Your favorite lipstick might be hiding a dark secret—or so the internet would have you believe. But is there really cause for alarm? Over the past few months, social media has been ablaze with warnings about lipsticks containing heavy metals like cadmium, a substance linked to kidney disease and stomach cancer in industrial exposure cases. But here's where it gets controversial: while the headlines are alarming, experts say the reality is far less frightening—as long as you’re using regulated, reputable products.
Dermatologists and oncologists agree that trace amounts of metals like cadmium can indeed be found in some lipsticks, but the levels are typically too low to pose a health risk when the products are properly regulated. And this is the part most people miss: the real danger comes from unregulated or counterfeit cosmetics, not your everyday, trusted brands. Dr. Swapna Priya, a consultant dermatologist at Cosmosure Clinic, explains, ‘Regulatory monitoring and peer-reviewed studies show that normal use of regulated lipsticks is unlikely to cause kidney or stomach cancers. The bigger risks are from counterfeit products, allergic reactions, or improper use. Stick to reputable brands, remove lipstick before bed, keep your lips moisturized, and consult a dermatologist if issues persist.’
From an oncology standpoint, the concerns seem equally overblown. Dr. Chinnababu Sunkavalli, a clinical director of surgical oncology at Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad, clarifies, ‘There’s no reliable scientific evidence that cadmium in lipsticks directly causes stomach cancer or kidney disorders in users. While cadmium is a known carcinogen, the minuscule amounts in regulated cosmetics are far below dangerous levels and aren’t linked to systemic illness when applied topically.’
Still, some worry about daily exposure to these metals. Dr. Swapna reassures that this is ‘very unlikely’ with regulated, mainstream products. ‘Heavy metals appear as trace impurities, and concentrations in reputable brands are typically below levels known to cause systemic disease,’ she notes. ‘Ingestion from occasional lip-licking or normal use is far less than many dietary exposures. However, persistent high exposure from other sources or extremely contaminated products can be harmful, so avoiding counterfeit or untested cosmetics is wise.’
But here’s a thought-provoking question: Are we focusing too much on lipstick and not enough on bigger health risks? Dr. Chinnababu points out that lifestyle factors like smoking, obesity, poor diet, and persistent viral infections play a far greater role in cancer risk than trace exposure from cosmetics. ‘Public health initiatives prioritize these higher risks,’ he says, urging people to focus on healthier habits.
When it comes to regulation, most countries, including India, enforce strict safety checks before cosmetics hit the shelves. Dr. Swapna explains, ‘Cosmetics are regulated under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, and Cosmetics Rules 2020. Manufacturers must control impurities, follow labeling rules, and ensure products meet safety standards.’ These laws require testing, record-keeping, and adherence to safe impurity limits.
For those who want extra peace of mind, Dr. Chinnababu recommends a balanced approach: ‘Buy from reliable brands, avoid counterfeit products, and look for certifications when possible. Limit use, switch up products, and review ingredient lists if concerned. But remember, a healthy diet and quitting smoking are far more critical for cancer prevention.’
So, while it’s smart to be mindful of what you put on your skin, experts agree that your lipstick is unlikely to be a health hazard—as long as it’s genuine, regulated, and used responsibly. But what do you think? Are the fears about lipstick safety overblown, or is there more to the story? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Quick Checklist to Ensure Your Lipstick is Safe:
1. Buy from reputable brands or authorized retailers.
2. Check the label: Ingredients, batch/lot number, manufacturing/expiry dates, and manufacturer/importer details.
3. Look for certified color additives or statements like ‘color additive batch certified’ where applicable.
4. Avoid suspicious claims like ‘miracle’ or ‘detox,’ and be wary of prices that seem too good to be true—these are red flags for potential contamination.
Note: There’s no single label that reads ‘heavy-metal free.’ The best protection is brand traceability and regulatory compliance. Stay informed, stay safe, and keep shining—responsibly!
