Influence of Image Editing Practices and Social Media on Seeking Cosmetic Skin Care, Al-Jouf, Saudi Arabia
Abstract
People who use social media platforms like Instagram frequently edit their photos. However, the relationship between social media use and the desire to see a dermatologist among young adults is unknown. This study aims to determine the prevalence of cosmetic dermatological care among social media users and investigate the various motivation for seeking cosmetic dermatological care. Saudis in the Al-Jouf region were the target population of this survey-based cross-sectional study. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 21. The level of significance was p<0.05. The collection of data was done through the academic year 2022/2023. The study included 550 participants with 72% being females. About (44.5%) of the studied participants were in the age category of (18-24) years old. Approximately half of them (49.3%) said they had edited personal photos prior to social media posting. The overall prevalence of cosmetic dermatology care from a dermatologist was (38.7%). Nearly two-thirds (66.4%) stated that a dermatologist is considered the best source of dermatology care advice. Nearly half of the Saudi population reported editing their pictures on social media, and one-fifth hid their skin lesions as they wanted to look perfect. Imperfect pictures were a source of anxiety and psychological burden for the participants. The main reasons for seeking cosmetic dermatology care were to appear beautiful without makeup and treat skin damage to seem prettier.
