A survey of more than 11,000 people highlights common aesthetic priorities and introduces a new clinical scale to guide personalized treatment planning.
Galderma has released results from a global skin quality profiling survey, finding that 90% of individuals are affected by skin quality concerns. The study, which included more than 11,000 participants across Europe, Asia, and the Americas, identified smooth, hydrated, and glowing skin as the most important attributes of skin quality.
According to the findings, the most common concerns reported by participants include fine lines and wrinkles (41%), dry skin (40%), and dull skin (37%). These issues most frequently affect the face, followed by the neck, legs, and upper arms.
“Our skin evolves over time, influenced by both age and external factors,” says Bill Andriopoulos, PhD, head of global medical affairs at Galderma, in a release. “At Galderma, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions, we strive to be a trusted partner to people throughout their skin quality journey by offering comprehensive solutions to meet their diverse and evolving needs.”
The survey also highlights the emotional impact of skin health, with 85% of respondents stating that skin quality affects their quality of life. More than one-third of participants reported feeling self-conscious, insecure, or anxious due to poor skin quality. Scarring was identified as the most bothersome concern, followed by fine lines and wrinkles.
Aesthetic priorities appear to be high among younger demographics. Approximately 70% of individuals aged 18 to 34 rated skin quality as an eight out of ten in importance. On average, people are most likely to take the first steps to improve facial skin quality at age 26.
The Skin Quality Assessment Scale
In response to the survey findings and clinician calls for a universal assessment tool, Galderma worked with experts to develop the Skin Quality Assessment Scale. This tool is designed to help healthcare professionals identify treatment priorities, align patient expectations, and track progress over time.
A separate study of clinicians found that 81% believed a simple, holistic approach to assessment was missing in clinical practice. Following the development of the new scale, 100% of participating clinicians agreed it supports a holistic understanding of skin quality, and 98% confirmed it helps guide treatment planning.
“What stood out from these survey insights was not just how common skin quality concerns are, but how they can differ based on age, lifestyle and environment,” says Christoph Martschin, MD, medical advisor at Galderma, in a release. “As clinicians, we see every day how challenging it can be to translate this complexity into meaningful, personalized care. That’s why I was proud to collaborate in the development of the Skin Quality Assessment Scale, an accessible, practical tool to help healthcare professionals and patients work together to create treatment plans that reflect their needs and how these evolve over time.”
The report notes that skin quality is influenced by external factors such as stress, diet, sun exposure, and pollution, which can lead to a decrease in hyaluronic acid, elastin, and collagen. To address these needs, the company highlights treatments including Sculptra and Restylane Skinboosters, as well as skincare brands Alastin and Cetaphil, to support skin regeneration and hydration.
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