OBJECTIVE: The current study aimed to assess the prevalence of cosmetics utilization and perceived adverse effects among female final-year undergraduate students at the University of Gondar, northwest Ethiopia. METHODS: An institutional-based cross-sectional study was carried out from October 2023 to May 2024. We used stratified, simple random sampling techniques to select study participants. Data were collected by using a self-administered questionnaire administered to trained graduate pharmacist students. EPI Info 7.1 was used for data entry, and SPSS version 26 was used for the data analysis. Descriptive statistics have been done for percentages and frequencies. We used bivariate and multiple logistic regressions to identify factors. Those variables with p <
0.05 were declared to be associated factors for the prevalence of cosmetics utilization and perceived adverse effects. RESULTS: A total of 403 study participants were included, with a response rate of (96%). In the current study, 81% of the students were using cosmetics, and 55.6% were exposed to cosmetics-related adverse reactions, primarily skin rash (41%) and itching (38.3%). The most frequently used cosmetic products were toothpaste, lipstick, deodorant, and perfume, which accounted for 83.7%, 56.8%, and 24.7%, respectively. Lower age (20-25 years) AOR = 5.62, urban residence AOR = 1.97, health-related department AOR = 2.46, economic income 501-1000 Ethiopian birr AOR = 4.05, not love engaged AOR = 3.65, and 3 and 4 years of study AOR = 2.96, with a 95% CI, were significantly associated with cosmetic usage for the students. Shampoos and conditioners AOR = 3.42
hair dye use AOR = 3.40
read information from the container AOR = 2.11
add water or other agents to cosmetics AOR = 2.26
and test Cosmetic adverse reactions AOR = 4.10, with a 95% CI, were significantly associated with cosmetics-related adverse effects. CONCLUSION: A significant proportion of the users suffered from cosmetic-related adverse reactions. The health care system should be restructured to consider rational cosmetic utilization practices and prevent adverse health effects.