Sunscreen behaviors among Libyan society survey

Abstract

Sunscreen products are available in wide scale for consumers, the topical use products act by either absorbing or scattering the UV radiation. Excessive UV radiation exposure have been shown to be associated with a series of dermatologic disorders, which symptoms may appear instantly, or even developed few years later in life. The objective of this study is to assess the behaviors, application and use- base of sunscreen. A questionnaire-based study was conducted in Tripoli province, Libya. The questionnaire included four broad categories, developed to explore and highlight the main behaviors during the use and application of sunscreen. Questionnaire circulated inside dermatology follow-up clinics and outside hospital. Respondent characteristics pattern reported as a percentages. Data were analyzed from 385 participants who had complete information regarding behaviors and use of sunscreen at Libyan society. With at least 70% of participants using and applying sunscreen, the majority of users were female 87.8%, and their age ranges from 20 to29 years, with frequent use more than 2 times per week. Whereas 57% of participants applied sunscreen as personal protection of their skin. In this survey, the questionnaire-based study provided valuable information about the behaviors and habits of applying sunscreen products. The majority of participants applied sunscreen to protect their skin, the market drives the users about the type of sunscreen and most of the participants gave the medical counsel and recommendation low attention.