Abstract

RISK ASSESSMENT OF SOME HEAVY METALS AND POLYCYCLIC AROMATIC HYDROCARBONS IN SELECTED COSMETICS LOCALLY PRODUCED

W. F. Isegen, R. N. Asomugha*, J. O. Amendu and A. L. Asomugha

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Abstract

Heavy metals are considered as major pollutants causing environmental, cytotoxic and carcinogenic effects in animals and aquatic organisms. This study was aimed at assessing the level of some heavy metals (lead, mercury, arsenic, and cadmium) and determining the concentration of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in selected cosmetics samples produced locally. A total number of twenty (20) samples of cosmetics were analyzed. And these samples were purchased from Eke-Awka market in Awka, Anambra State. The heavy metal analysis was done using Atomic absorption spectrometer. The polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons analysis was done using the agilent gas chromatography 7890N in the gas chromatography (GC) room. And the result showed the presence of the following metals in ppm, Arsenic (

Keywords: Carcinogenic, Heavy metals, Polycyclic aromatic Hydrocarbons, Cosmetics.