Lead Based Hair Products: Too Hazardous for Household Use - Abstract

Some hair coloring products sold in pharmacies contain more lead than paint, making them a public health hazard.

by Howard W. Mielke, PhD, Myiesha D. Taylor, Chris R. Gonzales, M. Kelley Smith, Pamela V. Daniels, and Ayanna V.Buckner.

  1.   Abstract
  2.   Introduction
  3.   Methods and Materials
  4.   Results
  5.   Discussion
  6.   Hazards of Lead Acetate
  7.   Prevention and Lead Toxicology
  8.   Alternative Hair Coloring Products
  9.   Acknowledgements and References

Abstract

Research objective. To measure the amount of lead in lead-based hair coloring cosmetics, and to review the bioavailability of the chemical form of lead in these cosmetics. To evaluate the hand-to-mouth route of exposure when using lead-based hair coloring cosmetics according to manufacturers' instructions.

Methods. Lead was extracted from lead-based and organic-based hair coloring cosmetics using Trace Metal Grade HNO3 and microwave digestion. Hand and surface wipes were collected with pretreated towelettes. All cosmetic products and wipe samples were analyzed for lead with an Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrometer (ICP-AES).

Results. Hair dyes formulated with lead acetate contained between 2,300 and 6,000 mcg of lead per gram. When used as directed, the products coated hands with between 150 and 700 mcg of lead per hand. Lead residue on surfaces that came into contact with these products often exceeded 100 mcg of lead per square foot. These are hazardous quantities of lead.

Conclusion. Hair dyes containing lead acetate are sold in pharmacies nationwide. Lead-based hair coloring cosmetics demonstrate a high potential for hand-to-mouth and hand-to-surface transfer of lead. To prevent lead exposure in children, all products that contain lead should be evaluated. In the best interests of consumers, hair coloring agents containing lead acetate should be removed from the shelves of stores.

Howard W. Mielke, PhD, is associate professor of environmental toxicology at the College of Pharmacy, Xavier University of Louisiana, New Orleans, La. Myiesha D. Taylor, BS, is a Xavier University graduate currently attending the University of Southern California. Chris R. Gonzales, MS, M. Kelley Smith, BS, Pamela V. Daniels, BA, and Ayanna V. Buckner are research assistants at Xavier University College of Pharmacy.

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Published in Journal of American Pharmaceutical Association (NS37, Jan/Feb 1997:85-89).  Copied 2 October 1997 from http://www.aphanet.org/APhA/hair.html
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