Remember that famous scene from ‘Sex and the City 2’ where Carrie Bradshaw gets ready to meet her ex Aidan Shaw in Abu Dhabi? She completes her look with mascara, which instantly boosts her confidence.

Well, every woman who is obsessed with kajal (and there are many) will agree that just one drop of kajal can elevate the entire look. Anjan It has also spread westwards from Asia and the Middle East.

In India, kajal is not just a cosmetic for women. Many families apply it on the eyes and foreheads of babies and young children because they believe it wards off the evil eye.

However, it seems that this popular cosmetic product comes with serious health risks. A post on Axe (formerly Twitter) recently went viral, highlighting the dangers of lead poisoning associated with kohl.

Several studies have confirmed that kajal is a huge health hazard. A report by Niti Aayog and the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) highlighted high lead exposure in India, stating that several cases of lead poisoning have been reported due to the use of kajal.

Main connection

“Traditional kajal or kohl products have been treasured for generations, but it is important to be mindful about their safety. Some traditional formulations, especially those made using age-old methods or imported from certain regions, may contain lead,” says Dr Ruby Sachdev, Consultant-Aesthetic Physician at Gleneagles Hospital, Bengaluru. india today,

He said lead is sometimes used to enhance colours, but it can pose health risks, especially when applied near the eyes.

Meanwhile, Dr Akash Agarwal, consultant neurologist at Manipal Hospital, Bhubaneswar, says that kajal can actually cause lead poisoning.

“The main concern is that some forms of kajal, especially traditional or homemade kajal, contain high levels of lead. When kajal is regularly applied to the skin or lower eyelid, the lead can be absorbed into the bloodstream. Over time, this accumulation of lead can pose serious health risks,” he said.

The risks are worrying

Dr Parimala V Thirumalesh, Senior Consultant, Neonatology and Paediatrics at Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru, told us that lead is a potent neurotoxin. When ingested, inhaled or absorbed through the skin, it can cause severe damage to the nervous system.

It is important to note that lead poisoning is a serious health problem that can affect both children and adults. However, its effects vary depending on the person’s age and the duration of exposure.

“Children are particularly vulnerable to lead poisoning because their bodies absorb lead more easily, and their developing brains are more likely to be damaged,” says Dr. Aakash Agarwal.

Regular use of lead-containing mascara can cause serious health problems, including:

• learning difficulties
• Memory problems
• irritability and aggressive behavior
• developmental delays

“It can have a profound impact on children’s cognitive and behavioural development, with long-term consequences that may affect their academic performance and social interactions,” he added.

The doctor further explained that adults who are exposed to lead through regular use of kajal may also suffer adverse health effects, such as:

• Persistent abdominal pain
• Kidney dysfunction
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Cardiovascular problems
• Neurological symptoms such as headaches and, in severe cases, conditions such as Parkinsonism

According to Dr Agarwal, pregnant women are at particular risk, as lead poisoning during pregnancy can cause miscarriage, stillbirth and developmental problems in the foetus.

Know the Symptoms

Experts say it can be challenging to recognize the symptoms of lead poisoning because they often resemble other common conditions. However, some symptoms should be of concern, especially if the mascara has been used regularly.

Among children,

• unexplained weight loss
• Stomach ache
• vomit
• Headache
• Pallor or anemia
• sudden changes in behavior, such as increased irritability or aggression

In adults:

• Constant fatigue
• Memory loss
• joint and muscle pain
• digestive problems

What about the centuries-old tradition?

Dr. Rinki Kapoor, a dermatologist at The Aesthetic Clinics, Delhi, says that the tradition of applying kajal is very common among Indians due to its ability to make the eyes attractive and expressive.

She further adds, “The cooling properties of kajal such as menthol and camphor help in cooling and cleansing the eyes. It is also believed to ward off evil forces. Though this tradition has been followed for decades, the possibility of lead poisoning due to kajal cannot be ignored.”

However, according to Dr. Thirumalesh, adults should not apply kajal to babies and young children. “It can lead to hyperactivity, impulsivity, aggression, learning disabilities and low IQ,” says the doctor. He adds, “I do not recommend the use of kajal.”

What’s in your mascara?

For those looking to buy kajal, Dr Ruby Sachdev says it is advisable to choose products from reputed brands that clearly state that they are lead-free. Checking for certification or regulatory approval on the packaging can also be helpful.

However, it is important to avoid products with unclear ingredient lists or those imported without proper safety checks.

She says, “As a beauty therapist, I believe that mascara can be enjoyed safely when the right products are chosen. Use lead-free formulations, especially if you plan to use them on young children. By being informed and careful about your options, you can continue to use mascara without worry, balancing both beauty and health.”

Now, if you are thinking that you don’t need to worry as you make kajal at home, Dr. Aakash Agarwal says that it is strongly advised to avoid using homemade or locally made kajal, especially the one made by burning earthen pots during festivals.

These versions may contain varying amounts of lead, making them hazardous to health in the long term.