Analysis Of Lead Heavy Metal Content (PB) On Several Lipsticks Used By The USU Faculty Of Public Health Students In 2018

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Analysis of Lead Heavy Metal Content (PB) on Several Lipsticks Used by the USU Faculty of Public Health Students in 2018

Introduction

Cosmetics, especially lipstick, have become an essential part of daily routines for many women, including female students. Lipstick, a solid rod-shaped lip dye, is made from ingredients such as oil, candles, and fat, facilitating use with practical roll-up designs (Wasitaatmadja, 1997). However, behind the beauty it offers, lipstick needs to be tested for safety because it may contain dangerous substances, one of which is heavy metals such as lead. Lead exposure can occur through the use of contaminated products, with the risk of entering the body through food, drinks, or skin contact. Therefore, students' understanding of the contents of the cosmetic products they use is very important to prevent adverse health impacts.

Background

The use of cosmetics, especially lipstick, has become a widespread practice among women, including female students. Lipstick is a popular cosmetic product that is used to enhance the appearance of the lips. However, the safety of lipstick has become a concern due to the presence of heavy metals such as lead. Lead is a toxic substance that can cause serious health problems, including neurological damage, developmental delays, and even death. The presence of lead in lipstick has been a topic of concern for many years, and several studies have been conducted to investigate the levels of lead in various lipstick products.

Methodology

This study aimed to analyze the lead content of lipstick used by the Faculty of Public Health of the University of North Sumatra (USU) in 2018. The study was descriptive, involving the population of all S1 students in 2015, totaling 439 people. Of these, 35 people were selected as samples for this research. Data collection was carried out through a questionnaire and laboratory testing using the atomic absorption spectropometry method (SSA). The research data is displayed in the form of tables and narratives to facilitate understanding.

Results

The results showed that of the 8 lipstick samples analyzed, the presence of lead content ranged from 0.003 mg/kg. Although the lead level still meets the standards set by the Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM), namely ≤20 mg/kg, it should be noted that lead existence remains a concern, given the long-term exposure can have a negative impact on health. The level of knowledge of students regarding lipstick and dangerous content in it turned out to be quite good, with 77.1% of them show a good understanding, while the rest has moderate knowledge (22.9%). This shows that even though they already have adequate knowledge, awareness of the risk of lead in cosmetics needs to be improved to be more careful in choosing a safe product.

Discussion

The presence of lead in lipstick is a concern due to the potential health risks associated with its use. Lead is a toxic substance that can cause serious health problems, including neurological damage, developmental delays, and even death. The level of lead in lipstick can vary depending on the type of lipstick and the ingredients used in its production. In this study, the level of lead in lipstick used by the Faculty of Public Health of the University of North Sumatra (USU) in 2018 was found to be within the acceptable limits set by the Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM). However, the presence of lead in lipstick remains a concern, given the long-term exposure can have a negative impact on health.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this study found that the level of lead in lipstick used by the Faculty of Public Health of the University of North Sumatra (USU) in 2018 was within the acceptable limits set by the Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM). However, the presence of lead in lipstick remains a concern, given the long-term exposure can have a negative impact on health. It is recommended that the Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM) provides more information about lead content in lipstick, and counseling about the dangers of heavy metals in cosmetics needs to be improved so that students and people are more careful in choosing beauty products.

Recommendations

Based on the findings of this study, the following recommendations are made:

  1. BPOM RI should provide more information about lead content in lipstick. This will help consumers make informed decisions about the products they use.
  2. Counseling about the dangers of heavy metals in cosmetics needs to be improved. This will help consumers understand the risks associated with the use of cosmetics containing heavy metals.
  3. Education about the importance of reading product labels and understanding the components contained therein will be very useful for the long-term health of consumers. This will help consumers make informed decisions about the products they use.
  4. Students are expected to make better decisions related to the selection of cosmetics, so as to avoid the potential risks that may be caused. This will help consumers make informed decisions about the products they use.

Limitations of the Study

This study has several limitations, including:

  1. The sample size was small. The study only analyzed 8 lipstick samples, which may not be representative of the larger population.
  2. The study only focused on lipstick. The study did not investigate other cosmetic products that may also contain heavy metals.
  3. The study only analyzed the lead content of lipstick. The study did not investigate other heavy metals that may be present in lipstick.

