsenic in skin-lightening cosmetics marketed in Ilorin, Nigeria

Hydroquinone, Mercury (Hg), and Arsenic (As) are hazardous to health upon long-term exposure. Hydroquinone, Hg, and As were analysed in skin-lightening cosmetics randomly purchased from different cosmetic outlets within the Ilorin metropolis, Nigeria. The amount of hydroquinone in the samples was determined using a UV-spectrophotometry method at 290 nm. Hg and As were quantified using atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS). UV-spectrophotometry method validation showed excellent linearity (r2 = 0.9993), with limits of detection (0.75 µg/mL), limits of quantification (2.28 µg/mL), relative standard deviation (0.01-0.35%), and recovery (95.85-103.56%) in the concentration range of 5-50 µg/mL. Similarly, r2, LOD, and LOQ for Hg and As were 0.9983 and 0.9991, (0.5 and 1.0 µg/L) and 1.65 and 3.3 µg/L) respectively. All the samples contained hydroquinone, Hg and As in varying amounts. The amounts of hydroquinone, Hg and As present were in the ranges of 1.9-3.3%, 0.08-2.52 µg/g and 0.07-5.30 µg/g respectively. Only three of the analysed samples contained hydroquinone within the permissible limit of 2.0% w/w in cosmetic products. All the samples analysed contained mercury and arsenic in varying amounts. The need to periodically monitor the levels of hydroquinone, mercury, and arsenic in skin-lightening cosmetics marketed in Nigeria is recommended.

Toxic element determination in selected cosmetic products: health risk assessment

The aim of this research was to determine the content of arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), and nickel (Ni) in selected lipsticks and face foundations of different price categories and the health risk assessment associated with these toxic elements via dermal and oral exposure. The samples (10 lipstick and 10 face foundations) were purchased from local markets in Belgrade, Serbia. The samples were prepared by acid digestion and analyzed by atomic absorption spectrometry (flame atomization for Cd, Pb, and Ni and electrothermal atomization for As). Arsenic was found in 50% of lipstick samples and in only two face foundation samples with the highest concentration of 0.28 mg/kg in the lipstick sample. Lead concentration was in the range of 1.15 to 5.12 mg/kg in ten samples. Nickel was found in five samples out of 20, with the highest concentration of 4.20 mg/kg. Cadmium was found in only one face foundation sample in the cheaper price range (1.11 mg/kg). The obtained results indicate that concentrations of As, Pb, Cd, and Ni were within the permissible limits according to Serbian legislation. Health risk associated with these elements was assessed as non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risk. Obtained hazard quotients (HQs) and hazard indexes (HIs) were below 1, indicating the absence of significant non-carcinogenic health risk due to exposure to these toxic elements (TEs). The carcinogenic risk results show that investigated cosmetic products can be considered low-risky due to the possibility of causing malignant disease.

Urinary levels of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in female beauticians and their association with urinary biomarkers of oxidative stress/inflammation and kidney injury

The present research was aimed to assess the urinary levels of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in female beauticians and its correlation with oxidative stress/inflammation and kidney injury. To this end, the urine samples were collected from 50 female beauticians from beauty salons (exposed group) and 35 housewives (control group), and then, the level of PTEs was determined. The mean levels of the sum of urinary PTEs (∑PTEs) biomarkers in before and after exposure and control group were 83.55, 114.27 and 13.61 μg/L, respectively. Results also showed that the urinary level of PTEs biomarkers is significantly higher in women occupationally exposed to cosmetics compared to control group. The urinary levels of arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), and chromium (Cr) biomarkers have high correlation coefficients with early oxidative stress effects such as 8-Hydroxyguanosine (8-OHdG), 8-isoprostane and Malondialdehyde (MDA). Moreover, As and Cd biomarker levels were positively and significantly associated with kidney damages such as urinary kidney injury molecule-1 (uKIM-1) and tissue inhibitor matrix metalloproteinase 1 (uTIMP-1) (P < 0.01). Therefore, women who working in beauty salons can probably be categorized as high - exposure and high-risk workers in terms of DNA oxidative and kidney damages.

