Almost nine out of ten people are affected by skin quality concerns, according to a survey of more than 11,000 across Europe, Asia, and the Americas by Galderma.
The Swiss maker of dermatological treatments and skin care products found that, for 85% of people, skin quality has an impact on their quality of life, with more than a third feeling self-conscious, insecure or anxious due to poor skin quality.
The most common concerns are fine lines and wrinkles (41%), dry skin (40%), and dull skin (37%).
In addition, age spots, oily skin, decreased firmness and enlarged pores emerged as notable concerns.
These were found to primarily affect the face, followed by the neck, legs and upper arms.
Conversely, the most important attributes of good skin quality were smooth, hydrated and glowing skin.
Higher levels of concern for those living in urban areas, and experiencing high stress.
Dry skin emerged as a leading concern in North America (44%) and Europe (38%), while nlarged pores affected 42% of respondents in Asia, compared with 20–25% elsewhere.
All skin concerns were described as bothersome, with the most bothersome being scarring, including due to acne, followed by fine lines and wrinkles.
This discomfort leads most people to either consider or actively seek ways to address skin quality concerns, in particular younger consumers.
Approximately 70% of 18-34 year olds rated skin quality as eight out of ten in importance, with people most likely to take the first steps to improve the skin quality of their face at the age of 26.
Respondents were most satisfied with hyaluronic acid injectables as treatments for the most common skin quality concerns of lines and wrinkles (86% very satisfied), dry skin (85%) and dull skin (82%).
To help clinicians better understand and address the complexity of skin quality concerns, Galderma supported leading dermatology experts in developing the Skin Quality Assessment Scale – the first holistic assessment tool of its kind designed to identify treatment priorities, align expectations and support personalized, long-term 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,” said Dr. Christoph Martschin, Dermatologist, Portugal.
“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.”
A full report can be found at galderma.com/sites/default/files/2026-07/Galderma_Skin-Quality_Report_V6_260703_0.pdf.
