Microbiological analysis of creams

Cosmetic products are intended to protect, clean, provide a pleasant scent, etc. to external parts of the human body such as skin and mucosa are used for different purposes. Since cosmetic products do not have to be sterile, the risk of contamination always remains important. According to Article 6 of the Turkish Cosmetics Regulation, the production of any cosmetic product offered to the market must be under certain conditions and the application must be carried out by paying attention to the presentation, labeling and explanations regarding the use of the product. According to the cosmetics law, cosmetic products must be thoroughly microbiologically analyzed for the health of the users. Since creams are cosmetic products that do not have to be sterile, it is possible to encounter various microorganisms. Microorganisms in cosmetic products must not be pathogenic and their unit amount must not exceed the specified limit. Products such as creams provide an environment suitable for contamination due to the nutrients they contain that enable the growth of microorganisms. Within the scope of this thesis study, some cream samples obtained from the market were examined microbiologically and the contamination levels of the products were determined. Bacterial contamination was found in one of the 10 products studied, and mold contamination was found in one. The unit bacterial contamination counted in the product is above the legal limit. Since creams appeal to a wide range of consumers from all age groups, it is thought that the results of the study will be useful in measuring the health reliability of the products on the market.