ORAİBİ H. Health Risk Assessment of Some Heavy Metals in Lipsticks Sold in Local Markets in Iraq

Heavy metals found in cosmetics are a safety threat to the health of consumers. Therefore, in this study, we evaluated the levels of heavy metals such as cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), lead (Pb), zinc (Zn), and arsenic (As) in lipstick makeup. The level of heavy metals in lipstick was discovered by using an analytical technique with high selectivity and sensitivity, namely atomic absorption spectrometry. Twenty lipsticks were selected from the same brands, yet differing in price. Ten original (expensive) and ten knockoff (cheap) lipsticks were chosen from shops in Diyala, Iraq. The detection-limit (LOD) was in between 0.01 and 0.1, the quantification-limit (LOQ) was within 0.03 and 0.33, the recovery values (Rec.%) ranged from 100.17% to 101.1%, the RE values were 0.81%, and the RSD values were 1.33%. The results also revealed that the levels of metals are in the order of Pb &gt; Cd &gt; Zn &gt; Cu &gt; As &gt; Cr. However, the levels of heavy metals that were estimated in this study were less than the permissible limit set by the executive authorities, so there seems to be no concern associated with these heavy metals. However, the daily and frequent use of lipstick by women exposes them to low levels of toxic metals as these metals accumulate over time and pose adverse effects on the health of the users. The results of the hazard quotient (HQ) and health risk index (HI) indicate there was no harmful effect on human health related to heavy metals present in lipstick. Whereas the results of the biological activity of the samples indicated that there was no bacterial growth in expensive samples, cheap samples were contaminated with some types of organisms; this indicates poor quality.

Exposure and health risks of metals in imported and local brands' lipsticks and eye pencils from Bangladesh

Elemental contamination in cosmetics is a serious health concern as it can pose a cumulative effect on the user's body over a long period. The prime motive of the study was to assess the concentration of 10 concerning chemical elements (Pb, Cd, Cr, As, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Fe, and Mn) in imported and local lipsticks and eye pencil samples collected from retail outlets in central Bangladesh (Dhaka city) and to assess their dynamic health risks for users. A total of 18 lipsticks and 24 eye pencils were studied and concentrations of chemical elements were examined with atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The health risk assessment was performed for dermal and ingestion routes of the contaminants. The results reveal that the concentrations of the examined elements vary with colors, brands, and origins. Pb and As concentrations were found below the permissible limit but Cr concentration in some samples exceeded the allowable limit in cosmetics. Cd was not detected in any samples; however, other examined elements such as Co, Ni, Cu, Mn, Zn, and Fe were detected in considerable concentrations. Elements like Mn, Zn, and Fe were found at high levels. In the case of lipstick samples, elemental concentrations followed the order of Fe > Zn > Mn > Ni > Cr > Cu > Pb > Co > As, while the order was Fe > Cu > Mn > Zn > Ni > Cr > Co > Pb > As for eye pencil samples. Results of the hazards quotient (HQ) indicate that there were no non-carcinogenic or carcinogenic risks of elements in samples for dermal exposure. But the cancer risk values of Cr (HQ > 1 for ingestion) in brown color lipsticks and Ni indicate that lipsticks have some carcinogenic effects if they enter the user's body. Dermal cancer risk for eye pencils has also been calculated and for Pb, Cr, Ni, and As; the values were found within the acceptable ranges of 10^-6-10^-4. It is suggested that the allowable limit of all toxic elements in cosmetics must be established. Furthermore, continuous monitoring is urgently needed for personal care products like lipsticks and eye pencils commonly available in the local markets in the country like Bangladesh.

Microbiological analysis, antimicrobial activity, heavy-metals content and physico-chemical properties of Fijian mud pool samples

The hot springs are home to a rich bacterial diversity which could be the source of enzymes, antibiotics and many other commercially important products. Most of the hot springs present in Fiji are unexplored and their analysis of microbial diversity could be of great interest in facilitating various industrial, agricultural and medicinal applications. This study is an attempt to evaluate the heavy metal concentration and to analyze the comprehensive bacterial diversity of two Fijian thermal mud pools, namely Sabeto and Tifajek. The two hot springs have a pH of 7.28 to 7.19 and a temperature of 32.2 to 38.8 °C, respectively. Mean metal concentrations of the studied mud samples ranged from 4.758 to 6.870 mg/kg and followed a decreasing sequence as Fe > Mn > Zn > Na > Ni > Cd > Ca > Cr > Cu. Levels of Fe, Na, Mn, Zn, Ni, Cd, Ca, Cr, Cu in the mud pool samples were within World Health Organisation (WHO) limits, while Cd was above regulatory limits. The heavy metals analysis results showed that both mud pools had high values for Cd, above the WHO limit of 3 mg/kg. In addition, 8 strains of actinomycetes were successfully identified for the first time in the Sabeto mud pool, where most of them showed antibacterial activity. The genetic identification of most isolates was determined in BLASTn analyses of their 16S rRNA sequences. Isolates were identified as that of Streptomyces, Nocardia and Rhodococcus genus. Further, AntiSMASH results of the closest relatives of cultured actinobacteria have shown to produce antibiotics, natural pesticides and other compounds of various usage. This study also found no fecal coliforms and supports existing knowledge and practice of using Fijian thermal mud pools for their therapeutic properties. Overall, the presented work indicated that the studied mud pools have therapeutic properties, harboring wealth of bacteria with antibiotic profiles and were risk free from health-related issues of heavy metals and disease-causing pathogens. It provides great insight into the studied mud pools which serves as a baseline from which further heavy metal monitoring or mitigation programs and microbial researches can be conducted.

