Our recent test of face paints illustrates the need for parents to take extra care when they let their kids loose on cheap stuff. Out of the 15 paints we tested, one had seriously high levels of lead and it has been removed from sale, one contained a restricted preservative, another a colouring agent which should only have brief contact with the skin, one had high levels of another metal (antimony) and six lacked proper labelling.
Young children are particularly at risk from exposure to lead which can cause developmental and health problems. Trace levels of lead were found in other tested products but were within the tolerance level of current rules.
Proper labelling is part of the Cosmetic Products Group Standard, which regulates face paints. But several products we bought, including the Carnival Colors kit which had the high levels of lead, failed to provide an ingredients list or to meet other basic labelling requirements.
All the face paints claimed they were “safe” or “nontoxic”, but this doesn’t mean much. Most warned not to apply the paint near the eyes, lips or to sensitive or broken skin. But these warnings were on the back of the pack in fine print.
Allergies to cosmetic ingredients are rare but can be serious. If your child has a reaction, stop using the product and consult your GP. You can also call Healthline for advice on 0800 611 116.
By Sue Chetwin CEO Consumer NZ
Image: Alana Landsberry/ bauersyndication.com.au
