Global Survey Highlights Widespread Skin Quality Concerns and Emotional Impact
Key Takeaways
- A global Galderma survey of more than 11,000 respondents across 11 countries found that 90% experienced at least one skin quality concern in the previous month, with fine lines and wrinkles, dry skin, and dull skin reported most frequently.
- Eighty-five percent of respondents said skin quality affected their quality of life, and more than one-third reported feeling self-conscious, insecure, or anxious because of their skin.
- Galderma highlighted its newly developed Skin Quality Assessment Scale, a clinician-focused tool designed to support holistic skin quality evaluation and personalized treatment planning.
A new global survey commissioned by Galderma found that skin quality concerns are nearly universal, with 9 in 10 respondents reporting at least 1 concern during the previous month and most experiencing an average of 2 concerns.1
The survey included more than 11,000 participants across 11 countries spanning North America, South America, Europe, and Asia. According to the findings, the most commonly reported concerns were fine lines and wrinkles (41%), dry skin (40%), and dull skin (37%). Additional concerns included age spots, oily skin, decreased firmness, and enlarged pores, with the face identified as the primary area affected.1
Survey Explores Patient Perceptions of Skin Quality
The survey also examined the psychosocial impact of skin quality. Overall, 85% of respondents reported that skin quality affected their quality of life, while more than one-third said poor skin quality contributed to feelings of self-consciousness, insecurity, or anxiety.1 Scarring, including acne scarring, was rated as the most bothersome skin quality concern, followed by fine lines and wrinkles.1
Interest in improving skin quality was particularly strong among younger adults. Approximately 70% of respondents aged 18 to 34 years rated skin quality as highly important, scoring it at least 8 out of 10, and respondents were most likely to begin taking steps to improve facial skin quality at approximately age 26.1 Among respondents who had undergone treatment, satisfaction with hyaluronic acid injectables was highest for improvement of fine lines and wrinkles (86%), dry skin (85%), and dull skin (82%).1
To support more standardized evaluation of skin quality, Galderma also highlighted the Skin Quality Assessment Scale, described as the first holistic assessment tool designed specifically for skin quality. The scale was developed with international dermatology experts and validated in a recent publication in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. In a separate clinician study, nearly two-thirds of healthcare professionals reported not using a formal skin quality assessment tool, while 81% believed a simple, comprehensive assessment method was lacking in clinical practice.2 Following validation, all participating clinicians agreed the scale supported a more holistic understanding of skin quality, and 98% reported it helped guide treatment planning.2
Watch the video below provided by Galderma for more insights and a live assessment using the Skin Quality Assessment Scale. Click here to view the full report.
References
- Galderma. Data on file. Skin Quality Consumer Survey.
- Martschin C, et al. Development and validation of a novel holistic Skin Quality Assessment Scale. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2025;24(1):e16615. doi:10.1111/jocd.16615