Eyeshadows found to contain too much lead and bacteria
Consumers warned to stop using two make-up brands that tests show exceed safety limits
Consumers should stop using two eyeshadow products that contain excessive lead and bacteria, the Consumer Council warned yesterday.
VOV Eyeshadow Soft-light Shine had a lead content of 400 parts per million (ppm) - far above the 40ppm safety limit under the national Hygienic Standard for Cosmetics - the council said.
Philip Leung Kwong-hon, vice-chairman of the council's publicity and community relations committee, said the excessive lead could harm the nervous system and kidney functions.
Contamination was found when the consumer watchdog tested 41 kinds of eyeshadow - 33 single-colour and eight multi-colour products - with retail prices ranging from HK$10 to HK$260.
The Cosmetic and Perfumery Association of Hong Kong says it is normal for cosmetic products to contain lead, as most are made of natural substances that contain the metal. But the amount must meet safety standards.
Connie Lau Yin-hing, the council's chief executive, called for new laws requiring manufacturers to list product ingredients and expiry dates. Currently, cosmetic products sold in the city are regulated by the Consumer Good Safety Ordinance.