Under the patronage of the Dean of the College of Science for Women, Professor Dr. Sameera Naji Khdim , the Continuing Education Unit, in cooperation with the Department of Chemistry, organized a scientific workshop entitled “Chemical Substances in Cosmetics and Their Harmful Effects on Women’s Health.” The workshop was presented by Dr. Meena Mohammed Fares and Ms. Rafal Salem Mohammed, it was attended by a number of faculty members and students.
The workshop presented a scientific overview of the most important chemical compounds used in the manufacture of cosmetic products, including preservatives, synthetic fragrances, coloring agents, and skin-lightening compounds. It also discussed their chemical properties and the mechanisms through which they affect the human body. Furthermore, the workshop highlighted some of the potential health effects resulting from the excessive or unregulated use of these products, such as skin allergies, hormonal disturbances, and the long-term impact of certain bioaccumulative compounds.
The presenters also reviewed the internationally recognized standards used in evaluating the safety of cosmetic products, emphasizing the importance of reading product labels and verifying their compliance with approved specifications and quality standards. In addition, they provided scientific guidelines aimed at enhancing women’s health awareness when selecting and using cosmetic products.
The workshop further emphasized the role of scientific research in developing safer and more environmentally friendly alternatives. It concluded by stressing the importance of promoting health and chemical awareness among students and researchers, as well as its role in supporting scientific research and improving the quality of academic studies in ways that contribute to protecting women’s health and society as a whole.
