Updated date:

Feb 15, 2012

Lipstick Recall - is there lead in my lipstick?

Author:

Update February 15, 2012: The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has released a report detailing lead levels in hundreds of lipstick brands and colors. Trace levels, which the FDA argues do not pose a risk to wearers, were detected in 400 lipsticks, in ranges of less than 0.026 ppm to 7.19 ppm (parts per million). The average was 1.11 ppm. The US does not define a maximum lead level in lipstick, but maintains the tested levels are safe. Canada, on the other hand, does impose an upper limit, but, at 10 ppm, all the FDA-tested lipsticks would clear this standard. There is no FDA recall of lipsticks at this time. However, you can review those lipsticks that showed trace lead levels in the table below. All tested lipsticks were purchased from retail shops in February 2010 and July 2010.


Sample #	Brand	Parent company	Lipstick Line Number and Color	Lot #	Lead ppm
1	Maybelline	L'Oreal USA	Color Sensational 125 Pink Petal	FF205	7.19
2	L'Oreal	L'Oreal USA	Colour Riche 410 Volcanic	FE259	7
3	NARS	Shiseido	Semi-Matte 1005 Red Lizard	0KAW	4.93
4	Cover Girl Queen Collection	Procter and Gamble	Vibrant Hues Color Q580 Ruby Remix	9139	4.92
5	NARS	Shiseido	Semi-Matte 1009 Funny Face	9DLW	4.89
6	L'Oreal	L'Oreal USA	Colour Riche 165 Tickled Pink	FF224	4.45
7	L'Oreal	L'Oreal USA	Intensely Moisturizing Lipcolor 748 Heroic	FD306	4.41
8	Cover Girl	Procter and Gamble	Continuous Color 025 Warm Brick	9098	4.28
9	Maybelline	L'Oreal USA	Color Sensational 475 Mauve Me	FF201	4.23
10	Stargazer	Stargazer	Lipstick 103	180808	4.12
11	Stargazer	Stargazer	Lipstick 103	180808	4.06
12	Revlon	Revlon	Matte 009 Fabulous Fig	8262	3.32
13	Sonia Kashuk	Target Corporation	Luxury Lip Color 27 Mauvey	090464_0511 X564A	3.12
14	Avon	Avon	Beyond Color 558 Mad For Mauve	AR01	3.08
15	L'Oreal	L'Oreal USA	Endless 530 Mauve Amour	FD339	2.87
16	Revlon	Revlon	ColorStay 375 Ripened Red	9040	2.84
17	Burt's Bees	Clorox Company	Lip Shimmer Toffee	1130801	2.81
18	Revlon	Revlon	Super Lustrous Pearl 631 Luminous Pink	9097	2.81
19	Sonia Kashuk	Target Corporation	Luxury Lip Color 27 Mauvey	090464_0511 X564A	2.8
20	Revlon	Revlon	Super Lustrous Pearl 643 Satin Plum	8351	2.77
21	Cover Girl	Procter and Gamble	Continuous Color 595 Iced Plum	5353	2.74
22	Stargazer	Stargazer	Lipstick 101	180808	2.71
23	Fashion Fair	Johnson Publishing Company	Forever Matte 8207 Forever Gold	H2	2.68
24	Avon	Avon	Beyond Color 541 Uptown Pink Rose	KL9	2.59
25	Cover Girl	Procter and Gamble	Continuous Color 035 Smokey Rose	8261	2.56
26	Cover Girl	Procter and Gamble	Incredifull Lipcolor 924 Ripe Raspberry	8226S1	2.52
27	Revlon	Revlon	Renewist 130 Mauvellous	8043	2.52
28	Revlon	Revlon	ColorStay Soft and Smooth 200 Natural Cashmere	9233	2.44
29	Cover Girl	Procter and Gamble	Continuous Color 435 Cherry Brandy	5258	2.42
30	Revlon	Revlon	Renewist 010 Naturally Revealing	8077	2.4
31	Cover Girl	Procter and Gamble	Continuous Color 701 Rosy Wine	5102	2.28
32	Lancome	L'Oreal USA	Color Design Metallic Work It!	18G101	2.28
33	M.A.C	Estee Lauder	Frost Metal Maven	AC9	2.28
34	Cover Girl Queen Collection	Procter and Gamble	Vibrant Hues Color Q582 Cherry Bomb	7290	2.27
35	Stargazer	Stargazer	Fantasy Crystal Fuschia	10306	2.27
36	Cover Girl	Procter and Gamble	Continuous Color 575 Really Red	5251	2.26
37	Revlon	Revlon	Renewist 160 Plum Luck	7339	2.25
38	Burt's Bees	Clorox Company	Lip Shimmer Guava	3000901	2.24
39	Revlon	Revlon	ColorStay Soft and Smooth 360 Pink Indulgence	9141	2.24
40	Avon	Avon	Beyond Color 549 Pink Lemonade	KW9	2.23
41	Cover Girl Queen Collection	Procter and Gamble	Vibrant Hues Color Q430 Toast Of The Town	7297	2.22
42	Almay	Revlon	Hydracolor 545 Pink Pearl	9986-20	2.21
