ASSESSMENT OF THE PRESENCE OF LEAD IN VARIOUS HERBAL COSMETIC PRODUCTS, AND THEIR ASSOCIATED HEALTH RISKS IN POPULATION

Herbal skincare products are widely used in Pakistan, but may be contaminated with the toxic metal lead. This study aimed to assess the presence and prevalence of lead contamination in different herbal skincare products accessible in the Pakistani market, with a specific emphasis on Bahawalpur, Punjab, using an atomic absorption spectrophotometer. A total of 28 samples, including 7 facial cleansers and 19 face masks from 19 different brands, were purchased from the local market in Bahawalpur, Pakistan. The brands represented a mix of local, national, and international companies. Each 1-gram cosmetic sample was digested with a mixture of Nitric Acid (60%) and Perchloric Acid (72%) in a 3:1 ratio on a hot plate at 90-110 degrees Celsius for 1 hour using the open vessel wet digestion method. The digested samples were then analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer to quantify lead concentrations. The results of the analysis revealed concerning findings: detectable lead levels were found in all products, with several exceeding permissible limits set by international safety standards. The study compared the observed lead levels with established benchmarks and typical concentrations found in previous research, highlighting the gravity of contamination. Additionally, the study delved into the health implications arising from lead exposure, not only addressing general health concerns but also emphasizing the vulnerabilities of specific subgroups within the population. The primary objective of this research was to provide valuable information for stakeholders and raise awareness among the general public about the use of these non-regulated personal-care cosmetic products.