As a part of FDA’s overall mission to protect public health, the agency undertook a project to determine levels of lead in lipstick and in a variety of other cosmetics.

Lead occurs naturally in the environment, and its occurrence, as an impurity, in cosmetic products can’t be avoided. FDA has taken action whenever necessary to remove products from the market that contain lead at unsafe levels.

In December 2016, FDA issued draft guidance to industry on lead as an impurity in cosmetic lip products, such as lipsticks, and other cosmetics, such as eye shadows, blushes, compact powders, shampoos, and body lotions. Our guidance recommends a maximum level of lead in cosmetic products.