Introduction:
The objective of this study was to determine the rate of adverse reactions to cosmetics in female students of the Medical University of Silesia in Katowice and to determine the type of disorders and cosmetic products most commonly associated with dermatological problems.

Materials and methods:
One hundred and eighty four students of the School of Pharmacy with the Division of Laboratory Medicine participated in the survey study. The questionnaire contained questions regarding development of adverse effects to cosmetic product, type of cosmetic products causing those effects, type and time of an adverse reaction. The students were also asked about adverse reactions reporting to physicians, and awareness of availability of that option.

Results:
The study demonstrated that 39.1% students have experienced an adverse reactions to cosmetic product. Irritation reactions caused by a face cream were the most common. Redness was the dominating sign of irritation, and changes involved the whole face.

Conclusions:
The study demonstrated that adverse reactions to cosmetic product were relatively frequent in participating students (39.1% of all participants). The study demonstrated that very few students know about the possibility to report adverse reaction.