Philippine E-Journals

Chemical Analysis of Heavy Metals in Organic, Counterfeit and Local Brand Lipsticks Using Hydride Vapor Generation Technique –Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

Jenyl Alyanna Daileg | Christine Joy De Ocampo | Charles Darcy Domingo | Mariel Isabelle Guerrero | Khristine Gil Torres | Aldrin Jan M Agra

 

Abstract:

Cosmetics are noted for the most part as significant in liberating heavy metals into the human biological system. Heavy metal impurities in cosmetic products, whether it is an organic, a local brand or counterfeit, are unavoidable because of the ubiquitous nature of these elements. Moreover, it has been a subject of research that high doses of heavy metals can be fatal, and that even long-term exposure to low levels of heavy metals can cause certain types cancer and health risks. In this study, researchers aim to evaluate the concentration of heavy metals present in organic, counterfeit, and local brand lipstick. Carefully selected organic, local and counterfeit brand lipsticks procured at different prices were analyzed through acid digestion and quantitation by Hydride Vapor Generation Technique - Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). Based on the results obtained, concentration of heavy metals yielded in Samples A, B and C passed the permissible limits based on the ASEAN Guidelines on Limits of Contaminants for Cosmetics. Sample A (Organic) has the least traces of heavy metals, and Sample D (Counterfeit) contained the highest level of heavy metals among the four samples. Researchers would like to elevate the responsiveness of private and government health sectors as cosmetic products must be thoroughly evaluated for their safety prior to marketing. Moreover, consumers must be cautious in selecting the products they use, and must be aware of the health risks they may pose.