MICROBIAL CONTAMINATION OF SELECTED FEMALE COSMETIC PRODUCTS (LIPGLOSS) SOLD IN RETAIL SHOPS AKUNGBA-AKOKO
Abstract
Cosmetic products, including lip gloss, are susceptible to microbial contamination due to their composition, which often includes water, organic compounds, and minerals that provide a fertile ground for microorganisms. Contamination can occur at various stages, including manufacturing, storage, and especially during consumer use. A total of 5 lip gloss samples were randomly selected and subjected to rigorous microbiological analysis, including total viable bacterial and fungal counts and specific screening for Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus aureus and Klebsiella pneumoniae. The results revealed that a significant proportion of the samples exhibited microbial contamination beyond acceptable limits, with the highest contamination rates observed in products lacking adequate preservative systems or proper packaging integrity. Sugar fermentation, motility, and urease tests further supported identification, showing both pathogenic and environmental bacterial species. Antibiotic susceptibility patterns indicated that Bacillus cereus and Bacillus subtilis were highly sensitive to several antibiotics, while Staphylococcus aureus exhibitmarked resistance. Molecular analysis revealed the presence of antimicrobial resistance genes. PCR assays amplified tetA and tetB (tetracycline resistance) and cmlA (chloramphenicol resistance), confirming the persistence of resistance determinants among isolates. The study recommends routine microbial screening and improved labeling transparency to safeguard public health.
Full-Text Access Notice
In accordance with the NERD Policy on promoting peer-reviewed publication, public access to the full text of a project, thesis or dissertation is restricted for three years, allowing the author and supervisors sufficient time to pursue peer-reviewed publication.
During this period, researchers with legitimate academic or research purposes may request authorisation directly from the author to enable NERD to release the indexed full texts of the work using the form below.