Determination of heavy metals in cosmetic products

Author

Moyo, S. M.

Title

Determination of heavy metals in cosmetic products

Abstract

Owing to the contrived nature of cosmetic products available on market in the third world, Zimbabwe not an exception, the spurious cosmetics are sold under the guise of renowned brand names open markets and supermarkets. These are contaminated with heavy metals. This study aimed at investigating the levels of lead, cadmium, chromium and nickel in selected cosmetic products using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy. It further evaluated the risk posed by the products on human health. The highest lead levels were observed in lotions while the lowest were in whitening creams. In all the tested samples, chromium and cadmium levels were below 1 mg/kg. Whitening creams recorded the highest levels of nickel compared to the other tested cosmetic products. Lotions exhibited the highest systemic exposure dose across all metals in general compared to other products. In whitening creams, lead and nickel had higher values compared to chromium and cadmium. Lotion generally exhibited high values of hazard quotient and hazard index relative to the whitening creams and face powder across all the evaluated metals indicating a threat to human health is posed by lotions. In summation, continued use of contaminated cosmetics results in their accumulation in tissues ultimately leading to health complications

Date

2024

Publisher

BUSE

Keywords

heavy metals

cosmetic products

Supervisor

Dr Munzeiwa