Microbial Contamination in Cosmetic Products: Identification, Characterization and Safety Implications

Presenter(s)

Sophia Taarud and Infinite Yang

Abstract

The FDA has reported that microbes can get into cosmetic products through contaminated raw materials or water, poor packaging or storage conditions, ineffective preservation system and poor manufacturing conditions. The various bacteria or fungi found within these cosmetic products pose potential health risks. The FDA does not require approval before cosmetic/hygiene products go on the market only that they must be properly labeled. This demonstrates the lack of regulation and the importance of bacterial and fungal characterization to ensure product safety and compliance with safety standards. In this study, microbiological techniques were used to identify and analyze bacteria or fungi present in a lotion sample. By performing serial dilutions, plating, staining, and a series of biochemical tests, the study aimed to determine the quantity of bacteria or fungi present, morphology, metabolic characteristics, and antibiotic susceptibility. The findings provide insight into the microbial composition of the lotion sample, emphasizing the importance of quality control in cosmetic and personal care products.

College

College of Science & Engineering

Department

Biology

Campus

Winona

First Advisor/Mentor

Kimberly Evenson

Start Date

4-24-2025 10:00 AM

End Date

4-24-2025 11:00 AM

Presentation Type

Poster Session

Format of Presentation or Performance

In-Person

Session

1b=10am-11am

Poster Number

64

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Apr 24th, 10:00 AM Apr 24th, 11:00 AM

Microbial Contamination in Cosmetic Products: Identification, Characterization and Safety Implications

The FDA has reported that microbes can get into cosmetic products through contaminated raw materials or water, poor packaging or storage conditions, ineffective preservation system and poor manufacturing conditions. The various bacteria or fungi found within these cosmetic products pose potential health risks. The FDA does not require approval before cosmetic/hygiene products go on the market only that they must be properly labeled. This demonstrates the lack of regulation and the importance of bacterial and fungal characterization to ensure product safety and compliance with safety standards. In this study, microbiological techniques were used to identify and analyze bacteria or fungi present in a lotion sample. By performing serial dilutions, plating, staining, and a series of biochemical tests, the study aimed to determine the quantity of bacteria or fungi present, morphology, metabolic characteristics, and antibiotic susceptibility. The findings provide insight into the microbial composition of the lotion sample, emphasizing the importance of quality control in cosmetic and personal care products.