Knowledge, Awareness, and Perceptions of Artificial Eyelash Use and Associated Ocular Side Effects Among Palestinian Females: A Cross-Sectional Study

TL;DR

This study explores the use of artificial eyelashes and related eye problems among Palestinian women, finding high awareness and cosmetic use but low health information seeking.

Contribution

The study provides novel insights into artificial eyelash use and associated ocular side effects among Palestinian females, a previously under-researched population.

Findings

91.8% of participants were aware of artificial eyelashes, with 53.3% having used them.

Most users reported ocular side effects like heavy eyelids, vision shadowing, and tearing.

Social media was the main source of information, while health professionals were rarely consulted.

Abstract

Background

Despite the ocular side effects associated with artificial eyelashes, their usage is increasing among females globally. However, there is a lack of research on this topic among females in the Arab world. This study investigates the awareness and knowledge of artificial eyelash use and its associated issues among Palestinian females.

Methods

This study utilized a descriptive cross-sectional design and involved 499 female participants, with a mean age of 26.1 years (±8.2). Participants completed a self-administered questionnaire that collected data on demographics, awareness, reasons for use, usage behavior, and associated ocular adverse effects related to artificial eyelashes.

Results

A total of 91.8% (n=458) of participants were aware of artificial eyelashes, with 53.3% (n=266) reporting prior usage. There was a significant association between awareness and both age (p=0.00) and education level (p=0.00). The highest usage was observed in females aged 15-24 (n=184, 69.2%), with a significant proportion reporting lifetime use of only once (n=219, 82.3%) and usage limited to one day (n=202, 75.9%). This usage was significantly influenced by educational level (p=0.00). The main reason for use was aesthetic (n=195, 73.3%). Social media was the primary source of information regarding artificial eyelashes (n=310, 62.1%) and their associated side effects (n=103, 38.7%), while only a small percentage (n=25, 9.4%) sought information from health workers. The most frequently reported side effects were heavy eyelids (n=40, 15%), shadowing in vision (n=38, 14.3%), and tearing and itching (n=32, 12%). The frequency and duration of use showed a significant association with the occurrence of symptoms (p=0.04).

Conclusion

The use of artificial eyelashes is prevalent among Palestinian females for cosmetic enhancement. A significant proportion of participants reported ocular side effects, highlighting the need to enhance awareness among young females through the dissemination of evidence-based clinical information via social media.

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