Is Lead safe during pregnancy?
Lead can harm a developing baby. Avoid imported kohl/surma, unlabeled lip products and folk remedies that may contain it.
What the sources say
MotherToBaby says high lead levels in pregnancy are linked to miscarriage, low birth weight and effects on the baby's brain, and lists cosmetics among possible sources. FDA warns traditional eyeliners (kohl, kajal, surma) often contain large amounts of lead, and recommends lead in lip and other cosmetics stay under 10 ppm (over 99% of US products do). FDA has also moved to repeal approval of lead acetate in hair dyes. Breastfeeding depends on blood lead level; ask your clinician if exposed.
Also listed as
lead acetate, plumbum
Sources
- MotherToBaby: Lead
- FDA: Lead in Cosmetics
- FDA: Kohl, Kajal, Al-Kahal, Surma, Tiro, Tozali, or Kwalli: By Any Name, Beware of Lead Poisoning
- FDA: Hair Dyes
Last reviewed . This is general information, not medical advice. Ask your doctor or midwife about your own situation.