Status of cosmetic safety in Malaysia market: Mercury contamination in selected skin whitening products

BACKGROUND

Concern on cosmetic safety has been a subject of interest in recent years and is commonly associated with the exposure of the consumers to chemicals and impurities such as mercury contamination. Moreover, cancellations of notified cosmetic products were recurrently being reported by the Malaysia authority, namely the National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Authority (NPRA). Among the cosmetic categories was skin whitening product, which is still in high demand whilst reported to cause health risks. Besides, low number of studies on cosmetic safety and mercury contamination were recorded in Malaysia. The lack of scientific evidence on the safety and risks of the ingredients used in cosmetic formulation is a major concern to many consumers.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to identify the presence of mercury in skin whitening products, and to identify products containing mercury with the concentration exceeding the limitation of 1 ppm.

METHODOLOGY

A total of 104 whitening products were selected from the market via random sampling technique. The mercury concentration was determined by accredited laboratory, and the results were later compared with the cosmetic guideline of Malaysia and the list of banned products issued by NPRA.

RESULTS

A total of 51.9% (n = 54) whitening products were found registered under the NPRA Quest system and remaining 48.1% (n = 50) were non-registered products. None of the whitening products listed mercury as an ingredient, but laboratory analysis showed 15.4% (n = 16) of the products contained mercury with the concentration exceeding the maximum limit of 1 ppm. A total of 87.5% of the whitening products (14 out of 16) containing high mercury concentration were non-registered products which were not registered in NPRA Quest system. The exceeded concentration recorded ranged between 1.81 ppm and 838 123 ppm. Besides that, 50% (8 out of 16) of the products were found in the list of banned products issued by the NPRA of Malaysia.

CONCLUSIONS

This study presents the status of cosmetic products, particularly the skin whitening products available in Malaysia market. Concern arises when some of the products were found to have presence of harmful substances such as mercury. Even though the presence of mercury in a cosmetic product can either be non-intentional or intentionally used by the manufacturer in the cosmetic formulation, the impact of the ingredient can cause health risk to the users.

The Ability of Acid-Based Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents to Co-Extract Elements from the Roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra L. and Associated Health Risks

The roots of licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra L.) have been widely used in traditional and officinal medicines for the treatment of different diseases. Natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES) have become popular for the extraction of active principles from medicinal plants. However, the ability of NADES to co-extract trace elements during the isolation of target active compounds is rarely investigated. The aim of this study was to analyze the content of trace elements in acid-based NADES extracts from the roots of G. glabra and the health risks associated with them. In this study, we have tested for the first time the ability of several acid-based NADES to co-extract glycyrrhizic acid (GA) and trace elements from the roots of G. glabra. GA has been identified as the dominant phytochemical in G. glabra NADES extracts (0.145-0.495 mg/g). Due to the close pKa of lactic acid and GA, the yield of GA in lactic acid-based NADES was higher in comparison with other tested NADES. The yield of GA in NADES3-NADES5 was statistically significant and surpassed the yield of GA in water. The recovery of all elements (except Li) by all tested NADES was low (less than 6%). According to an ANOVA test, the hydrogen bond donor type plays a decisive role in the extraction of elements. A strong positive correlation between the recovery of GA and MPI was noted. The metal pollution index, hazard quotient, hazard index, and chronic daily intake were calculated and suggest that all tested NADES extracts of G. glabra roots were nontoxic and possess no health risk for both ingestion and topical application.

