Tests of popular face paints used for Halloween costumes have prompted a consumer group to issue a new health warning for lead contamination.

Though all of the products tested don't violate the Food and Drug Administration's limits on lead and metals, critics argue lead should not be in any children's products. The Centers For Disease Control and Prevention has found that lead exposure can cause developmental problems and critics say any amount -- no matter how small -- is too dangerous.

"You are dealing with something that is highly toxic to the nervous system and these effects can be irreversible," said Dr. Samuel Epstein, chairman of the Cancer Prevention Coalition.

The report, sponsored by the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, says the products are safe but found traces of lead in 10 products easily available in stores and on the Internet.

Six of the products contained traces of nickel, cobalt and/or chromium. Some of the products tested include Alex Face Paint, Mehron Glow In The Dark Fantasy F-X, Snazaroo Face Painting Kit, Jovi Make-Up and Mehron 6-Pack Greasepaint Crayons.

The agency representing the cosmetics industry, the Personal Care Products Council, released a statement that read in part: "The trace levels of naturally occurring heavy metals reportedly found in the products are well below the allowable levels set by FDA for approved colors and do not present a safety concern."

Epstein said, "There is no such thing as a safe level of carcinogen."

FDA officials said if people choose to use face paint, it should be kept away from mouths and eyes and should not be used at all if it has a bad smell. The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics also offers homemade face paint recipes on its Web site.

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