Aspects of Adverse Effects of Cosmetic Products: An Invited Narrative Review

The use of cosmetic products is ubiquitous around the world. This article reviews the medical literature documenting adverse effects associated with cosmetic product use. An extensive, nonexhaustive literature search was conducted using the PubMed database. Studies reporting adverse effects from cosmetic products were included, encompassing case reports, case series, clinical trials and epidemiological studies. Contact dermatitis is the most common adverse effect associated with cosmetic use, affecting approximately 1-5% of the general population. Additional effects, including respiratory sensitization, photosensitization, workplace exposures and issues specific to pregnancy/lactation, are discussed. The clinical significance of these effects remains poorly understood, particularly regarding long-term exposure and cumulative health impacts. Cosmetic usage can result in a spectrum of adverse effects that represent significant clinical and public health concerns.