HEAVY METALS IN COSMETICS: A REVIEW OF THEIR IMPACT AND RISKS
Deepthi P. V.
Department of Chemistry, Nehru Arts and Science College,
Kannur University, Kanhangad – 671314, Kerala, India.
ABSTRACT: Global consumption of cosmetics has increased due to unrealistic beauty standards, which has caused a corresponding increase in the manufacturing of cosmetics. This causes a spike in the use of heavy metals added to cosmetics. The heavy metals lead, mercury, arsenic, cadmium, cobalt, and nickel, are commonly utilized in the production of cosmetics and personal hygiene products. The detrimental consequences of heavy metals differ based on a number of variables, including exposure duration and dose. The primary concerns in a wide range of issues include carcinogenicity, neurotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, lung damage, dermatitis, cardiovascular disorders, renal dysfunction, and endocrine, developmental, and reproductive disorders. These shed light on the harmful consequences on the ecosystem’s diverse flora and fauna. This review aims to investigate the impacts of heavy metals on the environment, the harm they can do to human health, and the significance of mitigating these effects. Heavy metal poisoning events can be avoided by enforcing stricter norms, prohibiting dangerous compounds, and ensuring compliance with regulations.
KEYWORDS: Cosmetics, Heavy Metals, Health Risk, Toxicity.