The knowledge and awareness of sunscreen use amongst somatologists in Bloemfontein

Abstract

Sunscreen lotions are the skins protection against sunburn. Even though this sounds like a simple fact, somatologists appear to know remarkably little about the usage, ingredients present and their adverse effects on the skin. In the South African Association of Health and Skincare Professionals (SAAHSP) accredited salons of Bloemfontein, 43 somatologists were tested by means of questionnaires in order to determine their awareness and knowledge regarding sunscreen usage, the ingredients in the lotions and their adverse effects. The results were statistically analysed by means of frequencies and percentages which proved that more than half (58%) of somatologists use sunscreen daily, but do not have the knowledge or awareness of toxic ingredients found in these products. In conclusion, most Somatologists in Bloemfontein are not fully equipped with the knowledge surrounding sunscreens in order for them to provide adequate information to their clients. It is recommended that information regarding sunscreens should be included as a higher priority in the professional product house training including the Somatology curriculum.