Toxic Elements Concentrations in Costume makeup used by Brazilian Children

Abstract

Background. Some metallic-based pigments used as dyes in color cosmetics, like face paints, may contain toxic elements. This costume makeup can be used by adults but is also applied to children, mainly in Carnival or child parties. During the use, different levels of exposure are possible, including dermal and incidental oral routes. Objective: to determine As, Cd, Pb and Sb concentrations in face paints sold in popular stores for children’s use. Methods. 95 samples of “face paints” were purchased at the largest popular trade center of the city of São Paulo, Brazil. Face paints from four different brands in different textures and colors were purchased. Extraction procedure with nitric acid was carried out using a graphite covered digester block. The toxic elements determinations were performed using an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (ICP-MS). Results The geometric means were: 0.09 mg/L (0.011-1.69) for As; 0.003 mg/L (0.000004-0.4) for Cd; 0.22mg/L (0.010-11.69) for Pb; 0.009 mg/L (0.0002-2.65) for Sb. One sample exceeded the 10ppm limit for Pb in cosmetics stated by Canada and U.S. Twenty two samples exceeded the As, Cd, Pb or Sb limits of German legislation which is more stringent. White, blue and purple colors showed the highest Pb and Cd values, while lilac, brown and white showed the highest As values. The creamy samples and the professional pancakes had higher Cd and Pb values (p<0.0001). For As, the highest concentrations were in pancake and liquid samples (p<0.0001), the latter also had higher Sb values (p<0.02). Conclusion. Concerns of contaminated cosmetics are becoming commonplace in the beauty market, however limits for metals impurities in these products are rare, and in many countries, this regulation does not even exist. Studies with costume makeup are needed to assess health risks, considering the use both for adults and children. Funded by FAPESP (Grant:2016/11087-8).