There is startling evidence that name brand lipsticks contain lead according to a report by a consumer rights group, The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics.

33 brand name lipsticks were tested and over 60% of them contained detectable amounts of lead.

Since lipstick is put on the mouth and some of it is ingested there is obvious concern.

A somewhat shocking part of the study revealed that over one third of the name brands contained an amount of lead that exceeded the FDA's 0.1 ppm - parts per million limit for lead in candy, a measurement used to protect children that may ingest lead.

39% percent of the brands tested had no lead. This study is alarming, and of course some of the companies mentioned are not making a big deal out of it. One of the companies was reported to say that the "amount of lead from it's lip product is a hundred times less than eating, breathing and drinking water"...

While the statement is probably true, considering that lead is measured in parts PER MILLION, a hundred times less lead is not very assuring. Of course, none of the brands listed lead as an ingredient.

What's even more interesting is that some more expensive brands contained even more lead than some of the less expensives ones, so price is not a factor.

Lead exposure is very dangerous to health... especially to younger children and pregnant women. Since many women apply lipstick several times a day, long term exposure to measurable amounts of lead is a concern. According to the report "lead is a proven neurotoxin that can cause learning, language and behavioral problems such as lowered IQ, reduced school performance and increased aggression. Pregnant women and young children are particularly vulnerable to lead exposure. Lead easily crosses the placenta and enters the fetal brain where it can interfere with normal development. Lead has also been linked to infertility and miscarriage."

What were the name brands with the highest amounts of lead?

According to the report among the top brands testing positive for lead [that that exceeded the FDA's 0.1 ppm for candy] were:
-L’Oreal Colour Riche “True Red” – 0.65 ppm
-L’Oreal Colour Riche “Classic Wine” – 0.58 ppm
-Cover Girl Incredifull Lipcolor “Maximum Red” – 0.56 ppm
-Dior Addict “Positive Red” – 0.21 ppm

If you use any of the name brands mentioned or any brands with lead, this may be a good time to google organic lipsticks.

Read the press release from Campaign for Safe Cosmetics
Download the report
Read the FAQ about lead in lipsticks