How to tell if cosmetics contain lead and mercury

Mondo Fashionable Updated on 2024-01-19

To determine whether cosmetics contain lead and mercury, the following methods can be taken:

Observe the color of the makeup. In general, cosmetics containing lead and mercury will be more vivid in color, such as red, orange, purple, etc. Some natural cosmetics, such as colorless, transparent or yellowish products, usually do not contain lead or mercury.

Observe the texture of the cosmetics. Cosmetics containing lead and mercury are usually stickier and less likely to peel off, while natural cosmetics are more refreshing and easy to apply.

Observe the smell of cosmetics. Cosmetics containing lead and mercury usually have a strong fragrance, while natural cosmetics usually have only a light fragrance.

Test using pH test strips. Human skin is weakly acidic, and cosmetics containing lead and mercury are usually alkaline, and if the pH value is greater than 7 when tested with pH test strips, the cosmetic may contain lead and mercury.

Tested with silver jewelry. Apply an appropriate amount of cosmetics to the silver jewelry, if the silver jewelry turns black, it means that the cosmetics may contain lead and mercury.

Use clean water for testing. Pour a small amount of emulsion into the water, if the emulsion floats on the water, it means that it contains oleoleoester;If the lotion sticks to the cup, it means that the main ingredient of the skincare product is mineral oil;If the lotion sinks to the bottom of the glass, it means that the main ingredient of the skincare product is heavy metals.

Use iodine to test for antioxidants. Apply an appropriate amount of makeup to a white paper, wait for it to penetrate on the paper, and scratch back and forth with the façade of the coin, if there is no change, you can preliminarily indicate that it does not contain lead and mercury.

Purchase lead mercury test strips for later use. This method is the most straightforward and effective, but requires the purchase of specialized test strips, which are relatively high.

In short, when choosing cosmetics, be sure to choose formal channels to buy, and at the same time pay attention to the color, texture, smell, etc. of the product, and conduct some simple tests as much as possible to ensure the safety of the product. If you have any doubts about certain products, it is advisable to consult a professional or an authoritative organization.

Autumn and Winter Check-in Challenge

Related Pages