You’ve probably heard about lead in lipstick, but do you really know why it’s there and what it means for your health? The truth is, lead contamination in lipsticks is more common than you might think—and it’s something worth being aware of, especially if you’re applying lipstick multiple times a day.
The Stats: Lead in Lipstick
A 2012 FDA study tested 400 popular lipsticks, and the results might surprise you. Every single lipstick tested contained trace amounts of lead. While the levels were relatively low, this still means that every time you apply your lipstick, you’re putting a tiny bit of lead on your lips.
Here’s the breakdown:
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The average amount of lead found was 1.11 parts per million (ppm).
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Some lipsticks had as much as 7.19 ppm.
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These findings were across both drugstore and high-end brands.
Although the FDA limits the amount of lead in color additives used in cosmetics, there is no specific limit set for lead in finished products. This leaves room for lead contamination to sneak through the cracks.
Why Is There Lead in Lipstick?
Lead doesn’t get added to lipstick on purpose—it’s a contaminant. But how does it end up in your favorite lip color?
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Pigments & Color Additives: Many pigments used for red, pink, and plum shades come from natural minerals or synthetic materials. These materials can be contaminated with trace amounts of lead, especially if not thoroughly tested or purified during production.
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Raw Ingredients: Common ingredients like mica, iron oxides, and titanium dioxide (used for shimmer or opacity) may contain lead if they’re sourced from areas with poor quality control or testing.
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Manufacturing Process: In some cases, the tools and equipment used in production can introduce lead into the product, especially if there are no strict regulatory standards in place for testing or oversight.
The Effects of Lead Exposure on Human Health
You might be wondering: what happens if I’m exposed to lead regularly? While it might seem like a small concern, long-term exposure to lead—even in tiny amounts—can have serious effects on health, especially when you consider how frequently lip products are used.
Lead is a neurotoxin, meaning it can damage the nervous system. Even small doses over time can build up in the body, leading to chronic exposure. Here’s how it can affect you:
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Neurological Impact: Lead exposure has been linked to cognitive impairments, memory problems, and learning difficulties. Children are particularly vulnerable, as their brains are still developing, but adults are at risk too.
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Reproductive Issues: For both men and women, long-term exposure to lead can affect fertility and reproduction.
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Kidney Damage: Chronic lead exposure can damage the kidneys over time, which may lead to kidney disease or failure.
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Increased Risk of High Blood Pressure: Lead exposure can also contribute to hypertension (high blood pressure), which is a risk factor for heart disease and stroke.
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Accumulation in the Body: Lead can build up in the bones and tissues over time. Since lipstick is applied to the lips multiple times a day, over years, that exposure adds up. The more you use it, the more lead accumulates.
How Can You Protect Yourself?
So, what can you do to avoid lead exposure in lipstick? Luckily, there are some simple steps you can take to protect yourself and ensure the beauty products you use are safer.
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Choose Brands That Are Transparent About Ingredients: Look for beauty brands that are transparent about their ingredient sourcing and manufacturing processes. Brands that test their products for impurities and heavy metals like lead are a good choice.
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Avoid Non-Certified Pigments: Only purchase lip products that use FDA-approved, lip-safe pigments. These pigments are tested and certified to be free from harmful contaminants.
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Look for Clean Beauty Labels: Clean beauty brands are generally more committed to using non-toxic ingredients. Many of these brands go the extra mile to ensure their products are free from lead and other harmful chemicals.
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Ask Questions: If you're unsure about a product, don’t be afraid to contact the brand and ask about their testing for heavy metals like lead.
Why Choose Hello Wink?
When you buy from Hello Wink, you can trust that every ingredient is carefully sourced, tested for safety, and is free from plastic and harmful contaminants. I work with reliable, eco-conscious suppliers who are as committed to product purity as I am. Every single one of my lip balms is handmade in small batches and formulated with safe, non-toxic ingredients. I believe in transparency, so if you ever have a question about the sourcing of my ingredients or how I make my products, feel free to reach out.
TL;DR: What You Need to Know About Lead in Lipstick
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Lead is a common contaminant found in many commercial lipsticks, including both drugstore and high-end brands.
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Long-term exposure to lead can lead to serious health effects like cognitive impairment, kidney damage, high blood pressure, and reproductive issues.
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To protect yourself, choose transparent, clean beauty brands that test their products for heavy metals and use safe, certified pigments.
At Hello Wink, you can feel good about your beauty routine—no harmful contaminants, no plastic, just clean, handmade, safe products that make you look and feel fabulous.
💋 Francesca
Owner + Maker, Hello Wink