43	Fashion Fair	Johnson Publishing Company	Finishings 8907 Berry Bourgeois	8900-70	2.18
44	Revlon	Revlon	Matte 006 Really Red	9259	2.12
45	Mary Kay	Mary Kay	Creme 014337 Sheer Blush	MT10	2.09
46	Jafra	Jafra Cosmetics International	Ultra Creamy 814 Pure Blush	9233	2.08
47	M.A.C	Estee Lauder	Amplified Creme Show Orchid	AC9	2.08
48	Estee Lauder Prescriptives	Estee Lauder	Colorscope Shimmer 24 Apricot Blossom	A97	2.07
49	Cover Girl	Procter and Gamble	Continuous Color 565 Rose Cashmere	9104	2
50	Cover Girl	Procter and Gamble	Continuous Color 015 Bronzed Peach	8345	2
51	L'Oreal	L'Oreal USA	Endless 830 Naked Ambition	FD274	2
52	Rimmel London	Coty	Lasting Finish 058 Drop Of Sherry	9056	1.98
53	Stargazer	Stargazer	Lipstick 130	141207	1.98
54	Mary Kay	Mary Kay	Creme 014346 Garnetfrost	RH11	1.96
55	Avon	Avon	Beyond Color 557 Cantaloupe	KD91	1.95
56	Cover Girl	Procter and Gamble	Continuous Color 565 Rose Cashmere	9104	1.94
57	Maybelline	L'Oreal USA	Color Sensational 335 Get Nutty	FF293	1.94
58	Cover Girl Queen Collection	Procter and Gamble	Vibrant Hues Color Q435 Cherrylicious	7297	1.93
59	Cover Girl	Procter and Gamble	Continuous Color 505 Iceblue Pink	9356	1.92
60	Revlon	Revlon	Moon Drops 260 Heather Frost	2Y1	1.91
61	Clarins	Clarins USA	Rouge Appeal 09 Strawberry Smoothie	HC	1.88
62	Revlon	Revlon	ColorStay Soft and Smooth 225 Pecan Pleasure	9296	1.88
63	Rimmel London	Coty	Lasting Finish 058 Drop Of Sherry	9056	1.88
64	BeneFit	LVMH Perfums and Cosmetics	Pearl LP23 Bold and Beautiful	3L1A	1.86
65	Revlon	Revlon	Super Lustrous Pearl 120 Apricot Fantasy	9154	1.85
66	NARS	Shiseido	Shimmer 1021 Venice	9XAD	1.84
67	Revlon	Revlon	Super Lustrous Pearl 450 Gentlemen Prefer Pink	9069	1.84
68	Almay	Revlon	Hydracolor 510 Rosewood	7005	1.82
69	Mary Kay	Mary Kay	Creme 014343 Mocha Freeze	MT13	1.82
70	Revlon	Revlon	Moon Drops Frost 450 Amethyst Smoke	9328	1.81
71	L'Oreal	L'Oreal USA	Colour Riche 760 Silverstone	FF152	1.8
72	Revlon	Revlon	Renewist 060 Perfect Pastel	7087	1.8
73	Estee Lauder	Estee Lauder	Pure Color 116 Candy	AA9	1.78
74	Maybelline	L'Oreal USA	Color Sensational 465 Madison Mauve	FF340	1.78
75	Cover Girl	Procter and Gamble	Continuous Color 560 Fabulous Fuchsia	9264	1.76
76	Elizabeth Arden	Elizabeth Arden	Color Intrigue Effects 19 Cocoa Bronze Pearl	8KAK	1.76
77	Revlon	Revlon	ColorStay Soft and Smooth 315 Juicy Plum	9257	1.75
78	Revlon	Revlon	Super Lustrous Pearl 420 Blushed	9260	1.75
79	Jafra	Jafra Cosmetics International	Ultra Creamy 815 Pure Ruby	9234	1.74
80	Avon	Avon	Beyond Color 555 Raisinette	LN9	1.73
81	L'Oreal	L'Oreal USA	Endless 520 Eternally Mauve	FF016	1.72
82	Maybelline	L'Oreal USA	Moisture Extreme A78 Wine On Ice	WD1361	1.71
83	Revlon	Revlon	Moon Drops Frost 700 Crystal Cut Coral	7080	1.7
84	Almay	Revlon	Hydracolor 615 Plum Pearl	6340	1.69
85	Gabriel	Gabriel Cosmetics	Color Copper Glaze	9226	1.69
86	Gabriel	Gabriel Cosmetics	Color Copper Glaze	9226	1.69
87	L'Oreal	L'Oreal USA	Colour Riche 417 Peach Fuzz	FF324	1.69
88	L'Oreal	L'Oreal USA	Endless 400 Captivating Coral	FE012	1.69
89	NARS	Shiseido	Sheer 1081 Beautiful Liar	8WGD	1.69
90	L'Oreal	L'Oreal USA	Colour Riche 620 Mica	FF135	1.63
91	Maybelline	L'Oreal USA	Color Sensational 205 Nearly There	FF319	1.61
92	Revlon	Revlon	Super Lustrous Pearl 205 Champagne On Ice	9309	1.61
93	M.A.C	Estee Lauder	Frost Bronzilla	AB9	1.57
94	Stargazer	Stargazer	Glitter Green	708	1.57
95	Dior	LVMH Perfums and Cosmetics	Rouge Dior 365 VIP Pink	9T03	1.56
96	Revlon	Revlon	Super Lustrous Pearl 520 Wine With Everything	10062	1.55
97	Revlon	Revlon	Moon Drops Frost 335 Copperglaze Brown	8206	1.54
98	BeneFit	LVMH Perfums and Cosmetics	Full-Finish LP83 Sassy-frass	8E2A	1.53
99	Stargazer	Stargazer	Lipstick 104	10606	1.53


