On Monday, October 5, 2026, a group of students from the Biomedical Sciences Department at Cihan University–Erbil visited Bahar Basic School for Girls under the supervision of A.L. Hero Ismael Mohammed to conduct an awareness seminar entitled ‘The Harms of Nail Polish and Makeup for Children.’ The students were warmly received by the school principal, Mrs. Shawnim Khalil Tawfiq. The seminar was attended by eighth-grade pupils.

The seminar was opened by Mihraban Sdiq Rahman, a fourth-stage student in the Biomedical Sciences Department. She explained that makeup and nail polish are commonly used for beauty purposes; however, many cosmetic products contain chemicals that may have harmful effects on human health, particularly when they are used improperly or excessively.

Sundus Hewa Qarani, a fourth-stage student, emphasized that children and teenagers should avoid the unnecessary use of makeup because children’s skin is more sensitive than adults’ skin. She also explained that when cosmetic products are used, products specifically formulated for teenagers and young people should be selected. She stressed the importance of removing makeup before going to sleep and avoiding leaving nail polish on the nails for prolonged periods.

In the final part of the seminar, Mihraban Abdulkhaliq, a third-stage student, highlighted the importance of maintaining a balance between beauty and health, stating, “Beauty is important, but health is more important.” Together with Kaziwa Kareem, a third-stage student, and Zhinar Sami, a second-stage student, she distributed vitamin-containing lip balms and hand creams to the pupils as part of the practical health-awareness activity. The students explained that these skin- and lip-care products can help protect the skin during autumn, when cooler and drier weather can contribute to dry skin and lips.