Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of Cosmetic Vendors Regarding Their Products, Skin Physiology and Dermatoses in Ouahigouya, Burkina Faso: A Cross-Sectional Study
Connaissances, Attitudes et Pratiques des Vendeurs de Cosmétiques Concernant Leurs Produits, la Physiologie Cutanée et les Dermatoses à Ouahigouya, Burkina Faso : Une Étude Transversale
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17921100Keywords:
Cosmetics, Knowledge, Attitudes, Practices, Vendors, Dermatoses, Burkina FasoAbstract
ABSTRACT
Introduction. Cosmetic vendors play a crucial role in consumer guidance, yet their knowledge and practices remain poorly documented in sub-Saharan Africa. The lack of formal training and regulatory oversight raises concerns about product safety and appropriate recommendations. The objective was to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of cosmetic vendors in Ouahigouya regarding their products, skin physiology, and dermatoses. Methodology. A cross-sectional study was conducted from January to September 2023 among cosmetic retailers in Ouahigouya, Burkina Faso. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire covering sociodemographic characteristics, product knowledge, commercial practices, and attitudes toward customers. Descriptive statistics were performed using Epi Info version 7.2. Results. Sixty-four vendors participated (participation rate: 86.5%). The mean age was 30.6±10 years, with 57.8% females. Most vendors (95.3%) had no formal training in cosmetology. Only 20% could correctly define cosmetic products. While 84% recognized potential dermatological risks, 73% had adequate knowledge of skin barrier function. Product composition knowledge was inconsistent: only 16.7% (3/18) of recommendations for skin lightening and 27.3% (3/11) for acne treatment matched actual product formulations. Twenty percent of vendors created custom product mixtures. Only 20% directly referred clients to healthcare professionals for extensive or unidentified dermatoses. Conclusion. Cosmetic vendors in Ouahigouya demonstrate significant knowledge gaps regarding product composition, appropriate indications, and dermatological complications. These findings highlight the urgent need for structured training programs, strengthened market regulation, and enhanced collaboration with healthcare providers to improve consumer safety.
RÉSUMÉ
Introduction. Le rôle des vendeurs de cosmétiques dans l'orientation des consommateurs est crucial en Afrique subsaharienne, mais le manque de formation et de régulation soulève des préoccupations de sécurité. L'étude visait à évaluer les Connaissances, Attitudes et Pratiques (CAP) des vendeurs de cosmétiques à Ouahigouya concernant leurs produits, la physiologie cutanée et les dermatoses. Méthodologie. Une étude transversale quantitative a été menée de janvier à septembre 2023 auprès de 64 détaillants à Ouahigouya, au Burkina Faso, utilisant un questionnaire structuré pour collecter des données sociodémographiques, de connaissances et de pratiques. Résultats. La majorité (95,3%) des 64 vendeurs (moyenne d'âge sim 30 ans, majoritairement femmes) n'avait aucune formation formelle. Seuls 20% définissaient correctement les produits. Malgré une reconnaissance des risques dermatologiques par 84%, la connaissance de la composition était incohérente, notamment pour l'éclaircissement et l'acné. 20% réalisaient des mélanges personnalisés et seulement 20% référaient les cas complexes aux professionnels de santé. Conclusion. Les vendeurs de cosmétiques à Ouahigouya présentent d'importantes lacunes dans leurs connaissances (composition, indications, complications). Ces résultats soulignent l'urgence de mettre en place des formations structurées, de renforcer la réglementation et d'améliorer la collaboration avec les soignants pour la sécurité des consommateurs.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Fagnima Traoré, Solo Traoré, Ad Bafa Ibrahim Ouattara, Wendwaounga Ahïssa Oumou Barry, Tôh Sib, Macaire Pankolo, Nongoba Savadogo, Hervé Tiéno, Lassané Zoungrana, Réné Bognounou, Oumar Guira, Jean Baptiste Andonaba, Nomtondo Amina Ouédraogo
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