A Study of Actual Conditions on Cosmetics Use and Skin Care of Foreign Female Students

Abstract

The purposes of this study were to research preferences regarding cosmetic purchases and the actual conditions of skin care among foreign female university students to provide useful information that could aid in finding a marketing target for cosmeceuticals. Seventy foreign female college students who were attending Kwangju Women’s University were selected. A questionnaire survey and data were analyzed by factor analysis and frequency using the Excel computer program. The results were as follows: the majority of subjects possessed a complex skin type and showed differences in preferences for cosmetics according to skin type. They exhibited a low recognition of basal cosmetics and sun block for whitening of skin and a high satisfaction for Korea cosmetics. Among skin issues reported, they also hoped to improve darker pigmentation. Therefore, education should be provided to improve the need for recognition and education such as ways to use basal cosmetics and sun block as well as cleansing procedures. Public information and education for these students based on the above results will contribute to the continued satisfaction with Korea cosmetics and the improvement of brand image.