Quality and safety investigation of commonly used topical cosmetic preparations

Cosmetic and personal care products are considered an essential part of our daily care routine; hence, these products must be stable and safe for human use. This study aimed to assess the quality and safety of the most common cosmetic preparations. To select the products to be tested, a cross-sectional survey was distributed featuring the most used types and brands of products. Based on 447 responses from both males and females with different ages and education levels, 21 products from different brands were selected and tested in terms of microbial load, heavy metal content, and organoleptic properties. Microbial contamination was investigated using the aerobic plate count method. Lead (Pb), aluminum (Al), cadmium (Cd), cobalt (Co), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni), zinc (Zn), iron (Fe), and arsenic (As) impurities were analyzed using an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer. The products included sunblock, lip balm, hand cream, hair cream, shampoo, cleanser, baby oil, baby powder, bar soap, hair dye, makeup, deodorant, hair serum, shaving gel, and toothpaste. Microbial contamination was found in 14 of the products, ranging between 1467.5 and 299.5 cfu/ml. The most commonly isolated microorganisms were Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus species. Most of the tested products showed metal impurities, with toothpaste having the highest concentrations of Pb, Cr, As, Cu and Ni. The samples did not show lumps or discoloration, did not have characteristic odors, and had pH values ranging from 6.90 to 8.10. The continuous usage of such products could lead to serious negative consequences. As a result, ensuring the quality of cosmetic products is critical. Regulatory authorities are required to enforce strict legislation on cosmetic manufacturing to assess and ensure the quality and safety of the products before they reach consumers.

Use of Hand Creams during the Period of Frequent Disinfection in COVID-19 Pandemic-Preference Survey and Evaluation of Mercury Contamination

The skin is one of the ways the human body is exposed to toxic elements, including mercury (Hg). Hand creams are cosmetics that should be of high quality due to the fact that they can be used on irritated skin, which can facilitate the absorption of many ingredients. The study consisted of two stages: a consumer questionnaire was conducted regarding the preferences of the respondents, and then the Hg content in hand creams was determined. The survey covered 184 people with an age of 26.9 ± 7.8 years. Based on their preferences, 140 hand creams were selected for the study. The Hg content in the creams was determined by atomic absorption spectrometry with the amalgamation technique. The median content of this toxic element was 4.067 µg/kg. No influence of the country of origin, price, package size, main ingredients, and direction of action on the Hg content was shown. Noncarcinogenic risk assessment using the hazard quotient (HQ) indicated that the tested creams are safe. However, it should be emphasized that Hg has been shown in over 99% of the samples, which indicates that the content of this element in hand creams should be monitored.

Medicinal Plant Growth in Heavy Metals Contaminated Soils: Responses to Metal Stress and Induced Risks to Human Health

Accelerating heavy metal pollution is a hot issue due to a continuous growth in consumerism and increased activities in various global industries. Soil contamination with heavy metals has resulted in their incorporation into the human food web via plant components. Accumulation and amplification of heavy metals in human tissues through the consumption of medicinal plants can have hazardous health outcomes. Therefore, in this critical review we aim to bring together published information on this subject, with a special highlight on the knowledge gaps related to heavy metal stress in medicinal plants, their responses, and human health related risks. In this respect, this review outlines the key contamination sources of heavy metals in plants, as well as the absorption, mobilization and translocation of metal ions in plant compartments, while considering their respective mechanisms of detoxification. In addition, this literature review attempts to highlight how stress and defensive strategies operate in plants, pointing out the main stressors, either biotic or abiotic (e.g., heavy metals), and the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in stress answers. Finally, in our research, we further aim to capture the risks caused by heavy metals in medicinal plants to human health through the assessment of both a hazard quotient (HQ) and hazard index (HI).

The Impact of Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents and Extraction Method on the Co-Extraction of Trace Metals from Fucus vesiculosus

In recent years, natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES) have been widely investigated for the extraction of food and medicinal plants as well as seaweeds. However, the ability of NADES for trace elements co-extraction from natural sources is not well investigated. The aim of this study was to investigate the ability of common NADES for trace elements co-extraction from Fucus vesiculosus. All of the tested NADES did not recover As and Co (concentration Collapse

Key Words

• Fucus vesiculosus
• NADES
• extraction
• hazard quotient
• health risk
• natural deep eutectic solvents
• trace elements
• trace metals

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MESH Headings

• Deep Eutectic Solvents
• Fucus
• Plant Extracts
• Solvents
• Water

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Grants

• 121091600104-7 Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation within the framework of the Government Assignment to the Murmansk Marine Biological Institute Russian Academy of Sciences
• 075-15-2021-685; dated 26 July 2021 on the provision of the federal budget grants Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation

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Affiliation(s)

