Philippines bans the use of lead in cosmetics

After years of campaigning by environmentalists, the Philippines government announced a ban on the use of the chemical and its compounds in the production of a wide range of consumer products including cosmetics

The new regulation applies to imports, sales and distribution as well as local production. The ministry added that any violation of the ban could result in imprisonment of up to six months under the country's toxic substances law.

As a naturally occurring substance in air, water and soil, lead can often show up as a trace element in cosmetic products. Under the new regulations, any manufacturing processes that could result in the presence of the chemical in cosmetic products must be registered to the Environmental Management Bureau.

The Philippines now joins many Southeast Asian countries who have already imposed regulations due to the chemical's poisonous effects on health and the environment with widespread use.

Environment Secretary Ramon Paje said in the announcement that the ban has the intention of "reducing unreasonable risks and injuries to people as a result of their exposure to the chemical, as well as its negative impact on the environment."