Beauty Products Are Not Always Harmless
Kajal, surma, eyeliners, lipsticks, sindoor, and many daily-use cosmetics are applied very close to the eyes, lips, and skin. These are areas where absorption into the bloodstream happens easily. What many people don’t realise is that some cosmetics, especially unregulated or traditionally made products, may contain lead, a toxic heavy metal. Lead does not usually cause immediate, dramatic symptoms. Instead, it builds up quietly in the body over time. This slow accumulation is what makes lead exposure especially dangerous. By the time symptoms appear, damage may already be happening inside.
Why Lead Is Found in Kajal and Cosmetics
Lead can enter cosmetics in several ways. In some products, it is intentionally added to deepen colour, especially to make kajal darker and longer-lasting. In others, it enters as contamination from raw materials, industrial pigments, or poor manufacturing processes. Many unbranded, street-sold, imported, or homemade cosmetics are not properly tested for heavy metals. Traditional kajal, often made from minerals or soot, can naturally contain lead. Because there is no regulation or quality control, users have no way of knowing what is really inside these products.
How Lead Enters the Body
When cosmetics are applied around the eyes and lips, lead can enter the body easily. It can pass through delicate skin, enter through tiny blood vessels in the eyes, or be swallowed in small amounts from lip products. Rubbing the eyes and then touching food also transfers lead into the mouth. Unlike many chemicals, lead is not easily removed from the body. It gets stored in bones and tissues, where it can remain for years. Even very small daily exposure can slowly build into toxic levels.
How Lead Damages Health
Lead is a powerful neurotoxin. It interferes with enzymes, nerve signals, blood formation, and hormone regulation. Over time, it can affect almost every major system in the body.
Effects on the Brain and Nervous System
Lead exposure can disturb normal brain function. People may experience headaches, difficulty concentrating, memory problems, mood changes, irritability, anxiety, and sleep disturbances. Long-term exposure increases the risk of nerve damage and cognitive decline. Because the nervous system controls everything from movement to emotions, lead’s impact here often shows up in many subtle but persistent ways.
Effects on Hormones and Reproductive Health
Lead disrupts the endocrine system. It can interfere with menstrual cycles, fertility, and hormonal balance. In pregnant women, lead can cross the placenta and affect the developing baby’s brain and nervous system, increasing the risk of developmental and behavioural problems. This makes cosmetic lead exposure especially concerning for women of reproductive age.
Effects on Kidneys, Liver, and Blood
The kidneys and liver work constantly to filter toxins. Lead accumulation stresses these organs, reducing their ability to detoxify the body. Over time, this may lead to chronic kidney problems. Lead also interferes with haemoglobin production, increasing the risk of anaemia, fatigue, weakness, poor immunity, and slow healing.
Why Children Are at Greater Risk
Children absorb lead more easily than adults, and their brains are still developing. Applying kajal to babies or young children can increase the risk of learning difficulties, attention problems, behavioural changes, and reduced intellectual development. Because the damage may not be immediately visible, many parents do not connect later difficulties with early exposure.
How to Reduce Your Risk
Avoid cosmetics that do not list ingredients, are extremely cheap, or are sold without certification. Be cautious with homemade, imported, or street-market products, even if they are labelled herbal or traditional. Choose brands that clearly disclose ingredients and follow safety regulations. Look for products that are dermatologically and ophthalmologically tested. Never assume natural means safe. Heavy metals are natural, too.
If You Have Used Such Products for a Long Time
There is no need for panic, but awareness is important. If you have symptoms like chronic fatigue, headaches, frequent illness, hormonal issues, or neurological complaints, consult a doctor. Blood lead testing can help assess exposure. Stopping further exposure is the most important first step.
Awareness Is the First Protection
Lead in cosmetics is not a small issue. It is a hidden public health concern. Products meant to beautify should not quietly harm the brain, organs, or future generations. Choosing safe cosmetics is not just a beauty choice. It is a health decision.
