Characterization of a hazardous eyeliner (kohl) by confocal Raman microscopy.
A new method of analyzing kohl, a cosmetic eyeliner, using confocal Raman microscopy is reported. This technique offers an important alternative to conventional spectroscopic techniques that provide elemental/atomic composition. Raman spectra of three kohl samples have been measured between 150 and 3000 cm(-1) at room temperature. The main component of two kohl samples was found to be lead(II) sulfide (PbS). Kohl is used as a traditional cosmetic and remedy in the Middle East, Far East, and Northern Africa. Since kohl products contain very high concentrations of lead, they constitute a risk for public health, particularly for children.
American University of Sharjah, Department of Chemistry, P.O. Box 26666, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates. kjallad@ausharjah.edu
Karim N
KN
Jallad
Hartmut G
HG
Hedderich
D003358:Cosmetics / Q000737:chemistry* / Q000633:toxicity; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007854:Lead / Q000737:chemistry* / Q000633:toxicity; D007855:Lead Poisoning / Q000517:prevention & control; D018613:Microscopy, Confocal / Q000379:methods*; D013059:Spectrum Analysis, Raman / Q000379:methods*; D013440:Sulfides / Q000737:chemistry* / Q000633:toxicity
D003358:Cosmetics; D013440:Sulfides; C018391:lead sulfide; D007854:Lead