Pyrethroids are biocides, which belong to the third generation of insecticides. They are used as biocides, insecticides and medicines. These agents react selectively, because they are less harmful to birds and mammals (due to poor intestinal absorption and rapid detoxification in the body of homeothermic organisms) and they are poisonous for fish and insects.The aim of the article is to present the current state of knowledge on the effects of pyrethroids on the immune system based on the latest scientific research.The mechanism of action of pyrethroids include the delaying closure of voltage- sensitive sodium and chloride channels (including GABA- dependent channels). These compounds are neurotoxic.Studies have shown that they cause numerous immune disorders contributing to lowering of immunity in humans and animals. Exposure to pyrethroids can cause inhibition of proliferation of peripheral blood leukocytes and reducing the concentration of IgG immunolgobulines. They also cause reduced macrophages and decrease in interleukin 2 (IL-2), interleukin 8 (IL-8), interleukin 12p70 (IL-12p70), and interferon γ (IFN-γ). Some of these compounds cause increase of liver weight and increase of bone marrow cellularity, and may induce apoptosis of the thymus. Pyrethroids can cause allergies and asthma. Their immunosuppressive effects can impair host resistance against infections. Exposure to these compounds can also contribute to induction of the cancer, especially in patients with impaired immune function.

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Introduction. The skin is one of the largest organs of the body protecting from external insults in order to maintain homeostasis. It plays many roles: in thermal, electrolyte, hormonal, metabolic, and immune regulation. Proper pH of skin plays a role in creation of skin barrier and resistance to external agents. Cl 2 and Fe may irritate skin. If noxious factors are strong, they damage the tissues under the skin. When the insult is severe enough to overwhelm the protective function of the skin, it may manifest itself with acute or chronic skin injury. Therefore, it is important to know if the used skin products are safe.Aim. The objective of the study was to determine pH, Cl 2 and Fe content in selected cosmetics. Material and methods. A total of 62 skin product samples were collected and divided into 4 groups: I soaps and gels, II hair cosmetics, III creams and balms, IV facial cosmetics. The pH, Cl 2 and Fe content in each sample was determined three times and means were calculated. Data were analyzed with one way ANOVA followed by Tukey test. P<0.05 was considered significant.Results. The pH in group III was significantly higher than in the other groups. Fe content was significantly higher in hair cosmetics as well as in creams and balms. Cl 2 content was high in soaps and hair cosmetics.Conclusions. The majority of the analyzed samples had pH within the healthy range. Traces of Cl 2 and Fe present in cosmetics are unlikely to cause skin irritation.