Lipsticks are tested by a lead indicator solution. A lipstick is swiped across a sheet of wax paper, forming a lipstick sample. The test solution is applied, in droplet form, to the sample of lipstick, and allowed to sit for a period of time so a chemical change can occur in the solution, if there is lead present in the lipstick. A cotton swab is used to absorb the solution, and the tip of the swab picks up a bit of the lipstick sample. A color change is observed in the solution on the swab if lead is present in the lipstick. The amount of lead is determined by what color the solution changes to.