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Assessment of volatile organic compounds and heavy metals concentrations in some Nigerian-made cosmetics

L.Azeez, M.D.Adeoye, A.T.Lawal, Z.A.Idris, T.A.Majolagbe, B.K.O.Agbaogun, M.A.Olaogun

This study assessed concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and heavy metals in twelve (12) cosmetic products: medicated powder; talcum powder brands 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, lipstick bands 1, 2, 3 and nail paint brands 1, 2 and 3 manufactured in Nigeria. Except nail paints 1, 2 and 3 which were acidic, other products were alkaline. None of themhad the pH suitable for skin suggesting that they could significantly affect the functions of the skin. Fe, Zn, Cu, Cr, Cd and Pb were present in the products. Their presence especially Cr, Cd and Pb which have no biological uses raises questions about the safety of the products. Formaldehyde, toluene, trichloroethene and tetrachloroethenewere all present in the cosmetic products analyzed. High concentrations of formaldehyde and toluene especially in the lipsticks and nail paints call for concern because they are carcinogenic and neurotoxic. There is need to have standards for heavy metals and VOCs in cosmetic products to ascertain their safety.