Sample #	Brand	Parent company	Lipstick Line Number and Color	Lot #	Lead ppm
100	Estee Lauder Prescriptives	Estee Lauder	Colorscope Sparkle 51 Bronze Lustre	A79	1.5
101	M.A.C	Estee Lauder	Glaze Frou	A10	1.49
102	Mary Kay	Mary Kay	Creme 014358 Frosted Rose	RR22	1.49
103	Maybelline	L'Oreal USA	Moisture Extreme 12 Sugar Plum Ice	WB1591	1.48
104	Maybelline	L'Oreal USA	Mineral Power 100 Pink Pearl	FE190	1.47
105	Maybelline	L'Oreal USA	Color Sensational 615 Summer Sunset	FF275	1.46
106	Revlon	Revlon	Super Lustrous Pearl 520 Wine With Everything	10062	1.46
107	Avon	Avon	Beyond Color 551 Peach Daiquiri	KP9	1.45
108	L'Oreal	L'Oreal USA	Endless 500 Undeniably Mauve	FF023	1.45
109	L'Oreal	L'Oreal USA	Endless 740 Really Rose	FF243	1.44
110	Maybelline	L'Oreal USA	Moisture Extreme G280 Mocha Ice	WD1421	1.41
111	Almay	Revlon	Hydracolor 600 Dusk	681B	1.4
112	Avon	Avon	Perfect Wear P003 Forever Pink	SBK01	1.39
113	Mary Kay	Mary Kay	Tinted Lip Balm 025748 Blush	TC26	1.39
114	Colorganics	Colorganics	Hemp Organics Purple Haze		1.38
115	L'Oreal	L'Oreal USA	Colour Riche 805 Golden Splendor	FF364	1.38
116	Stargazer	Stargazer	Lipstick 117	180808	1.38
117	Estee Lauder	Estee Lauder	All Day ADL 39 Frosted Apricot	AA9	1.37
118	Maybelline	L'Oreal USA	Mineral Power 250 Chestnut	FE158	1.37
119	Colorganics	Colorganics	Hemp Organics Purple Haze		1.36
120	Estee Lauder	Estee Lauder	Pure Color 1E0 Classic Red	AA9	1.35
121	Almay	Revlon	Ideal Lipcolor 240 Plum	086724-16	1.34
122	Lancome	L'Oreal USA	Color Fever Shine Natural Glimmer	18F302	1.34
123	M.A.C	Estee Lauder	Glaze Bubbles	AC9	1.34
124	Clinique	Estee Lauder	High Impact 03 Metallic Sand	B78	1.33
125	Estee Lauder	Estee Lauder	Pure Color 125 Melon	A69	1.32
126	Revlon	Revlon	Renewist 170 Full Bodied Wine	8040	1.32
127	Estee Lauder Origins	Estee Lauder	Flower Fusion 21 Calla Lily	A39	1.31
128	Lancome	L'Oreal USA	Color Fever Enticing Rose	1.80E+105	1.31
129	Mary Kay	Mary Kay	Creme 014379 Paradise Pink	MK31	1.3
130	Revlon	Revlon	Moon Drops Creme 585 Persian Melon	8156	1.28
131	Elizabeth Arden	Elizabeth Arden	Ceramide Plump Perfect 27 Perfect Amethyst	9CA	1.27
132	Almay	Revlon	Hydracolor 520 Sienna	651X	1.26
133	Mary Kay	Mary Kay	Creme 014349 Golden	MR26	1.26
134	Clinique	Estee Lauder	High Impact 24 Nearly Violet	AB8	1.24
135	Clinique	Estee Lauder	Long Last Soft Matte 82 Berry Berry	A89	1.24
136	Victoria's Secret	Limited Brands	Sparkling Adorned	8345ZA	1.23
137	Almay	Revlon	Hydracolor 520 Sienna	651X	1.22
138	L'Oreal	L'Oreal USA	Endless 300 Crimson Joy	FF203	1.21
139	Chanel	Chanel	Rouge Hydrabase 134 Wild Tulip	121	1.2
140	Lancome	L'Oreal USA	Le Rouge Absolu Beige Cashmere	18F200	1.2
141	Victoria's Secret	Limited Brands	Heidi Klum Perfect Exotic Spice	9223ZA	1.19
142	Clinique	Estee Lauder	High Impact 09 Citrus Rose	A89	1.18
143	Lancome	L'Oreal USA	Color Design Sheen Vintage Rose	18G203	1.18
144	Revlon	Revlon	Super Lustrous Pearl 300 Coffee Bean	9110	1.18
145	Victoria's Secret	Limited Brands	Sheer Gloss Stick Vulnerable	X139	1.18
146	Fashion Fair	Johnson Publishing Company	Lipstick 8091 Crystal Crimson	B3	1.17
147	Iman Cosmetics	Iman Cosmetics	Luxury Moisturizing 004 Paprika	9541	1.17
148	Clinique	Estee Lauder	Different A3 Ice Bloom	B79	1.15
149	Mary Kay	Mary Kay	Creme 014340 Pink Shimmer	RH30	1.15
150	Victoria's Secret	Limited Brands	Too Faced Free Love	ABO	1.15
151	Clinique	Estee Lauder	Long Last Soft Shine C2 Heather Moon	A79	1.13
152	Lancome	L'Oreal USA	Color Fever Beige Everyday	18DO02	1.13
153	Almay	Revlon	Ideal Lipcolor 210 Coffee	86724-04	1.12
154	Lancome	L'Oreal USA	Color Design Metallic Poodle Skirt	18F902	1.11
155	Chanel	Chanel	Aqualumière 74 Como	9601	1.1
156	Stargazer	Stargazer	Fantasy Crystal Pink	10306	1.1
157	Clarins	Clarins USA	Lip Colour Tint 19 Wild Berry	F5	1.08
158	L'Oreal	L'Oreal USA	Endless 800 In The Buff	FF218	1.08
159	M.A.C	Estee Lauder	Frost Bronze Shimmer	AB9	1.08
160	Avon	Avon	Ultra Color Rich U421 Berry Berry Nice	SKC91	1.07
161	Clinique	Estee Lauder	High Impact 27 After Party	AB9	1.07
162	Lancome	L'Oreal USA	L‘Absolu Rouge Champagne	18G101	1.07
163	Revlon	Revlon	Moon Drops Creme 590 Lilac Champagne	8217	1.06
164	Chanel	Chanel	Aqualumière 31 Waikiki	1302	1.05
165	Estee Lauder Prescriptives	Estee Lauder	Colorscope Cream 35 Currant Affair	AC7	1.04
166	L'Oreal	L'Oreal USA	Colour Riche 835 Bronze Coin	FF149	1.04
167	Revlon	Revlon	Beyond Natural 050 Spice	821B	1.04
168	M.A.C	Estee Lauder	Frost Frenzy	A10	1.03
169	Maybelline	L'Oreal USA	Color Sensational 635 Very Cherry	FF341	1.03
170	Stargazer	Stargazer	Glitter Fuschia	1009	1.03
171	BeneFit	LVMH Perfums and Cosmetics	Silky-Finish LP57 Candy Store	9K1A	1.02
172	Iman Cosmetics	Iman Cosmetics	Luxury Lipstain 203 Rapture	9634	1.02
173	Mary Kay	Mary Kay	Creme 014382 Pink Satin	MV11	1.02
174	Estee Lauder	Estee Lauder	Double Wear DWL 01 Stay Rose	A59	1.01
175	Clinique	Estee Lauder	Butter Shine 441 Adore U	AB9	1
176	Lancome	L'Oreal USA	Le Rouge Absolu Pink Eclipse	7K016	1
177	M.A.C	Estee Lauder	Frost Bombshell	A99	1
178	Mary Kay	Mary Kay	Creme 014376 Dusty Rose	MM20	0.97
179	Estee Lauder	Estee Lauder	Double Wear DWL 03 Stay Pinkberry	A79	0.96
180	Lancome	L'Oreal USA	L‘Absolu Rouge Amande Sucrée	18G100	0.96
181	Bobbi Brown	Estee Lauder	Metallic Lip Color 1 Baby Peach	AA9	0.95
182	Clinique	Estee Lauder	Different A0 Gingerfrost	A10	0.95
183	M.A.C	Estee Lauder	Lustre London Life	AB9	0.95
184	NARS	Shiseido	Sheer 1078 Manhunt	7FLD	0.95
185	Revlon	Revlon	Super Lustrous Pearl 657 Fuchsia Fusion	9167	0.95
186	Stargazer	Stargazer	Glitter Pink	708	0.95
187	Estee Lauder	Estee Lauder	Signature SIG L 10 Radiant Rose	A89	0.94
188	Avon	Avon	Ultra Color Rich U421 Berry Berry Nice	SKC91	0.93
189	Maybelline	L'Oreal USA	Moisture Extreme 310 Plum Sable	WC1871	0.93
190	Rimmel London	Coty	Lasting Finish 170 Alarm	7246	0.93
191	M.A.C	Estee Lauder	Baroque Boudoir Baroque Boudoir	A99	0.92
192	Mary Kay	Mary Kay	Creme 014355 Raisinberry	RF29	0.92
193	Stargazer	Stargazer	Lipstick 111	10306	0.92
194	Clinique	Estee Lauder	Long Last Soft Shine 15 All Heart	A89	0.91
195	Lancome	L'Oreal USA	Color Fever Rock Icon Fuchsia	7D178	0.91
196	Mary Kay	Mary Kay	Creme 014352 Apricot Glaze	RD19	0.91
197	Maybelline	L'Oreal USA	Color Sensational 325 Cinnamon Stick	FF303	0.91
198	Elizabeth Arden	Elizabeth Arden	Ceramide Plump Perfect 03 Perfect Currant	9AA1	0.9


