The Lab
Specimen No. 0016
AvoidSyntheticheavy metalcolorant

Lead / Lead Acetate

lead acetate · lead · ci 77266

Heavy metal used historically as a hair darkening agent. The FDA banned lead acetate in hair dyes in 2018 due to neurotoxicity and carcinogenicity.

high confidence
Researched April 18, 2026

Concerns

  • Neurotoxin — no safe level of lead exposure (CDC)
  • FDA banned in hair coloring products (2018)
  • Carcinogen (IARC Group 2A)
  • Accumulates in bone over time

Regulatory flags

  • FDA banned in hair dye products (2020)
  • IARC Group 2A carcinogen
  • WHO: no safe level of lead exposure

Commonly found in

Hair color products (legacy)Some lipsticks (trace contamination)Kohl eyeliner (traditional)

Research disclaimer: This rating is based on available peer-reviewed research and regulatory assessments at the time of publication. It is not medical advice. Consult a qualified professional for personal health or skin concerns.

Check another ingredient

Search our database of scored cosmetic, food, and household ingredients — or scan a full product label.

Open the Ingredient Lab

Embed this verdict

LabelCleared verdict badge: Lead / Lead Acetate — Avoid
<a href="https://labelcleared.com/lab/lead-acetate"><img src="https://labelcleared.com/embed/lead-acetate/badge.svg" alt="LabelCleared verdict badge: Lead / Lead Acetate — Avoid" height="34"></a>