Consumer Product Testing Lab

Cinnaminson, NJ, January 25, 2017  

Last month, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) issued draft guidance to the industry on lead as an impurity in cosmetic lip products such as lipsticks as well as other cosmetics including eye shadows, blushes, compact powders, shampoos and body lotions.

The FDA has suggested that a maximum amount of 10 parts per million (ppm) of lead as an impurity be present in these cosmetics and consumer products. According to the FDA announcement, “Although most cosmetics on the market in the United States generally already contain less than 10 ppm of lead, a small number contained higher amounts, and we are aware that some cosmetics from other countries contain lead at higher levels. This makes guidance on recommended maximum lead levels all the more important as more products are imported into this country.”

Currently, there are no regulations that require cosmetic products or ingredients, other than color additives, to have FDA approval before they go on the market. Cosmetics must, however, be properly labeled and safe when used according to their directions or when used in the customary or expected way.

“A decade ago, the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics reported finding lead in some lipsticks available to the public,” reported Joseph Frasca, Senior Vice President of Marketing at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “This was the first time many people realized that they could be exposing themselves to lead through the use of cosmetic products. Although the draft guidance is not a regulation, limiting the amount of human exposure to lead is a benefit to all of society.”

EMSL Analytical, Inc., one of the nation’s largest consumer products and forensic science testing companies, provides a state-of-the-art laboratory for cosmetic testing services. Their scientists offer testing of raw materials, in-process samples and finished products for lead and other physical, chemical and microbiological quality control issues.

To learn more about lead or other testing services for cosmetics, consumer products and from environmental samples, please visit www.EMSL.com or www.ConsumerProductTesting.com, call (800) 220-3675 or email info@EMSL.com.

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.

EMSL Analytical, Inc. is one of the leading testing laboratories with over 40 locations throughout the United States and Canada. EMSL is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider specializing in fast laboratory results for mold, bacteria, Legionella, USP <797>, pathogens, asbestos, lead, soot, char & ash from fires, VOC’s, odors, radon, formaldehyde, indoor air quality, microbiology, environmental, industrial hygiene, radiological, food, beverage & consumer products and material testing services for the identification of unknown substances. EMSL services both professionals and the general public. EMSL maintains an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies including, but not limited to A2LA, AIHA LAP, LLC. (AIHA EMLAP, AIHA IHLAP, AIHA ELLAP), NVLAP, CDC ELITE, CPSC, CA ELAP, NY ELAP, TX DOH, NJDEP and multiple other state accrediting agencies. Please visit our website at www.EMSL.com for a complete listing of accreditations.  In addition, EMSL carries a wide range of Sampling Equipment and Investigative Products for environmental professionals.