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16.10.2020 - Cosmetics

Heavy Metal Contaminants in Cosmetic Products

Some heavy metals are listed in Annex II (list of substances prohibited in cosmetic products) of the EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC Regulation No. 1223/2009). Accordingly, the substances in Annex II may only be present in cosmetics in technically unavoidable and harmless amounts.

Especially in cosmetic products that contain a high proportion of inorganic or mineral components, such as powder and cream products, decorative cosmetics, and toothpastes, potential heavy metal contamination is expected. These include compounds like arsenic, antimony, lead, cadmium, and mercury.

To obtain representative benchmarks for determining technically unavoidable heavy metal content in cosmetics, the German Federal Office of Consumer Protection and Food Safety (BVL) has established maximum levels for these metals as recommendations as part of an extensive monitoring program. These values are currently used as the state of the art for assessing cosmetic products, even by authorities. Nevertheless, manufacturers are urged to engage in responsible raw material selection and good manufacturing practices in the interest of preventive health consumer protection to achieve a reduction in heavy metal content.

The BAV Institute, part of the international Tentamus Laboratory Group, tests both finished products and cosmetic raw materials for heavy metal content. We are also happy to advise you on regulatory issues in this regard. Our customer advisors look forward to your call.

You can find the document on technically unavoidable levels of heavy metals in cosmetic products here.

For questions, our customer advisors are happy to assist you.