Abstract

A SURVEY ON ADVERSE REACTIONS RELATED TO COSMETICS AND SKINCARE PRODUCTS

Saumya Singh Rathore*, Deepak Katiyar, Archita Sharma, Ruby Shah, Divya, Kratika Sachan

ABSTRACT

Background: The global cosmetics market exceeds USD 600 billion and continues to expand rapidly, driven by increased consumer awareness and rising demand for personal care. Despite regulatory advances, adverse drug-like reactions (ADRs) to cosmetic and skincare formulations remain a significant public health concern, affecting millions of users worldwide. This review systematically examines the epidemiology, clinical spectrum, causative ingredients, pathophysiology, risk factors, diagnostic methods, regulatory landscapes, and management strategies of cosmeticrelated adverse reactions. Methods: A narrative review of peer-reviewed literature published between 1985 and 2024 was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase. A supplementary cross-sectional survey was performed involving 500 participants across urban and semi-urban regions of India to provide primary data. Results: The overall ADR prevalence across studies ranged from 18.3% to 41.7%, with contact dermatitis being the most frequently reported reaction. Key offending ingredients included fragrances, preservatives, hair-coloring agents, and skin-lightening compounds. Female gender, younger age, dry or sensitive skin type, and frequent cosmetic use were identified as major risk factors. Regulatory disparities between regions were noted, with the EU maintaining the most stringent safety standards. Conclusions: Strengthened surveillance, ingredient transparency, mandatory patch testing advocacy, and harmonized international regulations are critical to mitigating the burden of cosmetic-related adverse reactions. 

Keywords: cosmetic adverse reactions, contact dermatitis, fragrance allergy, preservative sensitisation, patch testing.