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Quick answer: Both score equally on our risk model. Lead acetate is banned in the EU and allowed in the US; Mercury compounds is banned in the EU and allowed in the US.
| Property | Lead acetate | Mercury compounds |
|---|---|---|
| EU status | Banned | Banned |
| US status | Allowed | Allowed |
| Risk level | high | high |
| Banned in | European Union | European Union |
| Restricted in | — | — |
| Category | heavy metal | heavy metal |
| Where it hides | progressive hair dye, men's hair color | skin-lightening cream, mascara |
Lead acetate is a lead compound used in progressive darkening hair dyes.
Mercury compounds is mercury and mercury salts used as preservatives and skin lighteners.
Lead acetate: Lead is a potent neurotoxin with no safe level. Banned in EU cosmetics; the US FDA revoked its authorization in 2018.
Mercury compounds: Mercury is a potent neurotoxin. Banned in EU cosmetics; the US limits it to trace levels but enforcement gaps allow contaminated imports.
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