Korean J Dermatol.  2020 Mar;58(3):174-178.

Usage and Awareness of “Color Cosmetics” and Acne-targeting Cosmetics in Korean Middle School Students

• Lee SH
• Hong ES
• Lee JD
• Cho SH
• Woo YR
• Kim HS

Abstract

Background
The use of makeup is popular among Korean adolescents. With the increased use of color cosmetics, there are concerns that heavy application may cause skin problems or aggravate acne, a condition highly prevalent in this age group. Other than makeup, cosmetic products targeting acne are also easily accessible and often used. Currently, little is known about the use of these products in Korean middle school students and their understanding of its effect on the skin.
Objective
This study investigated the prevalence of “color cosmetics” and cosmetics targeting acne” among Korean students and their awareness of the effects of these products on their skin. Method: A questionnaire survey was conducted of 192 students from Dawon Middle School in Hwasung. The questionnaire consisted of detailed inquiries regarding the use of color cosmetics and cosmetics targeting acne and their effect on the skin.
Results
A total of 192 responses were analyzed. Sixty-three (32.8%) students reported experience with putting on makeup. Among these 63 students, 35 (55.5%) responded that their skin condition had worsened after applying makeup, which was associated with the frequency and extent of color cosmetic use (p＜0.05). Among the 106 (52.2%) students with acne, 63% reported having tried acne-targeting cosmetics. Approximately 14.3% of this population reported feeling very satisfied with the effect of these cosmetics on acne.
Conclusion
The results of our study indicated that a significant percentage of middle school adolescents are using makeup. As skin troubles may arise with the use of color cosmetics, an educational guide on minimizing application and properly removing the products should be provided to this population. Acne is highly prevalent in adolescents and cosmetics targeting acne are easily accessible. The belief that acne-targeting cosmetics can replace hospital treatment can be risky and should be thoroughly explained by dermatologists.

Keyword

Korea; Middle school adolescents; Makeup; Color cosmetics; Acne targeting cosmetics; Acne vulgaris