Menu
Shop AllKitchenBabyHomeHow Toxic?Is It Safe?BlogAbout

Cart

Your cart is empty

Find something non-toxic to put in it.

Browse Products

Is Lead Safe? What You Need to Know

1/10

Safety Score

Concern Level: very-high

Lead has significant safety concerns. We recommend avoiding products containing this ingredient.

Common uses: contaminant in lipstick, hair dyes, some imported cosmetics

What Is Lead?

A toxic heavy metal found as a contaminant in some cosmetics, particularly lipsticks and hair dyes. No safe level of lead exposure exists.

Commonly found in: contaminant in lipstick, hair dyes, some imported cosmetics

Safety Research & Evidence

A toxic heavy metal found as a contaminant in some cosmetics, particularly lipsticks and hair dyes. No safe level of lead exposure exists.

Regulatory status: FDA guidance limit of 10 ppm in cosmetics; EU limit of 10 ppm

Health Concerns

neurotoxicity

Evidence: Strong

Research indicates neurotoxicity may be associated with exposure to Lead. Particularly concerning for children, pregnant women, everyone.

developmental delays

Evidence: Strong

Research indicates developmental delays may be associated with exposure to Lead. Particularly concerning for children, pregnant women, everyone.

organ damage

Evidence: Strong

Research indicates organ damage may be associated with exposure to Lead. Particularly concerning for children, pregnant women, everyone.

Vulnerable Populations

Extra caution recommended for: children, pregnant women, everyone

Safer Alternatives

AlternativeSafety Score
Iron Oxide pigments8/10

How to Avoid Lead

  1. Read ingredient labels carefully for "Lead" or its chemical synonyms
  2. Choose products with third-party certifications (EWG Verified, Made Safe)
  3. Consider alternatives like Iron Oxide pigments
  4. Check the EWG Skin Deep database for product ratings
  5. Look for "Lead-free" labels on product packaging

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Lead safe for babies?

No, we recommend avoiding Lead in products used on or around babies due to their developing systems.

What are the safest alternatives to Lead?

Safer alternatives include Iron Oxide pigments (safety score: 8/10).

Is Lead banned in other countries?

Regulatory status: FDA guidance limit of 10 ppm in cosmetics; EU limit of 10 ppm

How do I know if my product contains Lead?

Check the full ingredient list on the product label. Lead may also appear under different chemical names. Using apps like EWG Healthy Living or Think Dirty can help identify it.

Related Safety Guides

References

  1. Liu S et al. (2013). Lead in lipstick: FDA findings and public health implications PMID: 22410239