Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices Regarding Cosmetics Among Women in the Al-Qunfudah Governorate, Saudi Arabia.

BACKGROUND: Cosmetic product use has notably increased among women due to social trends and the growing emphasis on physical appearance. Although cosmetics improve appearance and confidence, they can cause adverse effects ranging from skin irritation to potential systemic harm. Despite these risks, many reactions go unreported. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to cosmetic use and its adverse effects among women in Al-Qunfudah, Saudi Arabia. METHODS: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 425 women living in Al-Qunfudah. Data were collected over three months, from the first of January 2025 to the end of March 2025, through an online Arabic questionnaire covering demographics, knowledge, attitudes, and cosmetic practices. Knowledge scores were classified as good (≥60%) or poor (<60%). Data analysis was done using IBM SPSS Statistics software, version 27 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY), with significance set at p<0.05. RESULTS: Among participants, 289 (68.0%) had adequate knowledge. Significant associations were found between knowledge level and sunscreen use (p=0.005), pharmacist consultation (p=0.012), and cosmetic use (p=0.049). A total of 214 (50.4%) reported side effects, mainly skin-related (184, 86.0%), with hair products as the leading cause (177, 82.7%). The face was the most affected area (165, 80.9%). Most reactions appeared within one month among 166 (77.6%) participants. Despite 78 (46.4%) self-medicating, only 65 (38.7%) sought medical advice. CONCLUSION: Although many women in Al-Qunfudah are aware of the importance of product quality and sun protection, there are clear gaps in safe cosmetic practices. These include limited professional consultation, low rates of sensitivity testing, and insufficient awareness of safety regulations. Targeted health education is needed to support safer cosmetic use and reduce the risk of harm.