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Quick answer: Lead acetate carries the heavier risk profile. Lead acetate is banned in the EU and allowed in the US; Retinyl palmitate is restricted in the EU and allowed in the US.
| Property | Lead acetate | Retinyl palmitate |
|---|---|---|
| EU status | Banned | Restricted |
| US status | Allowed | Allowed |
| Risk level | high | medium |
| Banned in | European Union | — |
| Restricted in | — | European Union |
| Category | heavy metal | endocrine disruptor |
| Where it hides | progressive hair dye, men's hair color | anti-aging cream, sunscreen, lotion |
Lead acetate is a lead compound used in progressive darkening hair dyes.
Retinyl palmitate is a vitamin A ester used in anti-aging skincare and sunscreen.
Lead acetate: Lead is a potent neurotoxin with no safe level. Banned in EU cosmetics; the US FDA revoked its authorization in 2018.
Retinyl palmitate: The EU caps vitamin A levels over concerns it may accelerate skin damage in sunlight; the US does not restrict it.
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