A beauty clay sold at major retail outlets may put users at risk for lead poisoning, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration warned Friday.

Alikay Naturals Bentonite Me Baby is sold online and in retail stores, including Target, Amazon.com and Sally Beauty Supply, according to the FDA. Alikay Naturals’ website claims that the clay purifies and clarifies both skin and hair.

However, FDA lab tests found elevated levels of lead in the clay and consumers should not use the product, the agency said in a news release.

Lead can harm the central nervous system, kidneys and immune system. In children, lead exposure can lead to thinking and behavioral problems, the agency added.

The FDA said it first learned of the high lead content in the clay from the Minnesota Department of Health, but there have not been any confirmed cases of lead poisoning associated with the clay.

Anyone who has used the product or given it to a child should consult a doctor immediately, the FDA added.

According to the company’s website, the clay is made from aged volcanic ash and the product should only be used once a week on the face and no more than twice a month on the hair.

More information

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has more about lead.

Source: HealthDay