Abstract

Samia S. Barghash*, Hatem Abdel Moniem Ahmed and Modhi K. Al-Baker

ABSTRACT

Background: Heavy metals contamination in cosmetic products is becoming an important health problem in both worldwide and locally at the level of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA).The aim of this study was to detect the concentration of heavy metals in the most commonly used eyeliners purchased in Saudi Arabia. Also, to assess safety awareness of toxic elements of most concern heavy metals in cosmetics. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was designed and distributed electronically in Saudi Arabia in November; 2015.The questionnaire was conducted on 769 Saudi women aged from15-60 years old that is using cosmetic products. Secondly, 10 samples from 10 different types of eyeliners frequently used in Saudi Arabia were digested. The digested samples were analyzed for lead, cadmium and mercury using graphite furnace - atomic absorption spectrometry (GF-AAS). Results: The majority of cosmetic types used by participants were eye-liner "kohl" (73.9%). About (34.59 %) of participants were not aware about heavy metals contents in cosmetics. The heavy metals, cadmium, lead and mercury were detected in all samples with varying concentrations. The level of lead was the highest. There was a significant difference of cadmium, lead and mercury concentration p< (0.05) in different brands of eyeliner. There was statistically significant difference between cadmium and lead also between mercury and lead p