Survey of micro-organisms associated with spoilage of cosmetic creams manufactured in South Africa.

Synopsis Two studies were conducted to determine the predominant micro-organisms found in spoiled cosmetic creams manufactured in South Africa. The products evaluated included facial creams and hand and body lotions. Spoiled cosmetic creams were obtained from different manufacturers and analysed microbiologically for the presence of bacteria, yeasts and moulds. The frequency and relative density (percentage) of micro-organisms isolated from naturally spoiled creams were calculated. Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Enterobacter gergoviae were the most predominant bacteria, whilst Candida parapsilosis and Aspergillus flavus were the most predominant yeast and mould, respectively. Of all the samples examined, approximately two-thirds (69%) were due to microbial spoilage. This study highlighted the importance of adopting suitable quality control guidelines for the local cosmetics industry, similar to those currently used by international cosmetics manufacturers.