Alexander N. Shikov Murmansk Marine Biological Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences (MMBI RAS), Vladimirskaya, 17, 183010 Murmansk, Russia; (E.D.O.); (O.N.P.) Department of Pharmaceutical Formulations, St. Petersburg State Chemical Pharmaceutical University, Prof. Popov, 14, 197376 Saint-Petersburg, Russia;
Ekaterina D. Obluchinskaya Murmansk Marine Biological Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences (MMBI RAS), Vladimirskaya, 17, 183010 Murmansk, Russia; (E.D.O.); (O.N.P.)
Elena V. Flisyuk Department of Pharmaceutical Formulations, St. Petersburg State Chemical Pharmaceutical University, Prof. Popov, 14, 197376 Saint-Petersburg, Russia;
Inna I. Terninko Core Shared Research Facilities “Analytical Center”, St. Petersburg State Chemical Pharmaceutical University, Prof. Popov, 14, 197376 Saint-Petersburg, Russia; (I.I.T.); (Y.E.G.)
Yulia E. Generalova Core Shared Research Facilities “Analytical Center”, St. Petersburg State Chemical Pharmaceutical University, Prof. Popov, 14, 197376 Saint-Petersburg, Russia; (I.I.T.); (Y.E.G.)
Olga N. Pozharitskaya Murmansk Marine Biological Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences (MMBI RAS), Vladimirskaya, 17, 183010 Murmansk, Russia; (E.D.O.); (O.N.P.)

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Ananas comosus Peels Extract as a New Natural Cosmetic Ingredient: Oil-in-Water (O/W) Topical Nano Cream Stability and Safety Evaluation

Ananas comosus peels (AcP) are among the agro-industrial biomasses contributing to a significant volume of waste in Malaysia. Thus, the AcP extract (AcPE) may prove useful for other applications, such as an ingredient in a nanocream for controlled delivery for dermal application. Therefore, this study aimed to develop an oil-in-water (O/W) nanocream using ingredients derived from the AcPE and test its stability alongside safety evaluation. The extract is a rich source of polyphenolic compounds viz., catechin, quercetin, and gallic acid. The study discovered that the optimized AcPE nano cream was stable against coalescence during the accelerated test but was influenced by Ostwald ripening over 6 weeks of storage at 4°C. Safety assessments affirmed the AcPE nano cream to be free of microbial contamination and heavy metals. The findings conveyed that the A. comosus nano cream is a good cosmetic ingredient and may contribute to the cosmeceutical industry's new and safe topical products.

Exploring the Properties of Micronized Natural Zeolitic Volcanic Tuff as Cosmetic Ingredient

This study explores the characteristics of a micronized natural zeolitic volcanic tuff (MZ) as ingredient in cosmetic formulations. In particular, the purpose was to prepare and investigate the organoleptic and physicochemical properties of two representative cosmetic formulations containing MZ. The MZ samples were characterized using X-ray fluorescence (XRF), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. pH, cation exchange capacity (CEC), apparent density, chemical composition and particle size distribution of MZ samples were also determined. The micronization treatment applied did not produce significant structural and physicochemical changes with respect to the raw zeolitic volcanic tuff. The prepared formulations containing 5% MZ with different particle sizes (100-125 µm and 125-250 µm) were subjected to preliminary and accelerated stability tests, and the pH and organoleptic properties were also evaluated. The cosmetic formulations presented a pH of 4.3, a pleasant touch, good spreadability, easy application on skin, no color alteration and a good stability after 15, 30 and 60 days of storage at room temperature, low temperature and freezer during the accelerated stability tests. The obtained results endorse the MZ as suitable for the development of formulations exploiting the clinoptilolite properties as a cosmetic ingredient.

Evaluation of metallic trace elements contents in some major raw foodstuffs in Burkina Faso and health risk assessment

Diet based on cereal, vegetables, oleaginous and dried fish are providing essential metallic elements. It can be also a source of exposure to toxic metallic elements. The aims of this study were to evaluate the contents on nine metallic trace elements (Fe, Zn, Mn, Co, Cd, Pb, Cu, Ni, Cr) in some major raw foodstuffs including rice, maize, peanut, tomato and dried fish in Burkina Faso and assess the health risk of these elements. Two hundred twenty-two samples were collected and analyzed by atomic absorption spectrometry. The health risk assessment was based on the United States Environment Protection Agency (USEPA) model. Iron and Zinc were the elements with the highest concentrations in the investigated foodstuffs. The iron highest median value (68.80 mg/kg) was observed in dried fish followed by maize (43.09 mg/kg) and peanuts (28.92 mg/kg). Rates of 77.95%, 66.66% and 32.5% obtained respectively fro tomato, maize and rice samples were above the maximum limit of lead set by Codex Alimentarius while 47.6%, 71.16% and 0% of maize, tomato and rice samples respectively have shown concentration above the maximum limit of cadmium. Chromium had shown higher contribution rate to the maximum daily intake of 167.11%, 34%, 2% and 8.53% for rice, maize and peanut respectively. A non-cancer risk situation has been observed on rice, maize and peanut consumption. None of the index risk values was above the threshold set by USEPA.

