Avoid Lead in Lipstick

Reports of lead in children's toys have alarmed parents nationwide, and now women are dealing with a new lead danger in their cosmetics.

According to recent news reports, lab tests of lipsticks confirm that about 30% of them contain higher levels of lead than the FDA permits in candy. Given that lipstick rests on our lips--and probably gets consumed when we eat, drink or lick our lips--some folks are concerned about the health ramifications of this news.

But is this really an issue?

Representatives of the cosmetic industry have issued statements to the press that are designed to reassure the public. They're correct when they state that other things we consume--even our water--contains a certain amount of lead, too.

Nonetheless, it doesn't make sense to use cosmetics that contain lead, especially if, over time, the cumulative effects of lead can cause health problems.

One of the best--and easiest--ways to avoid lead in your cosmetics is to simply opt for "all natural" versions. Keep in mind, not all "natural" makeup is free of chemicals, preservatives and additives. Always check the ingredient list of the product to ensure you're getting a healthy, chemical-free cosmetic.

Some suggested brands are:

The Organic Makeup Company: The ingredient list on their lipsticks is castor oil, iron oxides, micas, organic palm oil, shea butter, candellila wax, organic jojoba oil, d-alpha tocopherol, carnauba wax, and natural fragrance.

Burt's Bees: The company's Lip Shimmers contain sunflower oil, castor oil, beeswax, candelilla wax, lanolin, cocoa butter, tocopheryl acetate & tocopherol (vitamin E), peppermint oil, carnauba wax, comfrey root extract, and rosemary extract.

Aubrey Organics: Natural coloring is used in this lipstick, as well as these ingredients: essential fatty acid base, sunflower oil, organic jojoba oil, jojoba butter, jojoba wax, PABA, african butter, vitamin E and peppermint.