Lead levels in some eye cosmetics used in Bahrain

This paper presents an analysis of lead in some surma, khol and other eye cosmetics used mainly for young children in Bahrain. The concentration of lead ranged from 0.07 to 156 mg/g and averaged 18.5 mg/g. Grey samples were found to have higher lead levels than black ones. Although these concentrations were significantly lower than those reported in the literature, they are nevertheless hazardous and should be taken seriously by health authorities. Our findings and recommendations are reported to preyent further poisoning of children through the use of these products. This problem is also found in India, Pakistan, and Kuwait as well as in the Asian communities in European countries, such as the United Kingdom.