Ingredient guide
Lead in Lipstick
What Lead does in lipstick and how it's regulated.
About Lead
Lead is an ingredient used in cosmetics such as lipstick.
Why brands use it in lipstick
Lead is not intentionally added to most cosmetics — it is a contaminant that enters through raw materials like colorants, minerals, and water sources used in manufacturing.
Regulatory status
- US FDA: Lead acetate was banned from hair dyes in 2022. No limit for lead as a contaminant in other cosmetics. FDA set a non-binding recommended maximum of 10 ppm.
- European Union: Not permitted in cosmetics
- Canada: Restricted in cosmetics
Common alternatives
Other ingredients formulators use for a similar job in lipstick:
iron oxides (tested for heavy metal purity)
mica (tested for heavy metal purity)
titanium dioxide
plant-derived pigments
Lead in other product types
FAQ
What is Lead?
Lead is an ingredient used in cosmetics such as lipstick.
Why is Lead used in lipstick?
Lead is not intentionally added to most cosmetics — it is a contaminant that enters through raw materials like colorants, minerals, and water sources used in manufacturing.
How is Lead regulated?
Lead acetate was banned from hair dyes in 2022. No limit for lead as a contaminant in other cosmetics. FDA set a non-binding recommended maximum of 10 ppm. It is not permitted in cosmetics sold in the EU. Canada restricts its use in cosmetics.
Does Numbrrrz lip balm contain Lead?
No. Numbrrrz is organic coconut oil, organic beeswax, organic jojoba oil and vitamin E, plus organic essential oils or flavoring in the scented versions. That is a formulation choice, not a judgment about other products.
