Nine in 10 people globally experience skin quality concerns, new survey finds

Nine in 10 people globally are affected by skin quality concerns, with 85% saying these issues have an impact on their quality of life, according to a new global survey from dermatology company Galderma.

The survey, which Galderma describes as the world’s most extensive skin quality profiling study to date, analysed responses from more than 11,000 people across 11 countries in Europe, Asia and the Americas. It found that concerns around hydration, texture, ageing and overall skin appearance are influencing not only how consumers perceive their skin, but also how they feel about themselves.

More than one-third of respondents said skin quality concerns had made them feel self-conscious, insecure or anxious, highlighting the growing relationship between skincare, confidence and emotional wellbeing.

Respondents experienced an average of two skin quality concerns in the past month, with fine lines and wrinkles affecting 41% of respondents, followed by dry skin at 40% and dull skin at 37%.

Other frequently reported concerns included age spots, oily skin, reduced firmness and enlarged pores, with the face identified as the primary area of concern.

The findings also highlighted notable regional differences. Dry skin emerged as the leading concern in North America and Europe, affecting 44% and 38% of respondents, respectively, while enlarged pores were reported by 42% of respondents in Asia, compared with between 20% and 25% elsewhere. The survey also found that skin quality concerns were more prevalent among people living in urban areas and those experiencing higher levels of stress.

Younger consumers placed particular importance on skin quality, with 70% of those aged 18 to 34 rating it as eight out of 10 in importance. Respondents were also most likely to begin taking steps to improve the quality of their facial skin at the age of 26.

“Skin evolves over time, influenced by both age and external factors,” said Bill Andriopoulos, PhD, Head of Global Medical Affairs at Galderma.

“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.”

Alongside the findings, Galderma has introduced its Skin Quality Assessment Scale, developed with dermatology experts to help clinicians assess skin quality, identify treatment priorities and support more personalised treatment planning.

Dr Christoph Martschin, dermatologist in Portugal and contributor to the development of the assessment scale, said: “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.”

“As clinicians, we see every day how challenging it can be to translate this complexity into meaningful, personalised care. That’s why I was proud to collaborate in the development of the Skin Quality Assessment Scale.”

The survey and the launch of the Skin Quality Assessment Scale reflect a growing focus on personalised approaches to skin, with clinicians increasingly seeking to tailor treatments to individual concerns.