Biomonitoring of Heavy Metal Concentration of Selected Personal Care Products (PCPs) Used by Students of Clifford University, Owerrinta (Ihie Campus), Abia State, Nigeria

Abstract

Abstract:Background: This study assessed the heavy metal content of selected personal care products(PCPs) used by students of Clifford University, Owerrinta (Ihie Campus), Abia State, Nigeria.The presence of contaminants, particularly heavy metals, in cosmetics is a major concern due topotential health risks.Methods: A total of 24 cosmetic samples, including foundations, face powders, lip glosses, andbody creams, were collected from six female hostel rooms. Samples were analyzed for lead (Pb),chromium (Cr), cadmium (Cd), arsenic (As), and mercury (Hg) using atomic absorptionspectrophotometry (AAS).Results: Lead concentrations in face powders and lip glosses frequently exceeded MaximumPermissible Limits (MPLs) of 10.00 mg/kg, reaching as high as 20.00 ± 1.01 mg/kg. Mercury infoundations reached 5.73 ± 0.16 mg/kg, far exceeding the 1.00 mg/kg MPL. Cadmium was alsoabove limits in foundation samples. Arsenic and chromium levels generally remained within safelimits.Conclusion: Findings indicate potential health risks due to high levels of toxic metals,particularly lead and mercury. The results highlight a need for stricter regulatory controls andcontinuous monitoring to safeguard consumer health.