Non-destructive analysis of Mercury(Hg) by Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence (EDXRF) Technique in Beauty Creams sold in Kenya

Abstract

Analysis of mercury(Hg) in 100 different beauty creams by energy dispersive x-ray fluorescence technique is described. Each sample was brought to a melt by warming on a water bath at 40-50°C, and then poured onto a 2.5 cm diameter mylar-backed aluminium ring so as to acquire the configuration of a homogenous pellet when cooled. No other physical or chemical treatments were applied to the sample. Results of our mercury level measurements and unalysis (ug/g) showed that: (a) the detection limit for the detector system was 3.3; (b) "Madonna" (green) (n=lO) had the highest level of mercury - 2,9000 ± 2800; (c) "Madonna"(red) (n=lO) had level of 18000 ± 1700; (d) "Pimplex" creamme l O) had 6800 ± 690; (e) "Shirley"(original) (n=lO) registered 14000 ± 1100; (f) "Bestlady" cream registered 13000 ± 1300; (g) "Topsine" (n= 10) had 1600 ± 150; (h) "Fennel" (n=10) had 4300 ± 430; (i) "Shirley"(new), "Dermovate" and "Topshirley" creams (n=10 each), registered mercury levels below detection limit; U) There was a significant difference (p<0.001) in the results for "Madonna"(red), "Pimplex" and "Shirley" (original) for batches bought during March and September, 1995. The health implications on some of these high levels of mercury present in some beauty creams in Kenya is discussed.