Evaluation of women's personal skin care behaviours

Background and aim: In our study, it was aimed to analyze the skin care behaviours of women in and around Hatay. Methods: Healthy female participants who applied to the dermatology outpatient clinic, did not have a dermatological disease and were between the ages of 18-60 were included in our study. Questionnaires were administered face-to-face and on paper. A questionnaire consisting of 26 questions and questioning the demographic characteristics and skin care behaviours of the participants was applied. Results: 0% of the participants stated that they have never used a moisturizer. The rate of those who stated that they use sunscreen every day was found to be 32%. 74% of the participants stated that they have never used eye cream. It was observed that social media and the internet (37%) were the most common channels for obtaining information about skin care. It was determined that the most frequently consulted person when choosing a skin care product was a dermatologist (36%). 52% of respondents stated that they always check product ingredients. Likewise, the rate of those paying attention to paraben was found to be 65%. There was no relationship between sunscreen use and skin type (p>0.05). The budget allocated to cosmetic products and the level of education were found to be closely related (p=0.001). When the educational status and the use of face cream, eye cream, sunscreen and moisturizer were compared, results were obtained in parallel with the budget allocated for skin care (p=0.001). The relationship between smoking status, body mass index, and skin type and cosmetic product usage habits could not be demonstrated. It was observed that especially age, marital status, education level and monthly income level were effective on cosmetic product usage behaviours. Conclusion: According to the data we obtained as a result of the study, it is necessary to increase the awareness of women living in and around Hatay province about skin care. The use of sunscreen is not sufficient, especially in our region that is constantly exposed to sun. It is also necessary to increase awareness levels about controlling the content of products and avoiding parabens. Key Words: Behaviour, Cosmetics, Skin care