ABSTRACT
context: Lipstick is a universal cosmetic, and it can be colored and textured in different ways. It has a fatty base that spreads easily to the surface. They are applied on a sensitive surface of the human body and finally ingested via skin, hence they must be made to the highest safety specifications. Presently, most of the women and adolescent using lipstick in their daily routine to enhance their beauty. aims: In present study, an attempt has been made to determine the concentration of lead, nickel, and cobalt in lipstick samples. materials and method: The lipstick samples were purchased from online and local markets. The concentration of heavy metals in the samples were determined using ICP-OES. results: The levels of heavy metals in the sample brands were found to be significant. The results obtained in the study has been alarming specially in case of lead, which was found to be as high as 15ppm, nickel 5ppm and cobalt 5ppm in different brands. conclusions: The application of lipstick with excessive high content of heavy metals leads to serious health hazards and hence be used judiciously. key messages: The long term usage of lipstick containing the harmful heavy metals above the stipulated quantity poses a high health risk to users and hence should be used judiciously