A Quantitative Study to Understand the Perception toward Hazardous Chemicals in the Jamaican Beauty Industry

Abstract

Introduction: The use of beauty products containing hazardous chemicals is a public health concern and has become a common practice locally and globally, raising concerns about their potential impact on human health and the environment.

Objectives: To gain a broader understanding of the repercussions of current chemical use on the human body in the beauty industry in Jamaica; establish if there is a link between persons who frequently use beauty care products and any current health concerns; and to provide recommendations for policymakers and manufacturers to address consumer concerns and improve product safety.

Methodology: A cross-sectional descriptive research design was used to explore the perceptions of hazardous chemicals in beauty productsin Jamaica. The study focused on urban and suburban beauty salons and retail stores across three central parishes: Mandeville, Montego Bay, and Kingston, St. Andrew. Data were collected between October 1, 2024 and December 17, 2024. To ensure expertise in the subject area, a homogenous sampling technique was used to select 115 participants, all experienced salon managers, beauticians, and employees in the beauty salon. Quantitative data were gathered through structured questionnaires.

The analysis combined descriptive statistics and thematic analysis to identify patterns, trends, and key themes regarding the use and risks of hazardous chemicals in beauty products.

Findings: Most participants were female (n = 97, 84.3%). Among respondents, 69% reported experiencing allergic reactions to beauty products, with 25.8% indicating rashes or blisters. A small fraction (1.7%) reported other allergic responses. More than 30% of individuals reported using beauty products once per day, while 10% indicated twice daily; 70% of respondents claimed never to have used beauty products containing hazardous chemicals.Asignificant majority (58%) suggested that customers should be encouraged to wear masks in salons and other beauty spaces; 32.96% stated that manufacturers should conduct workshops to educate users; 3.5% noted that daily use of beauty products is harmful, and another 3.5% highlighted the risks posed by toxins to both human health and the environment, underscoring the need for greater awareness and regulatory oversight.

Conclusion: The study highlights the health risks of using beauty products containing hazardous chemicals. With 69% of respondents reporting allergic reactions and over 30% using such products daily, the findings underscore the need for enhanced safety practices and public awareness. Recommendations include promoting protective measures, such as wearing masks, displaying safety tips, and conducting manufacturer-led workshops to educate consumers on proper usage. The study concludes that addressing these risks requires collaborative efforts to mitigate adverse health and environmental impacts while fostering a safer beauty industry in Jamaica.