Sample #	Brand	Parent company	Lipstick Line Number and Color	Lot #	Lead ppm
199	Maybelline	L'Oreal USA	Moisture Extreme 310 Plum Sable	WC1871	0.9
200	Estee Lauder	Estee Lauder	Signature SIG 06 Lush Rose	A88	0.89
201	Maybelline	L'Oreal USA	Moisture Extreme C377 Rose Luster	WD2081	0.89
202	Chanel	Chanel	Aqualumière 37 Ipanema	1501	0.88
203	Estee Lauder	Estee Lauder	All Day ADL 18 Starlit Pink	A10	0.88
204	Clinique	Estee Lauder	Long Last Soft Shine 13 Baby Kiss	A89	0.86
205	Elizabeth Arden	Elizabeth Arden	Color Intrigue Effects 15 Sugarplum Shimmer	K9JA2	0.86
206	L'Oreal	L'Oreal USA	Colour Riche 825 Bronzine	FF236	0.86
207	Mary Kay	Mary Kay	Creme 014334 Berry Kiss	MV04	0.86
208	Clarins	Clarins USA	Joli Rouge 703 Ginger	RU	0.85
209	Chanel	Chanel	Rouge Allure 21 Exotic	2201	0.84
210	Clinique	Estee Lauder	Long Last Soft Shine 15 All Heart	A89	0.84
211	Estee Lauder	Estee Lauder	Signature SIG 31 Spiced Coral	A89	0.84
212	Estee Lauder	Estee Lauder	Double Wear DWL 02 Stay Pink	B49	0.83
213	Mary Kay	Mary Kay	Tinted Lip Balm 025393 Rose	TF23	0.83
214	Clinique	Estee Lauder	Butter Shine 426 Perfect Plum	AB9	0.82
215	Dior	LVMH Perfums and Cosmetics	Addict High Shine 750 Runway Red	9Wo1	0.82
216	L'Oreal	L'Oreal USA	Colour Riche 825 Bronzine	FF236	0.82
217	L'Oreal	L'Oreal USA	Colour Riche 754 Sugar Plum	FF245	0.82
218	Clinique	Estee Lauder	Long Last Soft Shine 63 Pink Spice	AA9	0.81
219	Stargazer	Stargazer	Fantasy Crystal Cinnamon	10306	0.81
220	Estee Lauder	Estee Lauder	Signature SIG 31 Spiced Coral	A89	0.8
221	Estee Lauder	Estee Lauder	Pure Color Crystal 303 Crystal Pink	AA9	0.8
222	Iman Cosmetics	Iman Cosmetics	Luxury Moisturizing 001 Wild Thing	9BU3	0.8
223	Mary Kay	Mary Kay	Tinted Lip Balm 025395 Apricot	TC30	0.8
224	Lancome	L'Oreal USA	Color Design Metallic Copper Desire	18FN11	0.79
225	Bobbi Brown	Estee Lauder	Metallic Lip Color 10 Ruby	AC9	0.78
226	Estee Lauder	Estee Lauder	Signature SIG 07 Rich Berry	A98	0.78
227	Estee Lauder Origins	Estee Lauder	Flower Fusion 04 Marigold	A59	0.78
228	Estee Lauder	Estee Lauder	Signature SIG 63 Divine Red	A68	0.77
229	Burt's Bees	Clorox Company	Lip Shimmer Champagne	3530901	0.76
230	L'Oreal	L'Oreal USA	Intensely Moisturizing Lipcolor 858 Charming	FD033	0.76
231	Maybelline	L'Oreal USA	Moisture Extreme A55 Orchid Frost	WC3491	0.76
232	Cover Girl Queen Collection	Procter and Gamble	Vibrant Hues Shine Q930 Shiny Parfait	8113U2	0.75
233	Estee Lauder	Estee Lauder	Signature SIG 33 Apricot Sun	A39	0.75
234	Mary Kay	Mary Kay	Creme 014325 Black Cherry	RH24	0.75
235	Clinique	Estee Lauder	Different A4 Angelic	A10	0.74
236	Estee Lauder	Estee Lauder	Signature SIG 15 Woodland Berry	B79	0.74
237	M.A.C	Estee Lauder	Slimshine Rock Out	AB7	0.74
238	Mary Kay	Mary Kay	Creme 014373 Pink Melon	RF27	0.74
239	Lancome	L'Oreal USA	Color Fever Shine Simmering	18DD00	0.73
240	L'Oreal	L'Oreal USA	Colour Riche 590 Blushing Berry	FF306	0.73
241	Mary Kay	Mary Kay	Creme 014373 Pink Melon	RF27	0.72
242	Stargazer	Stargazer	Lipstick 115	180808	0.72
243	Chanel	Chanel	Aqualumière 98 Grenada	1901	0.7
244	Mary Kay	Mary Kay	Tinted Lip Balm 025396 Poppy	TD01	0.7
245	Rimmel London	Coty	Lasting Finish 180 Jet Set Red	9295	0.7
246	Lancome	L'Oreal USA	L‘Absolu Rouge Absolute Rouge	18G200	0.69
