Critical Review on Metal‐Based Cosmetic Products

• Published in: Macromolecular symposia. Vol. 413; no. 1
• Main Authors: Sharma, Deepak Kumar, Suresh, Athira, Kumari, Rachana, Kumar, Sidhikh, Tripathy, Divya Bajpai
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Weinheim Wiley Subscription Services, Inc 01.02.2024
• Subjects: Contamination; cosmetic analysis; Cosmetics; Heavy metals; ICP‐MS; Impurities; instrumentation; Metals; Safety regulations; Standardization; toxicology
• ISSN: 1022-1360; 1521-3900
• DOI: 10.1002/masy.202200205

Most people utilize cosmetics to enhance or improve their physical appearance, regardless of their gender, race, or age. Heavy metals (HMs) are impurities or ingredients in many cosmetic products. According to recent studies, these metals can result in a variety of skin and health issues. Numerous studies demonstrate that the mismanaged formulation of such products without sufficient standardization of toxic metals throughout the production process is the primary reason for the high level of HM contamination in the samples. In order to prevent human exposure to such dangerous HMs, it is vital to monitor and manage the fate of HMs in cosmetic items, especially unbranded ones. Due to the wasteful interest of producers in making extra profit, the standards are not being imposed. Moreover, consumers are also ready to compromise with the product due to their unawareness of its hazardous impact on their skin and bodies. Short‐term results on their looks may cause fatal effects on their health. Another significant issue that requires attention is the lack of safety regulations in the country for evaluating HMs in cosmetic products. Additionally, there is an urgent need to establish acceptable limits for potential impurities in cosmetic products that must be enforced at local levels. This review provides a comprehensive insight into the content of HMs in cosmetics and their effects on several organs and the site of application.