Document Type
Article
Source of Publication
Frontiers in Toxicology
Publication Date
1-1-2025
Abstract
Background: The use of perfumes and cosmetic products is widespread, serving personal hygiene, aesthetic, and olfactory functions. However, concerns have been raised regarding the potential health impacts associated with long-term exposure to various ingredients used in these products. Objectives: This narrative review aims to synthesize evidence on the health risks associated with perfumes and cosmetics, focusing on specific health concerns, including fertility, respiratory health, cancer risk, allergies, skin disorders, endocrine disruption, and neurological effects. It also discusses the presence of heavy metals in cosmetics, regulatory challenges, and the need for transparency in ingredient disclosure. Methods: A comprehensive review of the literature that was published between 2005 and 2024 was conducted, examining findings from interdisciplinary studies relevant to the health impacts of cosmetic and fragrance products. The review highlights health concerns linked to specific chemical components, including synthetic chemicals such as phthalates, parabens, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Results: The findings indicate that many synthetic chemicals in perfumes and cosmetics are associated with adverse health outcomes. These include allergies, respiratory issues, endocrine disruption, reproductive problems, and potentially cancer. Heavy metals in cosmetics also pose significant health risks. Despite regulatory guidelines, the cumulative and long-term effects of combined exposure to multiple cosmetic ingredients remain poorly understood and inadequately addressed. Conclusion: There is a pressing need for stricter regulatory oversight and improved transparency in ingredient disclosure to safeguard consumer health. Further research is required to clarify the long-term health risks associated with the daily use of cosmetic products and to develop safer alternatives.
DOI Link
ISSN
Publisher
Frontiers Media SA
Volume
7
Disciplines
Medicine and Health Sciences
Keywords
consumer safety, cosmetics, endocrine disruption, health risks, heavy metals, Perfumes, regulatory guidelines, synthetic chemicals
Scopus ID
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Recommended Citation
Alblooshi, Sharifa, "The impact of perfumes and cosmetic products on human health: a narrative review" (2025). All Works. 7544.
https://zuscholars.zu.ac.ae/works/7544
Indexed in Scopus
yes
Open Access
yes
Open Access Type
Gold: This publication is openly available in an open access journal/series