Detection of Bacterial and fungal contamination in shared cosmetic products used in some beauty women's salons in Benghazi

Abstract

This study aims to identify the microbial contamination of in-use skin and eye cosmetics available as public makeup kits in beauty salons. A total of 120 samples were included in this cross-sectional study, collected from 15 randomly selected beauty salons across different regions of Benghazi between July and December 2024. Samples were transported to the laboratory under sterile conditions and examined to identify bacterial and fungal species.

The results revealed that all tested cosmetics were contaminated, with bacteria found in 76.4% of samples and fungi/yeast in 23.5%. Staphylococcus epidermidis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, and Candida were the dominant species isolated. The highest rate of microbial contamination was found in skin products (50%), while the lowest was in eye products (26.5%). Regarding fungal contamination, cream-based products showed the highest rate (70.8%), followed by mascara (20.8%), lip gloss (16.6%), and brushes (11.5%).

The findings indicate that shared cosmetic products in beauty salons are heavily contaminated with various microorganisms. Therefore, it is strongly recommended to avoid sharing cosmetic tools and products, refrain from using public makeup in salons, and ensure that products are stored in dry, appropriate conditions.