Heavy Metals (Cadmium, Zinc, Nickel, Chrome, Lead, and Copper) Contamination in Kohl Available in Iran's Market

Background and Exposure to heavy metals can cause neurological, respiratory and cardiovascular disorders, imbalance of hormones, hair loss, infertility, and abortion. Kohl containing heavy metals can lead to such complications due to long-term contact with the lining of the eye. The aim of this study was to investigate the contamination level of Kohl by heavy metals (cadmium, zinc, nickel, chrome, lead, and copper) used in some Iranian cities.
Thirty samples of Kohl were prepared from 10 brands available in Iran’s market. The samples were digested by perchloric and nitric acid. Concentration of heavy metals were measured using atomic absorption spectrophotometer.
The highest concentrations measured in samples from Kohl with mean ± SD included: cadmium 2350 ± 20, chrome 2270 ± 240, lead 61900 ± 1900, nickel 3380 ± 210, zink 16190 ± 120, copper 36240 ± 250 (ng per gram) in Kohl samples. The lowest concentrations were observed with cadmium (2 ± 0.002), chrome (2 ± 0.002), lead (341 ± 0.8), nickel (3 ± 0.4), zink (1100 ± 40), and copper (9 ± 0.8 ng per gram) in all samples. The concentrations of cadmium, zinc, nickel, chrome, lead, and copper in all samples were within the range suggested by WHO.
High levels of heavy metals in noncertified Kohl are a warning. Therefore, constant vigilance is needed to ensure that allowable level of heavy metals is used in this product. Therefore, heavy metals concentration in Kohl should be determined before entering the market.