When you treat yourself to a new lipstick you probably choose it based on the colour, the price, or maybe even the brand. But do you think about the lead content?

In October 2007, the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics released an alarming report about the lead content of lipsticks. The report found that more than half of the brand-name lipsticks tested contained detectable levels of lead, although none of the lipsticks listed lead as an ingredient. LʹOreal’s Colour Riche True Red tops the bill for including lead at 0.65 ppm, but even some ‘natural’ brands like Burt’s Bees had detectable lead content.

What are the effects of lead on our health?

Lead has a negative effect on our nervous system, as well as the ability to to cause renal and cardiovascular diseases. The reason why we should avoid even small concentrations of lead is that lead does not break down in the body but accumulates over time. Even small amounts of lead can add up to a harmful concentration.

From the “A Poison Kiss” report:

Exposure to lead can cause learning, language and behavioral problems such as lowered IQ, impulsiveness, reduced school performance, increased aggression, seizures and brain damage, anemia, and, after long exposure, damage to the kidneys. Lead has also been linked to miscarriage, reduced fertility in both men and women, hormonal changes, menstrual irregularities and delays in the onset of puberty in girls.

Pregnant women and young children exposed to lead are particularly vulnerable. Lead easily crosses the placenta and enters the fetal brain, where it interferes with normal development.

Glamour magazine’s June 2002 “Beauty Quickie Tip” repeats a commonly quoted statistic, “Women inadvertently (but harmlessly) eat about 4 lbs of lipstick” in a lifetime. But the latest science shows that no level of lead is “harmless.”

Where can I buy lead free lipstick?

You’re probably safest opting for a certified organic lipstick, and fortunately there are a few brands available these days that fit the bill. Try Lavera, Green People or Nvey certified organic lipsticks.