Human exposure to toxic elements through facial cosmetic products: Dermal risk assessment

Facial cosmetics are the most commonly consumed product, mainly by the women from all over the world irrespective of their age. The facial cosmetics may be contaminated with several toxic elements, which can get absorb on to the facial skin and migrate to the blood vessels. Hence the absorbed toxic elements can cause further adverse effects on the human body. The present study aims to assess the toxic element contents (arsenic, lead, nickel, mercury, and cadmium) in commonly consumed facial cosmetics (face powder, foundation, lightening creams, moisturizer, eye shadow, lipsticks, eyeliner, blush, mascara, sunscreen) and to carry out the risk assessment through different methods. The dermal risk was evaluated as SED, NOAEL, MoS, HQ and ILCR, which is linked with the exposure of selected toxic elements. The total CDDE for all selected elements in facial cosmetic products was found in increasing order as follow: face powder > foundation > lightening creams > moisturizer > eye shadow > lipsticks > eyeliner > blush > mascara > sunscreen. The HQ and HI values for selected elements were found to be < 1 in all facial cosmetics. Whereas the probable MoS of selected toxic elements in all facial cosmetics except eyeliner were found to be 3-4 folds lower than the minimum value of 100 regulated by the WHO.

Determination of potentially toxic metals in depilatory products in the Iranian markets: human health risk assessment

This study aimed to investigate the concentrations of heavy metals, including lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), zinc (Zn), cobalt (Co), and arsenic metalloid (As), to assess their health risks in the popular depilatory products of the Iranian markets. Twenty-one samples of 7 popular brands of depilatory products, inclusive of cream and powder, were examined. Selected elements were measured by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) using the appropriate procedure for acid digestion and the measurement of heavy metal contents. The differences in heavy metal concentrations were investigated according to the type of product, brand, country of production, and product price using t test and one-way analysis of variance and post hoc Tukey test. Finally, carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risk assessments were calculated for the studied elements. The results showed that Pb (5.46±2.30 mg/kg) and Co (0.16±0.69 mg/kg) had the highest and lowest concentrations in these products, respectively. In general, the concentration of heavy metals in depilatory creams was less than the concentration of elements in depilatory powders and less than the maximum allowable limits as defined by the Institute of Standards and Industrial Research of Iran (ISIRI). There was a direct and significant relationship between the concentration of heavy metals in depilatory powders and the product's price. Moreover, the amount of As in one of the brands of depilatory powder was determined to exceed the standard value (2 mg/kg). Also, hazard index (HI) and lifetime cancer risk (LCR) were below 1 and 10-6, respectively, which indicated that this mentioned heavy metal had no probable non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks for consumers. According to this study, it was evident that the chances of cancer and non-cancer risk using depilatory products were unlikely, but continuous use can be harmful due to the excessive accumulation of these heavy metals.

Heavy Metals and Human Health: Possible Exposure Pathways and the Competition for Protein Binding Sites

Heavy metals enter the human body through the gastrointestinal tract, skin, or via inhalation. Toxic metals have proven to be a major threat to human health, mostly because of their ability to cause membrane and DNA damage, and to perturb protein function and enzyme activity. These metals disturb native proteins’ functions by binding to free thiols or other functional groups, catalyzing the oxidation of amino acid side chains, perturbing protein folding, and/or displacing essential metal ions in enzymes. The review shows the physiological and biochemical effects of selected toxic metals interactions with proteins and enzymes. As environmental contamination by heavy metals is one of the most significant global problems, some detoxification strategies are also mentioned.

Natural and Conventional Cosmetics-Mercury Exposure Assessment

Mercury (Hg) can enter the human body through the respiratory tract and digestive system, but also through the skin. Sources of Hg in the environment can be natural processes, but also human activities, including agriculture, chemical, and pharmaceutical industries. Hg can also enter the body through food, but also with cosmetics that are used for a long time. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the Hg content in 268 randomly selected cosmetics: Natural and conventional, for face and body. Hg content was determined using an atomic absorption spectrometer (AMA 254, Leco, Prague, Czech Republic). It was shown that the face preparations were characterized by a significantly higher Hg content than the body preparations. No differences in the content of the tested element were found between natural and conventional preparations. Hg could be detected in all samples with concentrations measured from 0.348 to 37.768 µg/kg.