247	Lancome	L'Oreal USA	L‘Absolu Rouge Absolute Rouge	18G200	0.69
248	L'Oreal	L'Oreal USA	Endless 850 Extreme Spice	FF222	0.69
249	M.A.C	Estee Lauder	Satin Viva Glam II	A20	0.69
250	Elizabeth Arden	Elizabeth Arden	Exceptional 74 Marigold	8PA3	0.68
251	Revlon	Revlon	Super Lustrous Pearl 616 Wink For Pink	9162	0.68
252	Estee Lauder	Estee Lauder	Signature SIG 36 Black Cherry	A99	0.67
253	L'Oreal	L'Oreal USA	Endless 820 Chocolate Obsession	FF216	0.66
254	Victoria's Secret	Limited Brands	Matte Cream Siren	76	0.66
255	Rimmel London	Coty	Lasting Finish 038 In Vogue	9279	0.64
256	Mary Kay	Mary Kay	Creme 014361 Toffee	RF19	0.63
257	Revlon	Revlon	Beyond Natural 060 Berry	951	0.63
258	M.A.C	Estee Lauder	Glaze Shitaki	AB9	0.62
259	M.A.C	Estee Lauder	Slimshine Intimidate	A69	0.62
260	Mary Kay	Mary Kay	Creme 014331 Whipped Berries	RH28	0.61
261	Stargazer	Stargazer	Fantasy Crystal Copper	10306	0.61
262	Estee Lauder	Estee Lauder	Pure Color 1CM Plumberry	A78	0.6
263	M.A.C	Estee Lauder	Cremesheen On Hold	AC9	0.6
264	Mary Kay	Mary Kay	Creme 014367 Tanned	MR08	0.6
265	Mary Kay	Mary Kay	Creme 014385 Hibiscus	MK30	0.6
266	Chanel	Chanel	Rouge Allure 70 Adorable	1801	0.59
267	Chanel	Chanel	Rouge Allure 70 Adorable	1801	0.59
268	Maybelline	L'Oreal USA	Moisture Extreme C410 Plum Wine	FF050A	0.59
269	Avon	Avon	Perfect Wear P203 Enduring Wine	SBB01	0.58
270	Avon	Avon	Perfect Wear P005 Forever Fuschia	SKK91	0.58
271	Chanel	Chanel	Rouge Allure 75 Amusing	1401	0.58
272	Clinique	Estee Lauder	Long Last Soft Shine 08 Golden Brandy	A99	0.58
273	Clinique	Estee Lauder	Different 33 Raspberry Glace	A10	0.57
274	Mary Kay	Mary Kay	Creme 014328 Apple Berry	RK21	0.57
275	Avon	Avon	Ultra Color Rich U101 Instant Mocha	SLG91	0.56
276	M.A.C	Estee Lauder	Frost Angel	A10	0.56
277	Avon	Avon	Ultra Color Rich U2 Wink	SJF91	0.55
278	Maybelline	L'Oreal USA	Mineral Power 350 Plum Wine	FE184	0.55
279	Estee Lauder Prescriptives	Estee Lauder	Lipshine 09 Sunkissed	A69	0.54
280	Chanel	Chanel	Rouge Allure 14 Passion	2201	0.53
281	M.A.C	Estee Lauder	Glaze Riveting	AC9	0.53
282	Clarins	Clarins USA	Joli Rouge Perfect 700 Cedar Red	6N	0.52
283	Clinique	Estee Lauder	Butter Shine 414 Fresh Watermelon	AA9	0.52
284	Lancome	L'Oreal USA	L'Absolu Rouge Rose Mythique	18G101	0.52
285	M.A.C	Estee Lauder	Lustre Milan Mode	AC8	0.52
286	Maybelline	L'Oreal USA	Moisture Extreme E190 Royal Red	FE354A	0.52
287	Lancome	L'Oreal USA	L'Absolu Rouge Rich Cashmere	18G101	0.51
288	Chanel	Chanel	Rouge Allure 10 Attitude	1001	0.5
289	Estee Lauder	Estee Lauder	Pure Color Crystal 91 Elizabeth Pink	A89	0.5
290	Estee Lauder	Estee Lauder	Pure Color Crystal 306 Crystal Rose	A79	0.5
291	Avon	Avon	Perfect Wear P304 Sunkissed Ginger	SBC91	0.49
292	Cover Girl Queen Collection	Procter and Gamble	Vibrant Hues Shine Q920 Shiny Port Wine	8170U2	0.49
293	BeneFit	LVMH Perfums and Cosmetics	Full-Finish LP84 Do Tell	8F1A	0.48
294	Estee Lauder Prescriptives	Estee Lauder	Lipshine 06 Raspberry Ice	A49	0.48
295	Avon	Avon	Ultra Color Rich U206 Wineberry	SJL91	0.47
296	Iman Cosmetics	Iman Cosmetics	Luxury Moisturizing 006 Black Brandy	8AK1	0.47
297	Wet 'n' Wild	Markwins International	Mega Last Lip Color 901B Think Pink	931201	0.47


