["Getting clear skin ……and why not?": voluntary depigmentation among women in a southwest region of Benin].

INTRODUCTION

This study aims to determine the prevalence and the factors associated with the use of products for voluntary depigmentation among women aged 15-49 years in Comè health zone in Benin.

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional study of 511 women aged 15-49 years selected using a cluster survey in 2016. Data were collected using a questionnaire seeking to explore the demographic, socio-cultural and economic characteristics of women. Depigmentation ingredients have been identified looking at the composition of regularly used body lotions. We performed a multiple logistic regression analysis. The statistical significance level was set at 5%.

RESULTS

The prevalence of use for voluntary depigmentation products among women aged 15-49 years in Comè health zone was 79,22% 95%; CI=[75,72-82,78] and 84,23% of women knew at least one of the adverse health effects associated with the use of skin depigmentation products. The products used were hydroquinone based (98.24%) and dermocorticoid based (1.76%). Factors associated with the use of voluntary depigmentation products included marital status (single, widowed, separated or divorced) (OR=3.1; 95% CI=[1.29-7.44]), the search for a husband or a partner (OR=4.92; 95% CI=[1.20-20.09]), the presence of hyperpigmented spots (OR=10.32; 95% CI=[2.87-37,01]).

CONCLUSION

These results show that the use of skin depigmentation products among women is a serious and huge public health problem in Comè health zone. Integrated communication campaign which can produce positive changes should be implemented.