The Determination of Toxic Metals in some Traditional Cosmetic Products and Health Risk Assessment

In present study, the levels of some toxic elements in 19 different home-made cosmetic products (spray hair dye, henna, tattoo, eyeliner, eye mascara, smear, lip moisturizer, and lipstick) were analyzed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometric (ICP-MS) after microwave digestion. The ICP-MS results were verified by the analyzing certificated reference material (EnviroMAT Drinking Water, High).The detection limit (LOD) was set from 0.1 to 0.2 and the quantification limit (LOQ) from 0.2 to 0.8 μg L^-1 and the recoveries estimated from 99% to 109%. The relative standard deviation (RSD) (%) for elements was determined in the range of 0.9 and 2.1%. Although various concentrations of arsenic (As),cadmium (Cd), cobalt (Co), chromium (Cr), cupper (Cu), and nickel (Ni) were determined in some samples, lead (Pb) concentration was found in all the samples. Data obtained were compared with the permissible limit of cosmetic products by the WHO. The concentration of Pb in smear samples was higher than the permitted limit created by the WHO, and Ni concentration in the some samples exceeds the limit set by the WHO. The rank order of toxic elements based on THQ index was Cr > Pb > Ni. The potential non-carcinogenic was considerably lower than the safe risk limits (THQ > 1).

Analysis of Mercury in Skin Lightening Cream by Microwave Plasma Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (MP-AES)

This research aimed at developing an analysis method, which was optimized and validated to determine the content of mercury in skin lightening cream discovered in the market in Bandar Lampung, Indonesia, through the use of microwave plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (MP-AES). The optimization on the analysis method was conducted on pump rate, viewing position, and reductant concentration in order to obtain the highest mercury emission intensity, while the solution stability was optimized to know the stability of mercury in the solution. The result showed that the method developed had precision with a relative standard deviation of 2.67%, recovery value of 92.78%, and linearity with an r value of 0.993, respectively. The sensitivity of the instrument detection had a limit of analysis method detection and quantification of 0.59 and 1.98 µg/L, respectively. The results of the test of the lightening cream (8 of 16 samples) positively contained mercury in the range of 422.61–44,960.79 ng/g. Therefore the method of analysis developed may be used for routine analysis of chemicals in any cosmetics products.

Investigation and probabilistic health risk assessment of trace elements in good sale lip cosmetics crawled by Python from Chinese e-commerce market

A growing body of evidence suggests that the lip products are polluted by heavy metals, which would inevitably cause safety problems with long-term exposure, but few studies have focused on their deeper health risk assessments. This study sets out to identify the lip cosmetics in good sale from Chinese e-commerce market utilizing Python crawler and then explore the probabilistic health risks caused by 6 trace elements in 34 most popular lip cosmetics with Monte Carlo simulation. The results found that there was no obvious non-carcinogenic risk to humans. As for high users, the carcinogenic risk levels of Cr exceeded the acceptable risk recommended by USEPA, approximately 10% and 25% for lipsticks and lip glosses, respectively. Cr was regarded as the priority metal for risk control in the present study. Finally, it was recommended that the minimum use period limit for using up one lip product ranged from 0.54 months to 5.74 months. Overall, this study appears to be the first to conduct a probabilistic health risk assessment of trace elements in lip products, which would be of significance for policy makers to take effective strategies to minimize exposure health risk and contamination.

Electrochemical Behaviour of Real-Time Sensor for Determination Mercury in Cosmetic Products Based on PANI/MWCNTs/AuNPs/ITO

Mercury is a common ingredient found in skin lightening soaps, creams, and makeup-cleansing products. It may cause skin rashes, skin discolouration, and scarring, as well as a reduction in the skin’s resistance to bacterial and fungal infections. By looking at this scenario, developing a sensor that involved a simple procedure and fasts for real-time detection without affecting mercury sensitivity is urgently needed. For that reason, a fast and sensitive electrochemical method was developed to determine mercury in cosmetic products with the composition of polyaniline/multi-walled carbon nanotubes/gold nanoparticles/indium tin oxide sheet using methylene blue as a redox indicator. The significantly enhanced electrochemical performance was observed using cyclic voltammetry (CV) and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV). In order to detect mercury qualitatively and quantitatively, deposition potential and deposition time were respectively optimised to be 0.10 V and 70 s. The modified sensor was revealed a wide detection range of mercury from 0.01 to 10.00 ppm with a limit of detection of 0.08 ppm. The modified sensor towards mercury with a correlation coefficient (r2) was of 0.9948. Multiple cycling, reproducibility, and consistency of different modified sensors were investigated to verify the modified sensor’s performance. The developed sensing platform was highly selective toward mercury among the pool of possible interferents, and the stability of the developed sensor was ensured for at least 21 days after 10 repeated uses. The proposed method is a fast and simple procedure technique for analysing the mercury levels in cosmetic products.

