Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate awareness, usage behaviors, and adverse ocular effects related to eye cosmetic application among residents of Hail, Saudi Arabia.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 300 individuals using a structured questionnaire to collect sociodemographic data, assess cosmetic practices, assess awareness of ocular risks, and collect self-reported complications.
Results: Most participants were young Saudi females with higher education. Although 90.3% acknowledged the risk of eye diseases from cosmetic use, unsafe practices were frequent: 54.7% shared cosmetics, 42.0% did not use disposable applicators, and only 21.3% cleaned tools after each use. Over half (54.1%) reported adverse effects, mainly blepharitis (54.0%) and conjunctivitis (41.3%). Marital status was significantly associated with complication rates (p-value = 0.022).
Conclusion: Despite high awareness of ocular risks, poor cosmetic hygiene remains common. Public health initiatives should address these gaps through targeted education to reduce preventable eye complications.

Key words: Eye cosmetics, ocular health, adverse effects, hygiene practices, awareness, Saudi Arabia.