# Assessing the Public’s Preferences and Outcomes in Using Online Resources and Digital Health Tools to Manage Skin Conditions: A Cross-Sectional Study

## TL;DR

This study examines how people use online resources and digital tools to manage skin conditions and finds that most find them reliable and helpful.

## Contribution

The study provides empirical evidence on public preferences and outcomes of using digital health tools for skin conditions in Saudi Arabia.

## Key findings

- Most participants (53.6%) used online resources for convenience, and 42% for self-education.
- Over half (53%) found online information reliable, and 68.4% reported improved skin conditions.
- A clear positive correlation was found between using digital tools and skin condition improvement.

## Abstract

Background

Individuals often seek advice from professionals and others to make decisions that best suit their needs in various situations. With the rapid growth of technology and the variety of available platforms, the general public faces the dilemma of choosing from numerous, diverse options. This study aims to explore the public's online advice-seeking behaviors, along with the reliability and trustworthiness of the information they use to manage their skin conditions.

Methods

A sample of 853 participants, aged 15 and above, from Saudi Arabia, completed a 20-question close-ended questionnaire, along with one optional open-ended question, assessing their use of online and digital resources for skin-related concerns.

Results

Statistical analysis revealed that the primary reason for seeking online solutions was convenience (170 participants, or 53.6%), followed by curiosity or self-education (133 participants, or 42%). A significant portion of respondents (164 participants, or 53%) found online information reliable, while 41 (12.9%) did not. Regarding skin condition improvement, 217 participants (68.4%) reported noticing a positive change, while four (1.3%) observed a decline.

Conclusion

This study highlights the importance of online resources and digital health tools for obtaining health-related information. A clear, positive correlation was found between the use of such resources and improvement in skin conditions.