Global Survey Reveals Nine in Ten People Are Concerned About Their Skin Quality

New research from Galderma highlights the growing impact of skin quality concerns on emotional wellbeing, while introducing a new assessment tool designed to help practitioners deliver more personalised treatment plans.

Skin quality has become one of the fastest-growing conversations in aesthetic medicine, with patients increasingly looking beyond wrinkle reduction towards healthier, more radiant skin. Now, a landmark global survey from Galderma suggests these concerns are more widespread than ever, revealing that nine out of ten people experience at least one skin quality concern, with many reporting a significant impact on their confidence and quality of life.

The survey, which included more than 11,000 participants across 11 countries spanning Europe, Asia and the Americas, is believed to be the most extensive skin quality profiling study undertaken to date. Its findings reinforce the growing demand for evidence-based approaches that address skin health holistically rather than focusing solely on isolated cosmetic concerns.

Skin Quality Extends Beyond Appearance

According to the research, respondents experienced an average of two skin quality concerns within the previous month. Fine lines and wrinkles emerged as the most common concern (41%), closely followed by dry skin (40%) and dull skin (37%). Other frequently reported issues included enlarged pores, uneven skin tone, reduced firmness and age spots.

The face remains the primary area of concern, although respondents also reported changes affecting the neck, upper arms and legs.

Importantly, participants identified smooth, hydrated and glowing skin as the three most desirable characteristics of healthy skin, reflecting an increasing preference for overall skin quality rather than simply targeting individual lines or wrinkles.

The Emotional Impact of Skin Quality

While aesthetic practitioners understand that skin concerns often extend beyond physical appearance, the survey highlights the scale of their emotional impact.

Galderma’s findings revealed that 85% of respondents felt skin quality affected their quality of life, with more than one-third reporting feelings of self-consciousness, insecurity or anxiety linked to their skin.

Scarring, including acne scarring, was identified as the most bothersome concern, followed closely by fine lines and wrinkles.

The survey also found that younger adults are becoming increasingly proactive about skin health. Approximately 70% of respondents aged 18 to 34 rated skin quality as highly important, with many beginning to actively address facial skin quality concerns from around the age of 26.

A More Personalised Approach to Assessment

Alongside the survey findings, Galderma has announced the introduction of the Skin Quality Assessment Scale, developed in collaboration with leading international dermatology experts.

Designed as a comprehensive yet practical clinical tool, the assessment scale aims to help practitioners evaluate skin quality more holistically, identify treatment priorities, establish realistic expectations and monitor progress over time.

The development followed research showing that almost two-thirds of clinicians currently do not use a formal assessment tool when evaluating skin quality, while 81% believe there is a need for a simple, holistic framework within everyday clinical practice.

Following evaluation, all participating clinicians agreed that the new scale supports a more comprehensive understanding of skin quality, while almost all reported that it improves treatment planning.

Understanding the Biology of Skin Quality

Skin quality encompasses far more than visible appearance. It reflects how the skin looks, feels and functions, including hydration, elasticity, firmness, smoothness, radiance and tone.

Intrinsic ageing, alongside external influences such as ultraviolet exposure, pollution, stress, nutrition, sleep quality and hormonal changes, all contribute to the gradual decline of collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid.

These biological changes ultimately present as rough texture, dryness, reduced firmness, uneven pigmentation and loss of radiance, reinforcing the importance of preventative and regenerative treatment strategies.

Supporting Holistic Treatment Planning

The findings also reflect changing patient expectations within aesthetic medicine. Rather than seeking isolated cosmetic improvements, many patients are now looking for comprehensive treatment plans that improve overall skin health while supporting long-term ageing management.

Galderma believes this shift requires practitioners to adopt increasingly personalised approaches, combining injectable treatments with evidence-based skincare to optimise skin quality over time.

Looking Ahead

As patient demand continues to evolve, skin quality is becoming one of the defining themes of modern aesthetic practice.

The results of Galderma’s global survey demonstrate not only the widespread prevalence of skin quality concerns but also the significant emotional impact they can have. Equally, the introduction of the Skin Quality Assessment Scale represents an important step towards more consistent, evidence-based consultations and personalised treatment planning.

For practitioners, the message is clear: achieving healthy, resilient skin is increasingly viewed as a cornerstone of aesthetic care, with successful outcomes relying on a holistic understanding of both the biological and psychological aspects of skin quality