A comprehensive risk assessment of toxic elements in international brands of face foundation powders

Despite the COVID-19 pandemic and wearing masks in many countries, women are keen on elegance, beauty and the use of face foundations. Assessment of health risks associated with the regular use of face foundation by females is dynamic due to the emerging products. The most common international 14 brands of face foundation powders were collected and the concentrations of different elements (Ag, Al, As, B, Ba, Be, Ca, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, K, Li, Mg, Mn, Mo, Na, P, Pb, Sb, Se, Sn, V and Zn) in each sample were determined. A combined approach merging the conventional and computational tools was used for investigating the risk of exposure to toxic elements. Monte Carlo simulations were applied to calculate risks associated with twenty elements. We attempted different probability distribution functions for concentrations because the actual distribution functions are not known, and the only data available are the mean value and standard deviation of concentrations obtained from experiment. Our results indicate that the total non-carcinogenic health risk through exposure to different elements (Hazardous Index, HI) does not strongly depend on the choice of the probability distribution function for the concentrations. We also show that taking into account probability distributions of other variables and parameters such as body weight, exposed skin area, skin adhesion, etc. does not significantly change the main result rather just slightly broadening the final Hazardous Index distribution function. We found that calculated HI is well below unity for all considered samples, i.e., the dermal exposure to toxic elements in the considered facial powders is negligible and the considered face foundation powders are quite safe to use.

Health risk assessment of heavy metals and strontium in groundwater used for drinking and cooking in 58 villages of Prakasam district, Andhra Pradesh, India

Groundwater is one of the most important sources of water for drinking and cooking in rural India. A total of 382 groundwater samples were collected from 58 villages and analyzed for HMs and Sr by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer. The average concentrations of HMs and Sr in water was in the order of strontium (Sr) > arsenic (As) > chromium (Cr) > lead (Pb) > mercury (Hg) > cadmium (Cd). Out of 58 villages, 21, 37, 35, 35, 35 and 39 villages had Cr, As, Cd, Hg, Pb and Sr higher (WHO limit) than their respectively permissible levels. Health risk assessment of HMs and Sr for humans revealed that the non-carcinogenicity hazard quotients (HQ_i+d) for HMs and Sr were higher than unity for adult and children. The hazard index (HI) was 531.066 for adult and 902.926 for children. The HI > 1 was observed in 45 villages for adults and 56 villages for children. The lifetime cancer risk in adult for As_i, As_d, and Pb_i in 36, 25 and 23 villages, whereas in children was 42, 20 and 22 villages, respectively. In conclusion, the health risks arising from consumption of groundwater containing HMs and Sr indicated that there is a significant carcinogenic risks for adult and children. This is the first attempt to provide information on the health risks of Sr in drinking water in India. The present findings can be useful for the development of potential strategies for risk control and management.

Zinc ameliorates lead toxicity by reducing body Pb burden and restoring Pb-induced haematological and biochemical derangements

Background:

Studies on nutritional factors, including zinc in ameliorating the deleterious effects of potentially toxic elements have been scarce and the findings have been inconsistent.

Aim:

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the ameliorative potential of zinc against lead-induced toxicity in rats.

Materials and methods:

Male albino rats (n = 24) assigned into four groups of six/group: normal control (NC), zinc control (ZnC; 20 mg/kg ZnCl2), lead control (PbC; 50 mg/kg PbCl2) and lead plus zinc (Pb + Zn; 50 mg/kg PbCl2plus 20 mg/kg ZnCl2), respectively were investigated. All administrations were through oral route and lasted for 42 days after which blood samples were collected for haematological and biochemical analyses using standard techniques.

Results:

Results showed that packed cell volume (PCV), haemoglobin concentration (HBC), red blood cell count (RBC) were significant (p < 0.05) reduced while total white blood cell count (TWBC), mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) and platelets were significantly elevated in PbC group in comparison with NC and ZnC. Also liver and renal function parameters as well as the liver and kidney malondialdehyde (MDA) were elevated while antioxidant enzymes; catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were significantly (p < 0.05) reduced in PbC group in comparison with NC and ZnC. Concentrations of lead were in the order: blood > liver > kidney in the PbC group. In addition to restoration of the altered parameters, administration of zinc in Pb + Zn group significantly reduced the raised lead concentrations in the plasma and organs.

Conclusion:

Reduction in body Pb burden and restoration of Pb-induced derangements in haematological and biochemical parameters by Zn strongly support the ameliorative property of Zn against Pb-induced toxicity.