Sample #	Brand	Parent company	Lipstick Line Number and Color	Lot #	Lead ppm
298	Clinique	Estee Lauder	Different A5 Heartfelt	A10	0.46
299	Estee Lauder	Estee Lauder	Pure Color Crystal 3C8 Crystal Beige	B48	0.45
300	M.A.C	Estee Lauder	Lustre Sophisto	AC9	0.45
301	Revlon	Revlon	Super Lustrous Creme 640 Blackberry	9308	0.44
302	Shiseido	Shiseido	Shimmering SL7 C	FPKD	0.44
303	Burt's Bees	Clorox Company	Lip Shimmer Raisin	3070901	0.43
304	Clinique	Estee Lauder	Butter Shine 409 Ambrosia	A89	0.43
305	Clinique	Estee Lauder	Long Last Soft Shine 17 Watermelon	A89	0.43
306	Lancome	L'Oreal USA	L'Absolu Rouge Pink Sapphire	18EO02	0.43
307	M.A.C	Estee Lauder	Lustre Charismatic	AB9	0.41
308	M.A.C	Estee Lauder	Lustre Laugh A Lot	AB9	0.41
309	Bobbi Brown	Estee Lauder	Creamy Lip Color 33 Retro Pink	AC9	0.4
310	Clinique	Estee Lauder	Butter Shine 427 Crushed Grape	A99	0.4
311	Cover Girl Queen Collection	Procter and Gamble	Vibrant Hues Shine Q940 Shiny Wine	8320U2	0.4
312	M.A.C	Estee Lauder	Satin Empowered	A99	0.4
313	Clinique	Estee Lauder	Butter Shine 433 Apple Brandy	A89	0.39
314	Estee Lauder Origins	Estee Lauder	Rain and Shine 15 Pink Sparkle	A39	0.39
315	M.A.C	Estee Lauder	Lustre Utter Fun	A79	0.39
316	M.A.C	Estee Lauder	Amplified Creme Cosmo	AC9	0.39
317	Maybelline	L'Oreal USA	Moisture Extreme G140 Peach Mocha	WC2261	0.39
318	Shiseido	Shiseido	Shimmering SL16	NNGS	0.39
319	Estee Lauder	Estee Lauder	Pure Color 1A3 Maraschino	A89	0.38
320	Avon	Avon	Ultra Color Rich U103 Rosewine	SLI91	0.37
321	M.A.C	Estee Lauder	Lustre Utter Fun	A79	0.37
322	M.A.C	Estee Lauder	Lustre Patisserie	AA9	0.37
323	Clarins	Clarins USA	Sun Sheer 05 Sunset Cinnamon	M1	0.35
324	Victoria's Secret	Limited Brands	Perfect Showstopper	9BZ1	0.35
325	Estee Lauder	Estee Lauder	All Day ADL 19 Rich and Rosey	AA9	0.33
326	Shiseido	Shiseido	Shimmering SL10	NLEL	0.32
327	Stargazer	Stargazer	Lipstick 119	17210	0.32
328	Wet 'n' Wild	Markwins International	Mega Last Lip Color 914C Mocha-licious	931301	0.32
329	Clinique	Estee Lauder	High Impact 19 Extreme Pink	A99	0.31
330	Dior	LVMH Perfums and Cosmetics	Addict Lipcolor 773 Scarlet Siren	9X02	0.31
331	M.A.C	Estee Lauder	Amplified Creme Dubonnet	A20	0.31
332	Avon	Avon	Ultra Color Rich U423 Red 2000	SJL91	0.3
333	L'Oreal	L'Oreal USA	Endless 310 Fired Up	FD268	0.3
334	M.A.C	Estee Lauder	Satin Retro	AB9	0.3
335	Stargazer	Stargazer	Lipstick 108	90808	0.3
336	Clinique	Estee Lauder	High Impact 14 Cider Berry	A49	0.29
337	Lancome	L'Oreal USA	Le Rouge Absolu Rhum Riche	18F100	0.29
338	L'Oreal	L'Oreal USA	Endless 720 Real Raisin	FF232	0.29
339	Mary Kay	Mary Kay	Creme 014364 Shell	RF31	0.29
340	Cover Girl	Procter and Gamble	Continuous Color 030 It's Your Mauve	9346	0.28
341	Maybelline	L'Oreal USA	Volume Seduction XL 405 Peachy Flush	WE020	0.28
342	Revlon	Revlon	Super Lustrous Creme 135 Chocolate Velvet	9236	0.28
343	Clinique	Estee Lauder	High Impact 05 Go Fig	A59	0.27
344	Lancome	L'Oreal USA	Color Design Red Stiletto	18G101	0.27
345	M.A.C	Estee Lauder	Cremesheen Creme In Your Coffee	A89	0.27
346	Lancome	L'Oreal USA	Color Design Cream All Done Up	1.80E+219	0.26
347	Clinique	Estee Lauder	Long Last Soft Matte 18 Vintage Wine	A99	0.25
348	M.A.C	Estee Lauder	Slimshine Urgent!	A49	0.25
349	M.A.C	Estee Lauder	Lustre Plumful	AA9	0.24
350	Clinique	Estee Lauder	Different A6 Rose Aglow	A10	0.23
351	Lancome	L'Oreal USA	Color Fever Shine Tempt Me	18DN26	0.23
352	M.A.C	Estee Lauder	Amplified Creme Morange	AC9	0.23
353	Maybelline	L'Oreal USA	Volume Seduction XL 605 Seductively Nude	WF197	0.23
354	NARS	Shiseido	Satin 1060 Afghan Red	8UDD	0.23
355	Bobbi Brown	Estee Lauder	Creamy Lip Color 5 Blue Raspberry	AC9	0.22
356	Clinique	Estee Lauder	Butter Shine 432 Cranberry Cream	A89	0.22
357	Wet 'n' Wild	Markwins International	Mega Last Lip Color 916D Ravin' Raisin	933001	0.22
358	Avon	Avon	Ultra Color Rich U250 Cherry Jubilee	SJT91	0.21
359	Clinique	Estee Lauder	Different 04 A Different Grape	AB9	0.2
360	Estee Lauder Origins	Estee Lauder	Rain and Shine 22 Razzleberry	A10	0.2
361	Lancome	L'Oreal USA	Le Rouge Absolu Valentine	18ED00	0.2
362	Lancome	L'Oreal USA	L‘Absolu Rouge Berry Noir	18FO00	0.2
363	M.A.C	Estee Lauder	Satin Cyber	AC9	0.2
364	Avon	Avon	Ultra Color Rich U420 Poppy Love	SJZ91	0.18
365	Cover Girl	Procter and Gamble	Continuous Color 795 Toasted Almond	9230	0.18
366	Clinique	Estee Lauder	High Impact 02 Nude Beach	A89	0.17
367	Lancome	L'Oreal USA	Color Design Cream All Done Up	1.80E+219	0.17
368	Elizabeth Arden	Elizabeth Arden	Exceptional 30 Fiesta	9AA	0.16
369	L'Oreal	L'Oreal USA	Infallible 20 Gardenia	FE093B	0.16
370	M.A.C	Estee Lauder	Lustre Desire	A89	0.15
371	M.A.C Dsquared2	Estee Lauder	Lustre Blood Red	A69	0.15
372	Stargazer	Stargazer	Lipstick 110	121008	0.15
373	L'Oreal	L'Oreal USA	Colour Riche 108 Gilded Pink	FF339	0.14
374	Iman Cosmetics	Iman Cosmetics	Luxury Lipstain 208 Strip Tease	8CS1	0.13
375	M.A.C	Estee Lauder	Lustre Spice It Up!	A10	0.13
376	Wet 'n' Wild	Markwins International	Mega Last Lip Color 910D Red Velvet	932301	0.13
377	Avon	Avon	Ultra Color Rich U516 Tuscan Russet	SL291	0.12
378	Bobbi Brown	Estee Lauder	Lip Color 57 Hot Cocoa	A38	0.12
379	M.A.C	Estee Lauder	Lustre Lady Bug	AC9	0.12
380	M.A.C	Estee Lauder	Matte Viva Glam I	A20	0.11
381	BeneFit	LVMH Perfums and Cosmetics	Full-Finish LP87 La La Land	8F1A	0.08
382	L'Oreal	L'Oreal USA	Colour Riche 231 Raspberries	FD111	0.08
383	M.A.C	Estee Lauder	Amplified Creme Impassioned	A20	0.08
384	M.A.C	Estee Lauder	Matte Chili	A10	0.08
385	Clinique	Estee Lauder	Different 53 Guava Stain	AC9	0.07
386	Clinique	Estee Lauder	Long Last 02 Sugar Bean	A99	0.07
387	Victoria's Secret	Limited Brands	Pout Pink Champagne	9217ZA	0.07
388	Bobbi Brown	Estee Lauder	Lip Color 8 Blackberry	AA9	0.06
389	Bobbi Brown	Estee Lauder	Lip Color 8 Blackberry	AA9	0.06
390	Fashion Fair	Johnson Publishing Company	Lipstick 8018 Magenta Mist	H1	0.06
391	Fashion Fair	Johnson Publishing Company	Lipstick 8014 Earth Red	H1	0.05
392	Iman Cosmetics	Iman Cosmetics	Luxury Moisturizing 005 Iman Red	J2	0.05
393	M.A.C	Estee Lauder	Matte Lady Danger	A10	0.05
394	Lori Anne	Mood Magic	Mood Yellow		0.05
395	Estee Lauder	Estee Lauder	Pure Color 161 Pink Parfait	BA9	0.04
396	M.A.C	Estee Lauder	Satin d M.A.C Red	A10	0.03


