Study of the Elemental Content of Some Natural and Synthetic Eye Cosmetics

Abstract

Natural and Synthetic eyeliners (kohl) are popularly and traditionally used by women, men and children in developing Countries. Recent studies showed that kohl might have hazardous and toxic elements in its elemental composition that can cause harmful impact on the health of its users. In order to obtain more information on the composition and elemental content of some natural and synthetic, commercially available kohl samples, Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX), Atomic Absorption Mass Spectroscopy (AAS-MS), Neutron Activation Analysis (NAA) and elemental analysis measurements were performed. The results indicate that among the studied samples, the highest lead containing sample is the natural unprocessed one taken from Africa that was rich in Galena (lead sulfide) phase (space group: Fm 3m), While the lowest concentration of lead was found in the synthetic one taken from France. The studies highlight the medical and environmental implication of using eye liners.