Probable Contamination of Staphylococcus aureus in Lipsticks Sold in Selected Kiosks in Lucena City

Cosmetic production does not have to be sterile, but must follow good manufacturing practices (GMP, 2014). The microbial contamination via raw materials, ingredients, handling procedures, manufacturing process, storage, packaging conditions, and preservative system, are factors that inhibits the growth and contamination of various pathogenic bacteria, one of which is Staphylococcus aureus. This study aimed to determine which among the unbranded lipstick samples sold in selected kiosks in Lucena City exceeds the microbial limit for cosmetics and is contaminated with the opportunistic pathogen Staphylococcus aureus that poses risk to lipstick users. Results show that Staphylococcus aureus contamination was present in all five (5) lipstick samples with bacterial load above the prescribed limits. The use of such products can cause mild to severe infections to its users. Therefore, it is recommended for users to avoid the use of non-branded lipsticks and use good quality lipsticks.