Sample #	Brand	Parent company	Lipstick Line Number and Color	Lot #	Lead ppm
397	Lori Anne	Mood Magic	Mood Blue		0.03
398	Clinique	Estee Lauder	Almost 06 Black Honey	A79	0.026
399	L'Oreal	L'Oreal USA	Colour Juice 240 Cherry On Top	FF082	0.026
400	Wet'n' Wild	Markwins International	Mega Mixers Lipbalm 281 Bahama Mama	927101	0.026

Lipstick Recall?

Important facts about lead in lipstick:

61% of brand-name lipsticks recently tested contain lead
the average American woman consumes (ingests) 4 lbs of lipstick over the course of her lifetime
The US FDA (Food and Drug Administration) does not regulate the level of lead in lipstick
Many lead-containing lipsticks have more lead in them than is allowable in candy
It is almost impossible for the human body to dispose of or break down lead. It accumulate in body tissues over time, so even a small amount, over time, can pose health risks
Lead is a neurotoxin - it damages brain and nerve cells
Lead poses a particular risk to pregnant women, since it can cross the placenta into the fetus and cause developmental problems

Lipsticks tested to have the highest levels of lead (above 0.1ppm lead levels):

L'Oréal Colour Riche "True Red"
L'Oréal Colour Riche "Classic Wine"
Cover Girl Incredifull Lipcolor "Maximum Red"
Cover Girl Continuous Color "Cherry Brandy
Dior Addict "Positive Red"
Maybelline NY Moisture Extreme Cocoa Plum
Maybelline NY Moisture Extreme Midnight Red
Peacekeeper Paint Me Compassionate
Maybelline NY Moisture Extreme Scarlet Simmer

Safe lipsticks (less that 0.02ppm lead levels):

Avon Ultra Color Rich Cherry Jubilee
Body Shop Lip Colour Garnet
Clinique Long Last Lipstick Merlot
Dior Replenishing Lipcolor Red Premiere
Estee Lauder Maraschino
MAC Matte Lipstick Viva Glam 1
Revlon Superlustrous Love That Red
Revlon Superlustrous Bed of Roses
Revlon Colorstay Lipcolor Red Velvet
Tarte Inside Out Vitamin Lipstick
Wet N Wild Mega Colors Cherry Blossom

Source: Campaign for Safe Cosmetics

Read the full document here: "A Poison Kiss"

Note that there is not a current recall of lipstick.

