Contribution of Hair Care Products in Heavy Metals Exposure in Pakistan

Abstract

Products used for hair care by humans are essential for cleaning, protection, perfuming, and beautification. These are applied directly on the skin and can be a potential factor for dermal exposure to toxic metals. The present research deals with the assessment of heavy metals in the hair care products available in the local markets of Karachi, Pakistan. A total of 20 brands of shampoo and 05 brands of conditioners were collected in triplicate and analyzed for 10 heavy metals (Fe, Mn, Cr, Ni, Cu, Co, Pb, Cd, Zn, and Hg) by atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Toxic metals were found to be higher in conditioner than in shampoo of respective color and brand. Ni and Zn concentrations have exceeded the maximum permissible limits. Consumers belonging to the lower class are more vulnerable to heavy metals exposure because of the high metal content in low-cost products. These results suggested that hair care products should also be considered as one of the sources of heavy metals exposure.