Cosmetic products use-pattern: A national survey in Iran

Introduction: Cosmetic products are amongst the most widely and regularly used products in all age groups. The aim of this study was to assess the rate, frequency, and the number of products used by the Iranian population. Preferences in selecting products, overall tendency to buy domestic or foreign products, brand loyalty, and preferred place of purchase were also investigated. Method: Usage patterns of 59 product types (e.g., hair-spray, foundation, eyeliner, and lipstick) were investigated in 1800 households in eight cities of Iran based on Coc hrane sampling by means of a validated questionnaire. The data was analyzed with SPSS24 regarding age, sex, education, religion, total household expenses, and ethnicity ofthe population. Result and discussion: This study provides data on population-based usage patterns of commonly used cosmetic products based on socio-demographic strata. More than 82% of respondents were women and 52% of them had middle economic level. Based on One-Way ANOVA test with a significant p-value<0.05, mascara, foundation, eyeliner, and nail polish were the most frequent products used. Thehighest volume of use was dedicated to hair shampoo, conditioner, dye, and volumizer. In addition, foundation with a consumption amount of 280 grams per year per capita had the highest usage rate. On the other hand, considering face, eye, eyebrow, and lip cosmetics, people prefer to buy foreign over domestic products. In addition, beauty stores are the most favored place of purchase by consumers. Moreover,cosmetic products made 7% of overall household expenditures. Conclusion: This is the first study providing usage pattern of cosmetic products in Iran. Considering the wide usage of such products, their impact on community health, and the consumer’s preferences, companies and health authorities can take advantage of these results to develop strategies and regulations to optimize cosmetic use patterns.

Keywords:

cosmetics , use pattern , household survey , cosmetics expenditure ,