Arsenic-containing lipstick discovered in Manila

An environmental group has discovered lipsticks containing chemicals and heavy metals in the Philippine capital city of Manila.

The EcoWaste coalition, an Asia-based environmental watchdog, used chemical analysis to discover that 13 out of 45 lipstick tested contained hazardous chemicals such as lead, arsenic or mercury.

Many of the brands, which included Baolishi, Ling Mei, and Miss Beauty, were originally manufactured in China.

Heavy metals like mercury and arsenic are believed to be capable of causing birth defects, as well as other health problems such as neurological disorders, scarring and skin conditions.

Statement

Aileen Lucero, Acting National Coordinator of the EcoWaste Coalition, said:“Arsenic, lead and mercury are some of the chemicals of high concern that should be eliminated from usage, especially in consumer products, to prevent and reduce their adverse effects on human health and the environment.”

“Pregnant or lactating women may expose developing foetuses and infants to the risk of toxic metal poisoning when they use these tainted products.”