An Online Survey on Usability, Acceptability, Attitude and Knowledge of Herbal and Synthetic Cosmetic Among Sikkimese Population

Abstract

In recent years, the global cosmetics industry has witnessed a notable shift in consumer preferences towards natural and organic products, leading to an increased demand for herbal cosmetics derived from plant-based ingredients. This research survey presents a comparative analysis of herbal and synthetic cosmetics, exploring distinctions in formulation, efficacy, safety, and environmental impact. Herbal cosmetics incorporate natural elements like plant extracts, essential oils, herbs, and fruits, while synthetic counterparts are developed using chemical compounds in laboratories to replicate specific properties. The main objective is to find out the preferences between herbal and synthetic cosmetics among individuals in Sikkim. The methodology adopted for mini survey was pre-prepared questionnaires were developed by using Google forms and shared through the online platforms such as Mail, Whatapps and facebook. An online survey conducted in different districts of Sikkim revealed that 42% of respondents favoured herbal cosmetics, while 31% preferred synthetic products and 23% had no specific preference. Factors influencing those leaning toward synthetic cosmetics included perceived effectiveness, availability, and affordability. Despite the clear interest and preference for herbal cosmetics, the survey also highlighted limited choice and availability in comparison to synthetic alternatives. This suggests a substantial opportunity for growth in the herbal cosmetic industry, emphasizing the need for increased accessibility to meet the growing demand in Sikkim and beyond. Keywords: Knowledge of Herbal, An Online Survey, Herbal Cosmetics, Acceptability, Usability, Sikkimese People