Cosmetic Safety Practices and Adverse Effects Among Female Students: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Cosmetics, defined by the FDA as products intended to cleanse, enhance beauty, or alter appearance, serve various roles from hygiene to improving quality of life. While users are often aware of potential risks, their actual safety behaviors remain inconsistent. Methods: This cross-sectional study surveyed 803 female students at An-Najah National University, Palestine, using a self-administered questionnaire with voluntary participation. The survey covered demographic details, types of facial cosmetics used, usage patterns, safety behaviors (such as consulting healthcare professionals, allergy testing, hygiene practices, reading product instructions, and discarding expired products), reported side effects, and how these were managed. Ethical clearance was secured, confidentiality upheld, and data analyzed with SPSS using descriptive statistics and Chi-squared tests ( p  < 0.05 considered significant). Results: Although most participants selected products according to skin type and preferred professional retail sources, many failed to consult specialists or conduct allergy tests. Hygiene behaviors like cleaning application tools and removing makeup before sleep were widely practiced, yet reading product instructions and discarding expired items were often overlooked, even though nearly 90% acknowledged potential harm from cosmetics. Adverse reactions such as skin irritation and acne were significantly more common in those who ignored skin-type compatibility or specialist consultation. Extended cosmetic use (> 3 years) was associated with increased acne and clogged pores. Certain products—especially face whiteners, primers, moisturizers, and foundation—were strongly linked to specific side effects. Notably, routine actions like allergy testing or bedtime removal did not significantly reduce adverse outcomes. Conclusion: Despite high awareness of cosmetic risks, many users fail to adopt appropriate safety measures. Improved education, product reformulation, clearer labeling, and healthcare engagement are essential to reduce harm.