Amazingly, reports of lead residing in lipstick have been springing up since the 1990s, periodically resurfacing since then. Meanwhile, the FDA continues to assert that such ‘low levels’ of lead exposure is perfectly safe. Despite the fact that kissing, eating, or drinking with lipstick can lead to ingestion (not even mentioning the fact that topical use can still result in exposure), the FDA says that since you aren’t eating the lipstick there is nothing to worry about.

The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics has been leading the charge against lead in lipstick products for years, calling upon the FDA to act. In 2007 the organization tested 33 red lipsticks and reported that two-thirds of the tested products contained lead. What’s more is that one-third exceeded the FDA’s lead limit for candy. As the agency has taken no action, reports continue to surface regarding the presence of not only lead, but mercury in common food and personal care items as well.