Assessment of Heavy Metal Concentration in Some Selected
Cosmetic Products and Human Health Risk in Eleme LGA, Rivers
State, Nigeria

Yorgwara; Firstlady Barioma; Okpara Kingsley; Owhonka Aleruchi

doi:10.56201/rjpst.vol.9.no2.2026.pg20.37

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Assessment of Heavy Metal Concentration in Some Selected Cosmetic Products and Human Health Risk in Eleme LGA, Rivers State, Nigeria

Yorgwara, Firstlady Barioma, Okpara Kingsley, Owhonka Aleruchi

Abstract

This research examined the levels of heavy metals in beauty products and assessed their potential health risks to individuals in the Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State, Nigeria. The main goals included measuring the levels of heavy metals in cosmetics, analyzing daily skin exposure, and gauging possible health risk from regular use. Cosmetic samples were tested for the presence of six (6) heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Cr, As, Hg and Co) in facial powders, lip sticks, eye pencils, eye shadows, foundations, bathing soaps, body creams, roll-on, perfumes, hair creams, hair dyes, hair conditioners, shampoos. Metal concentrations in these products were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS) after acid digestion. Findings indicated that heavy metals were detected in every product sampled, with concentrations in analyzed samples ranked as Co > Cr > Pb > Hg > As > Cd. While the majority of metal concentrations fell within international established safety limits, some products contained chromium and cadmium at levels above the recommended thresholds. The Chronic Daily Exposure (CDE) values were below the Maximum Tolerable Daily Intake limits. Both the Hazard Quotient (HQ) and Hazard Index (HI) were below 1.0, suggesting a low risk for non-carcinogenic effects. Lifetime Cancer Risk (LCR) values were also within the acceptable range of 10⁻⁶–10⁻⁴. Nevertheless, assessments of Systemic Exposure Dosage (SED) and Margin of Safety (MoS) indicated higher risks associated with commonly used items like soaps, perfumes, roll-ons, and colored facial products. Despite current risk levels being generally deemed acceptable, prolonged use could lead to cumulative exposure and potential longterm health issues. The study advocates for stricter regulatory measures, enhanced manufacturing standards, and ongoing monitoring to protect public health.

Keywords

Heavy Metal ConcentrationCosmeticsHealth Risk Assessment

References

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Assessment of Heavy Metal Concentration in Some Selected Cosmetic Products and Human Health Risk in Eleme LGA, Rivers State, Nigeria

Abstract

Keywords

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