| Abstract |
Our project focused on investigating whether commonly used makeup products, specifically concealers, could contribute to skin issues like acne and flare-ups by harbouring bacteria or mould. Concealers are frequently used to cover blemishes and redness, making them an ideal product to test for microbial contamination.
We selected six new, unopened concealers from different brands to see if they could grow mould when exposed to conditions like daily use. Our hypothesis was that certain concealers, due to their formulation or packaging, might be more prone to contamination. We used petri dishes, nutrient agar, sterile cotton swabs, and an incubator to simulate a makeup bag environment. After preparing the petri dishes with nutrient agar, we swabbed each concealer and applied the samples to the dishes, which were then incubated for two weeks. To replicate warmth and moisture, we covered the incubator with a lab coat.
At the end of the experiment, we found that some concealers showed significant mould growth, while others had minimal contamination. This variation could be due to differences in preservatives, packaging, or exposure to air. Our findings underscore the importance of being cautious with makeup products, as mould can contribute to skin issues. It’s essential to regularly check expiration dates, avoid sharing cosmetics, and practise proper hygiene to reduce the risk of contamination and skin problems.
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