Too embarrassed to ask your doctor about sex, body quirks, or the latest celeb health fad? In a regular feature and a new book, "What the Yuck?!," Health magazine medical editor Dr. Roshini Raj tackles your most personal and provocative questions. Send 'em to Dr. Raj at whattheyuck@health.com.

Q: Is it true there's lead in my red lipstick?

This is one internet rumor that's true. Some red lipsticks do contain lead. In fact, a few independent studies by the Food and Drug Administration and the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics have found low levels of lead in many red tubes, and not just the cheap ones. Some really expensive brands pack more lead than drugstore lipsticks.

What's the harm in lead? While this toxic metal is far more dangerous to children (another reason you may not want a lead-loaded tube in your handbag), it can harm adults, too, building up in our bodies over time and causing high blood pressure and anemia, as well as reproductive and neurological problems.

But don't panic - there hasn't been a single reported case of lead poisoning from lip color.

Still, why chance it? Although the levels are low (less than you get from drinking tap water in many areas of the country), if you reapply your "poppy red" several times a day, it could build up in your body. So it makes sense to check Safecosmetics.org and see if your favorite brand is safe.

Copyright Health Magazine 2011