Determination of heavy metals in some cosmetics available in locally markets

Abstract

It has been shown that heavy metals toxicity to humans is as a result of long term or high level exposure to pollutants common in the environment including the air, water, food and numerous consumer products such as the cosmetics and toiletries. In this study, we assessed the levels of toxic metals in different cosmetic products sold at local shops in Baghdad. The cosmetic items included Eye Shadow. These items were purchased from various shops at different locations in Baghdad. The cosmetics were analyzed for heavy metals (Copper, cadmium, lead, and nickel) after digestion with concentrated acids HNO3: HCl in ratio 1:3. The concentrations of the selected toxic heavy metals were determined in duplicate using aflame atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The samples analyzed contained a detectable amount of the metals of interest. The concentration of the heavy metals in the samples ranged from 0.092 to 25.57 ppm. It is obvious from the present study that the use of some cosmetic products exposes users to low concentrations of toxic heavy metals which could constitute potential health risk to users since it has been known that heavy metals can accumulate in the biological system over time and are known to induce skin problems or diseases such as cancer. Further research to better understand the sources of heavy metals in cosmetic product is recommended.