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Recently the Executive Vice President of the Science Cosmetic, Toiletry, and Fragrance Association issued a statement against lead in cosmetics such as lipstick.

“Despite continuous allegations over the years, lead is not intentionally added to cosmetics. Lead is a naturally occurring element that is found everywhere in the environment. Consumers are exposed daily to lead when they eat, drink water and breathe the air. The average amount of lead a woman would be exposed to when using cosmetics is 1,000 times less than the amount she would get from eating, breathing, and drinking water that meets Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) drinking water standards.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has also addressed the issue of safe cosmetics and posted these tips on their Web site, www.fda.gov/womens/getthefacts/cosmetics.html.

* Follow directions on the label carefully, including all “Cautions” and “Warnings.”
* Keep makeup closed tight when not in use.
* Wash your hands before you put on makeup.
* Do not put on makeup while you are driving.
* Do not share makeup with anyone else.
* Do not add liquid to makeup.
* Stop using a product if you get a rash or other problem where you are using it.
* Throw away makeup if the color changes.
* Throw away makeup if it gets an odor.
* Be extra careful not to keep mascara too long. Some companies say three months is long enough.
* Do not use eye makeup if you have an eye infection. Throw away eye makeup you were using when you got the infection.
* Keep makeup out of the sun.
* Do not use spray cans while you are smoking or near a source of heat. It could also cause a fire.

If you have a problem or complaint with a cosmetic that you have purchased, contact the FDA.