Prevalence, Determinants and Adverse Events of Cosmetics use among University Female Students: A study in Egypt

Abstract

Background: Concern regarding the potential for health risks associated with chemicals used in cosmetic products is well documented. Cosmetics are commonly used by women. Cosmetics may have allergic, irritating, and harmful effects on human health. Aim of the study: The present study aims to estimate the point prevalence and to identify determinant and adverse events of cosmetics use among female students at Mansoura University. Subjects & Methods: The study was conducted among 790 female students selected from Mansoura university through stratified cluster sampling with proportional allocation. Data were collected through self-administered structured questionnaire. Results: Overall prevalence of cosmetic product use was 87.5%. Student age, residence, family size and income were found to be statistically significant predictors for cosmetic use. About 61% of the students used cosmetics for beautification purpose, while only 26.5% used it for disinfection and 21.1% for treatment. Only 21.9% checked whether cosmetic they used was tested on animals or not and 46.7% of them tested cosmetic for allergic reaction. From 691 cosmetic users, 84.7% self-reported ever experience of at least one adverse event due to cosmetic products. About half of them attained cosmetics from local shops. Conclusion: Overall prevalence and self-reported adverse reaction of cosmetic product use were high among university female students. Recommendation: The development of educational intervention to raise female awareness about harmful effects of the chemicals contained in cosmetics after prolonged use is important.