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"[These levels are] unlikely to actively harm most children, but they could, so why do it?" he added.

This new study used a technology called "inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry" to assess lead levels in 22 different lipsticks, all in shades of red.

According to the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, the average level of lead found in the lipsticks -- 1.7 parts per million -- is more than 10 times higher than the standard imposed on candy.

The group called on the FDA to "immediately set standards to require manufacturers to minimize lead in lipstick to the lowest achievable levels."

FDA does have authority to regulate color additives in cosmetics, but not other ingredients.

The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics study from 2007 tested 33 top-brand lipsticks sold in the United States and showed that more than half had detectable levels of lead, with 11 exceeding 0.1 parts per million, the federal lead limit for candy.

L'Oreal, Cover Girl, Christian Dior and Maybelline were among the brands found to have high lead levels. For example, L'Oreal Colour Riche True Red had a lead content of 0.65 parts per million, L'Oreal Colour Riche Classic Wine had 0.58 parts per million and Cover Girl's IncrediFull Lipcolor Maximum Red had 0.56 parts per million.

In the current study, FDA said that lipsticks from three manufacturers had the highest amounts of lead, but it did not specify the brands.

"It's apparent that basically no lead is really good for you, so if you're a company that's making a cosmetic, why include lead at all when you can make a perfectly equal adequate product without lead?" Palfrey said.

The burden of facilitating change rests largely with consumers, he added.

"Don't buy it," Palfrey said.

On its Web site, the U.S. Cente
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