I have been a Hashmi Kajal addict for years now just like so many other women and was mortified to find out that my all time favorite and most inexpensive cosmetic contains lead! I literally had every one of my friends and clients hooked on this stuff! Needless to say I am still devistated and have been forced to try so many different “khols” out on the market and am not 100% sold yet. If you have been using any Hashmi products by Surma, please stop! I have tried Guerlain’s loose powder eye khol which is available in different colors and retails for $33.00 and seems to be my favorite so far. I have also used MAC powperpoint eye pencil is Feline which was a limited color, but the pigment was so intense (much more than smolder!) which gave a very dramatic look to the eye, but doesn’t stay so well. Anyway, here is some information that I found online just to back up this horrible news: (Found out http://www.nyc.gov/html/doh/html/lead/lead-import-eyecos.shtml)

Kohl, Kajal and Surma Products Containing Lead

Information about imported kohl, kajal and surma products found to contain high levels of lead

 

What are kohl, kajal and surma?

Kohl, kajal and surma are eye cosmetics imported from Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Some of these products contain lead. Some people using these products have suffered lead poisoning.

Why is lead dangerous?

Lead is a poisonous metal that can damage the brain, nervous system, reproductive system, kidneys and other parts of the body. Children and pregnant women who use products containing lead are especially at risk.

How does lead from kohl, kajal or surma get into the body?

When a person uses these products, some of the kohl, kajal or surma can get onto the hands. The user may then ingest the lead through hand-to-mouth contact. Some lead may also be absorbed through the eyes.

Which types of kohl, kajal and surma contain lead?

There are many varieties and manufacturers of kohl, kajal and surma. Any of them can contain lead. Recently, the New York City Health Department found the following products to be contaminated:

  • Hashmi Surma Special, made in Pakista
  • Hashmi Kajal, made in Pakistan
  • Hashmi Kohl Aswad, made in Pakistan
  • “Pure Kohl From the Waters of ZamZam”
How can I know if my kohl, kajal or surma contains lead?

It is difficult for users of these products to tell the difference between safe and dangerous brands. A product may contain high levels of lead even if lead is not listed as an ingredient on the label.

What should I do if I have used kohl, kajal or surma?
  • Immediately stop using these products.
  • Call a physician to request a blood test for lead.
  • Keep products away from children.
  • Call 311 or 212 POISONS ( 212-764-7667 ) for more information about lead in kohl, kajal or surma. Interpretation services are available.

DanicaBWsignature Go ahead ChatBack (Click on comments below) to me while you’re here . I would love to hear your feedback,  and input.  I’m listening. Have a makeup  or bridal question go ahead an email me at danica@askamakeupguru.com .

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