The FDA recently tested lipsticks for lead content and found that all 400 lipsticks tested (all of which are sold in the US) contained lead. The FDA assured that the levels of lead present were safe if used as intended, but people are angry, claiming that there is no safe level.The levels found in the lipsticks were much higher than the limit for lead in candy. While people don't eat lipstick like they eat candy, it certainly adds up over a lifetime of lipstick applications. And although the 4 pounds of lipstick consumed throughout a lifetime seems to be a myth, I imagine that number is not far from the truth.
I certainly believe that much of the lipstick (or gloss, or chapstick) applied is eventually consumed. The fact that the legal levels have a significant difference for candy and lipstick is surprising. I wonder if purchasing a certain type (like all organic or natural) lipstick would partially solve this problem?
ReplyDeleteSara suggests a good point of looking into organic/natural lipsticks to possibly find a healthier alternative. I also wonder how the levels of lead vary between lipsticks, lipglosses, and chapsticks.
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