Heavy metals in cosmetic products arise especially from raw materials and dyes used for color and brightness.
Especially cosmetics such as nail polish, lipstick, mascara, eye shadow, foundation, hair dye pose a greater risk in terms of heavy metals. Cosmetics with glitter and vibrant colors are therefore included in the product group that must be checked for heavy metal risk.
In the "Guide on Heavy Metal Impurities in Cosmetic Products", which heavy metals should not be present in cosmetic products and their limits are defined.
Lead: 20 ppm, Arsenic: 5 ppm, Cadmium: 5 ppm, Mercury 1 ppm, Antimony 10 ppm.
For toothpastes, acceptable limit values are lower:
Lead: 1 ppm, Arsenic: 0.5 ppm, Cadmium: 0.1 ppm, Mercury 0.2 ppm, Antimony: 0.5 ppm.