In India, contact dermatitis due to excessive use of lipsticks, even branded ones, is common and has been documented in Dr J.S. Pasricha’s book Contact Dermatitis in India.For example, Bharti Taneja, a 35-year-old bank employee, had developed itching and small blisters on her lips. It was a case of acute contact dermatitis, caused by certain pigments of the lipsticks she applied on a regular basis. “I suggested her to stop using lipstick immediately and with the help of certain ointments and medicines, we managed to control the spread of dermatitis within a few weeks,” says Dr Kandhari.

The medical fraternity is still divided on the extent of harm the lipsticks can do to your skin. While the FDA’s final verdict is awaited, dermatologists say a patch test is a must. Says Dr Ahmed Zaheer, HOD, Dermatology, Max Super Speciality Hospital, “The important thing about this report is that lead has been found in a product that women apply directly to their mouths. You must scan the list of ingredients before buying it. A patch test of the product is also a prerequisite.”

THE REPORT TESTED THESE BRANDS POSITIVE FOR LEAD:
L’Oreal Colour Riche “True Red” - 0.65 ppm
L’Oreal Colour Riche “Classic Wine” - 0.58 ppm
Cover Girl Incredifull Lipcolor “Maximum Red” - 0.56 ppm
Dior Addict “Positive Red” - 0.21 ppm