Abstract
Cosmetics and personal care products are essential for personal hygiene and appearance; however, their safety remains a key concern due to associated adverse effects. This systematic review aims to evaluate the adverse effects and safety concerns related to skincare products and to analyze product characteristics and usage patterns for improved consumer safety. The study adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and adopted diverse database searches across PubMed, Medline, Google Scholar, and Scopus from 2014-2024. Only peer-reviewed and cross-sectional studies were included along with a data extraction sheet, and the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) tool was utilized for quality assessment. Data synthesis involved descriptive and qualitative analysis to identify common themes and implications. Nine studies were included in the review, comprising 4,569 participants across geographically diverse regions. The common adverse effects reported included acne (36%), redness (27%), itching (19%), and skin irritation (18%). Ingredient analysis identified that fragrances, preservatives, and colorants are commonly related to adverse effects. Usage patterns like frequency and duration of usage were correlated with the likelihood of adverse effects. The review focused on significant adverse effects linked with cosmetic and personal care products, highlighting the necessity for better awareness, clear labels, and strict regulations. Enhanced customer education and following safety protocols are crucial to minimize risks and ensure product safety.