Future Research Directions

Future research should aim to investigate the levels of lead in other cosmetic products, including makeup, skincare products, and haircare products. Additionally, future research should aim to investigate the effects of long-term exposure to lead in lipstick on human health.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Lead Heavy Metal Content in Lipstick

Q: What is lead, and why is it a concern in lipstick?

A: Lead is a toxic substance that can cause serious health problems, including neurological damage, developmental delays, and even death. The presence of lead in lipstick is a concern because it can be absorbed through the skin, and long-term exposure can have a negative impact on health.

Q: How common is lead in lipstick?

A: The prevalence of lead in lipstick can vary depending on the type of lipstick and the ingredients used in its production. However, studies have shown that many lipstick products contain lead, and the levels of lead can range from very low to very high.

Q: What are the health risks associated with lead in lipstick?

A: The health risks associated with lead in lipstick include neurological damage, developmental delays, and even death. Long-term exposure to lead can also cause other health problems, such as kidney damage and reproductive issues.

Q: How can I protect myself from lead in lipstick?

A: To protect yourself from lead in lipstick, you can take the following steps:

  1. Choose lipsticks that are labeled as "lead-free" or "non-toxic."
  2. Read the ingredient list carefully and avoid lipsticks that contain lead.
  3. Use lipsticks that are made from natural ingredients and are less likely to contain lead.
  4. Avoid sharing lipsticks or using lipsticks that have been used by others.
  5. Wash your hands thoroughly after applying lipstick.

Q: Can I still use lipstick if it contains lead?

A: While it is possible to still use lipstick that contains lead, it is not recommended. The long-term exposure to lead can have a negative impact on health, and it is better to err on the side of caution.

Q: How can I check if my lipstick contains lead?

A: You can check if your lipstick contains lead by:

  1. Reading the ingredient list carefully. If the ingredient list includes lead or lead-based ingredients, it is best to avoid the product.
  2. Contacting the manufacturer. You can contact the manufacturer of the lipstick and ask if it contains lead.
  3. Using a lead-testing kit. You can purchase a lead-testing kit online or at a local health food store.

Q: What can I do if I have already been exposed to lead in lipstick?

A: If you have already been exposed to lead in lipstick, you can take the following steps:

  1. Consult a healthcare professional. A healthcare professional can assess your exposure and provide guidance on how to minimize your risk.
  2. Avoid further exposure. Avoid using lipsticks that contain lead and take steps to minimize your exposure to lead.
  3. Consider getting a blood test. A blood test can help determine if you have been exposed to lead and the level of exposure.

Q: Can I still use lipstick if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

A: While it is possible to still use lipstick if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is not recommended. The long-term exposure to lead can have a negative impact on the health of the fetus or baby, and it is better to err on the side of caution.

Q: How can I support the development of safer lipstick products?

A: You can support the development of safer lipstick products by:

  1. Choosing lipsticks that are labeled as "lead-free" or "non-toxic."
  2. Supporting manufacturers that use natural ingredients and are less likely to contain lead.
  3. Contacting manufacturers and asking them to use safer ingredients.
  4. Spreading awareness about the risks associated with lead in lipstick.

Q: What can I do to help prevent lead in lipstick?

A: You can help prevent lead in lipstick by:

  1. Supporting manufacturers that use safer ingredients.
  2. Choosing lipsticks that are labeled as "lead-free" or "non-toxic."
  3. Spreading awareness about the risks associated with lead in lipstick.
  4. Contacting manufacturers and asking them to use safer ingredients.

Q: How can I get involved in the movement to prevent lead in lipstick?

A: You can get involved in the movement to prevent lead in lipstick by:

  1. Spreading awareness about the risks associated with lead in lipstick.
  2. Supporting manufacturers that use safer ingredients.
  3. Choosing lipsticks that are labeled as "lead-free" or "non-toxic."
  4. Contacting manufacturers and asking them to use safer ingredients.
  5. Participating in online communities and forums to discuss the issue of lead in lipstick.