If you would like to add your name to a petition demanding that the FDA institute a recall, please visit this site.
Latest feed of recalls from the FDA.
Contact L'Oreal to ask them to reformulate their lipsticks without lead-containing compounds.

Wait...wasn't this a myth?

There was an urban myth circulating around a few years ago that said that you could determine if a lipstick had high levels of lead by smearing it into your palm, rubbing a gold ring on it, and see if it turned black. That was a myth, and it has been debunked.

Part of the myth was that lipsticks had dangerous & illegal levels of lead, too. This too was a myth. The lead levels are within the confines for coloring substances (pigments) set by the FDA. However, with what we know about lead and its toxicity, how much is actually consumed, and the fact that no level of lead is truly safe, it's worth arguing that no lead at all should be detectable in lipstick. The figures above prove that you can make lipstick with lead below detectable levels.

At the end of the day, it's up to you to decide whether or not the FDA-allowable levels of lead in lipstick are acceptable to you or not.

Comments

Susan Trump from San Diego, California on February 17, 2015:

As a woman who has been lead poisoned for decades and who just wrote "Would you Choose a Lipstick that gave you Breast Cancer" I was still surprised by your chart. I've trusted Origins to be more conscious than they have proven to be and Mac was considerably less toxic than I believed. Thanks. Keep putting it out. People will listen soon. The Breast Cancer Fund is a research org that might interest you. This is their meat and potatoes. They are about getting these issues to change.

oldiesmusic from United States on October 14, 2013:

Aaaakkk!!! It's time for me to look for alternative for those lipsticks that are hopefully organic and lead-free. Thanks for posting. :)

Evelyn on April 18, 2013:

Avon has taken out the lipsticks that have lipsticks with lead.

louromano on March 25, 2012:

Very useful information !

emily on February 24, 2012:

Is there lead in most make up products e.g.

mascara and eyelineR?

Jason Menayan (author) from San Francisco on September 14, 2011:

Ellie: The fact is that this is an unregulated market. I could create a lipstick in my garage today and sell it tomorrow, and the FDA would have no oversight over it. If someone notified me that the lipstick I made had lead, or I discovered it, I could work with the FDA to get a recall going to limit costs associated with damages. But, short of that, you're going to see that FDA information is reactive to problems, not proactive to them, at least when it comes to cosmetics.

If lipsticks with 0.1ppm of lead or higher - which is, as the FDA says, probably not something to get terribly alarmed about - is okay with you, then lipsticks from major, established cosmetics companies are probably safe. They tend to have more rigorous manufacturing standards, and they will take extra precautions to make sure they're not sued (it would be a big PR mess for them). Picking lipsticks out of the drugstore bargain bin is considerably more risky.

Ellie on September 14, 2011:

Funny that the title is "Lipstick Recall" when there is no lipstick recall. When I tried to find out if there was lead in my lipstick I could not find it. The FDA site says that the lipsticks do not contain large amounts of lead. In fact after researching it, we ingest more lead from drinking water than our lipstick. So now should we stop drinking water and breathing air? I wish there was a site that had accurate information. I really want to know if my lipstick is safe.

Haley on July 29, 2010:

Wal Mart, FAF, Lip Gloss, Locket, Childrens jewelry, lead, recall, health, cpsc Wal Mart Lip Gloss, Locket and Bracelet Set ... Wal Mart, toy, Faded Glory, Lip Gloss, Locket, Bracelet, Childrens jewelry, health, cpsc, lead, recall Wal-Mart Faded Glory Lip Gloss, Locket, and Bracelet Set... i can go on for ever never buy lip gloss at walmart ever.

winter52 on February 28, 2009:

It almost makes you want to return to the days when women made their own cosmetics. Plant some beets in the garden and then use the natural color to stain your lips. Yes, after reading this, I am tempted! Thanks for the heads up!

cathybolean on April 18, 2008:

what much lipstics use can make lips sprue ache for you.

Darlene on December 04, 2007:

I immediately went and checked the brand name on my lipstick, I'm not safe, it's off to the store to buy one with no lead! Thanks for the info!

Wendy Iturrizaga from France on November 07, 2007:

I cannot believe that you have just listed some of my favorites lipsticks among the ones with the highest levels of lead...

Now it comes the "to wear it or not to wear it" question... I think I will take the risk.

dc64 on November 06, 2007:

This made me run and check my lipstick! Thanks for the heads up.

Rudra on October 24, 2007:

can trust anyone these days

Ashok Rajagopalan from Chennai on October 17, 2007:

I prefer women with 'natural' looks!

Stacie Naczelnik from Seattle on October 15, 2007:

I am so happy I rarely ever wear lapstick. It's either gloss or chapstick here.

Isabella Snow on October 13, 2007:

FFS! Eeeek! So glad I prefer gloss to lipstick!

Larry R. Miller on October 13, 2007:

Good article. This kind of information needs to be out there and those who are responsible for seeking the bottomline only need to be held accountable, especially at the checkout stand. The checkout stand will get their attention more quickly than some government agency that slaps them on the wrist and sends the bill to the American taxpayer.

maricarbo on October 13, 2007:

Thank you for this informative hub. I will be more careful now, when I buy my red color lipstick...and I do wear red....which seems to be the one that is affected.

madheadquaters from PLANET EARTH on October 12, 2007:

I THINK IT'S TIME TO PUT AN END TO THESE COMPANYS THAT DON'T SEEM TO CARE ABOUT THE PEOPLE WHO BUY THEIR PRODUCTS, IT'S TIME TO STOP BUYING THEIR PRODUCTS AND SERVICES. JUST SAY NO AND LET THEM GO OUT OF BUSINESS! THE LIP STICK MANUFACTURES, TOYS, FOOD, PET FOODS, PRODUCE, AND WHO KNOWS WHAT ELSE, EVERYDAY WE GET A NEW SURPRISE, IT'S TIME TO GIVE THEM A SURPRISE AND QUIT SUPPORTING THEM! STOP BUYING THEIR STUFF ALL OF IT AND FIND COMPANYS THAT CARE TO BUY YOUR PRODUCTS FROM.