Cosmetics utilization pattern and related adverse reactions among female university students

Cosmetics are articles applied to the human body for cleansing, beautifying or promoting attractiveness. Studies showed that cosmetics are causing alarming adverse reactions to consumers. The study aimed to assess cosmetics utilization pattern and common cosmetics related adverse reactions among female university students. A cross-sectional study was conducted on participants selected by stratified and then systematic sampling technique. Data were collected by using semi-structured questionnaire through trained pharmacists. Epi-info 3.5.1 and SPSS version-12 were used for data entry and analysis, respectively. The study showed that 710(97.8%) of the participants had a habit of using cosmetics. Most frequently used cosmetics were body lotions(76.0%) and deodorants(74.0%). Adverse reactions were encountered by 131(18.4%) of cosmetics users primarily on their face and hair mainly due to deodorant and lotion. There was a significant association between economic status of the students and cosmetics use. Occurrence of cosmetics related adverse reactions was significantly associated with the number of cosmetics used per day, source of cosmetics and cosmetics sharing. A significant proportion the users suffered from cosmetics related adverse reactions. The students need to be aware on rational cosmetics utilization practices.