A Q-Methodological Study on the Subjective Perception Types of Customized Cosmetics among Skin Care Professionals

This study aimed to identify the subjective perception types of customized cosmetics among skin care professionals using Q methodology. A total of 34 Q-statements were developed through literature review and in-depth interviews, and Q-sorting was conducted with 40 skin care professionals. Data were analyzed using Centroid Factor Analysis and Varimax rotation with the KADE 1.3.1 program. Three perception types were identified, explaining 51% of the total variance, with factor reliabilities ranging from 0.941 to 0.990. The identified types were: (1) Efficacy-Trust and Growth-Expectation Type, emphasizing personalized efficacy and industrial growth potential; (2) Validation-Based Cautious Acceptance Type, prioritizing safety verification, clinical evidence, and institutional reliability; and (3) Professionalism-Based Practical Acceptance Type, emphasizing professional competency and practical applicability. The findings showed that attitudes toward customized cosmetics were shaped by different judgment criteria rather than by simple positive or negative evaluations. Skin care professionals differed in the importance they assigned to efficacy, safety verification, professional roles, and practical applicability in customized cosmetic services. This study extends existing consumer-centered research by identifying the subjective viewpoints of skin care professionals regarding customized cosmetics. The findings also suggest the need for educational and practical approaches that consider the characteristics and professional roles of practitioners in the customized cosmetics field.