Abstract:
The purpose of this study aims to analyze and explain the science communication and science narrative used in skincare product reviews on YouTube and explore the influence of exposure frequency, perceived science communication, likability of science narrative, and Involvement in science message toward consumers' purchasing decisions. The research utilizes a mixed-methods approach, starting with qualitative research through in-depth interviews with one YouTube beauty influencer, namely GURUCHECK, along with the analysis of science narrative in three YouTube channels: ingck, GURUCHECK, and EB.Bahboh, consisting of 15 episodes. Additionally, quantitative research using a survey was conducted, collecting data from a sample group of 400 individuals. The qualitative research findings indicate that the science communication of beauty YouTubers comprises their expertise presented in the form of video reviews. They use a deficit and conversational approach and science narrative on YouTube. The impact on viewers includes knowledge, understanding of the content, and receiving product information based on their needs. Additionally, viewers actively participate in evaluating skincare products through commenting and sharing video content on social media. Regarding science narrative, it was found that there is consistency in language usage, symbols, and content relevant to the viewers. The narrative involves characters in which skincare product serves as the hero, skin issues act as the villains, and the viewers become the victims. The narratives often revolve around skincare maintenance or the analysis of product effectiveness, following a chronological order of events. Topics presented include causes and factors for skincare problems, checking before using, and reading labels and ingredients before purchasing. The narrative is supported by evidence to substantiate scientific claims. The survey findings reveal that the sample group, which had been following skincare product reviews on YouTube for more than three years, predominantly used YouTube as the primary platform for skincare product reviews. The frequency of watching skincare product reviews ranged from 2 to 3 days per week. perceived science communication, likability of science narrative, and involvement in science message is also at the highest level. Moreover, consumers purchasing decisions are at a high level.