Compared with the expected number of adverse
reactions to cosmetics in the Swedish general population
(5), very few side effects have been reported to the
MPA (9). Most reports concern cases with positive
patch tests to the suspected products, thus excluding
the probably most common group of consumers –
those who experience irritant reactions. In order to gain
more knowledge about adverse reactions to cosmetics,
the MPA has initiated studies on the use, adverse
effects and contact allergy elicited by these products. In
a previous study (5), 1077 young people were asked to
fill in a questionnaire about their use and adverse
effects of cosmetics and skin care products during the
preceding 5 years. Of these, 18% of the women and 6%
of the men reported that they had experienced such
adverse effects. They were interviewed personally and