The Misuse of Clobetasol Propionate 0.05% Based Products as Skin Lightening Agents Among Sudanese Women
Author(s): Monzer Farah, Mongi Farah, Mohmmed Ali, Mohamed Ibrahim, Yassin Abedelraheem
Despite the social, pathological, physiological, and psychological effects that topical corticosteroids (TCs) present, it has become a widespread practice among Sudanese women. This cross-sectional study involving the three localities of Khartoum state assessed the perceived risks and reasons behind the use of TC among Sudanese women. Data was collected from 217 women using a validated self-administered questionnaire with a Cronbach's alpha value of 0.773. The data were analyzed descriptively and inferentially. Findings showed that 151 (69.6%) of respondents had used at least one clobetasol propionate 0.05% based product, 22 (14.6%) of them used very potent TC for >6 months. 67(44.4%) have a negative perception of its risks and consequences. The reasons behind why clobetasol propionate 0.05% based product were superior is that: it has a very rapid result (54.2%), low price point (35.5%) and no prescription needed (10.3%), while the main motives for commencement were engagement\wedding\graduation party (societal pressure),33 (21.3%) to satisfy the community beauty standards and 49 (31.6%) commence because of their low self-esteem due to their colored skin [self-satisfaction]. There was a significant difference in the perception of the risks of very potent TCs based on institutional affiliations (p=.000). This study concluded that the misuse of very potent TC was very prevalent among the studied population and that the participants had a negative perception of its risks and consequences. The most frequently reported adverse effects are stretch marks (striae) 68.8% and facial redness 57%.