Heavy Metals Content in Selected Cream Marketed in Gusau Metropolis, Zamfara State, Nigeria, and Associated Health Risk

Abstract

In Nigeria, the use of beauty creams is a widespread practice. This research evaluates the levels of zinc (Zn), lead (Pb) and nickel (Ni) in five (5) different beauty cream brands commonly found in Gusau Metropolis, Zamfara State using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometery (AAS). Estimated daily intake (EDI) as well as the health risk index (HRI) of these metals were also calculated to assess the dermal health risks associated with the use of the creams. The concentration of Ni (6.130±1.740 – 14.90±18.40 mg/kg was notably higher, while Pb (2.833±1.457 – 34.80±48.80 mg/kg) was lower in all samples compared to permissible limits in cosmetics (Pb: 10 mg/kg; and Ni: 0.6 mg/kg), except for brand E, which had an excessively high Pb concentration. There are currently no established limits for Zn in cosmetics. Prolonged use of these creams may lead to health risks due to toxic metal exposure through dermal route indicated by an HRI greater than 1 for all metals. Therefore, it is recommended that relevant authority such as NAFDAC and SON intensify monitoring of these toxins in beauty cream products manufactured or imported into Nigeria to safeguard public health, particularly for vulnerable groups like children and women.