Race differences in usage of body care products

Although a variety of socioeconomic factors influence the purchase and use of personal care products, research has also shown racial variability in the physiological properties of skin which, in turn, influence the choice of body care products by consumers of different races. We analysed some survey data on personal care products usage and found the following differences between black and white consumers in South Africa.

• Black consumers were twice more likely than white consumers to use petroleum jelly (OR=2.4, 95% CI 1.4 – 4.1)

• Black consumers were four times more likely than white consumers to use hair styling products (OR=3.7, 95% CI 2.1 – 6.4)

• White consumers were 3 times more likely than black consumers to use body wash or shower gel (OR=2.9, 95% CI 1.7 – 5.1)

• White consumers were 7 times more likely than black consumers to use antiperspirant or deodorant (OR=7.4, 95% CI 1.0 – 55.0)

There were no significant differences between black and white consumers in relation to usage of the body cream, body lotion and face care products.