Key takeaways
- Sensitive skin affects up to 70% of people globally and is rising.
- Galderma’s new study reveals that modern lifestyles significantly worsen sensitive skin symptoms.
- Inflammation, oxidative stress, and environmental damage are key biological drivers.
- Findings support the need for targeted skincare innovation and recognition of sensitive skin as a standalone dermatological condition.
Swiss pure-play skincare company Galderma is set to unveil a wealth of new data at the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV) 2025 Congress in Paris this week. Among the highlights are fresh insights into the impact of modern living on sensitive skin, alongside findings from the largest global survey ever conducted on the condition.
A real-world clinical study carried out in China reveals that modern lifestyles and environmental triggers significantly affect individuals with sensitive skin. This first-of-its-kind research was led by Galderma’s Global Sensitive Skin Faculty (GSSF), reflecting the company’s commitment to advancing the understanding and care of sensitive skin.
Sensitive skin: a growing global concern in modern environments
The data shows that individuals with sensitive skin living in modern environments exhibit higher levels of inflammation compared to those in traditional, less stressful settings.
Galderma reports that sensitive skin affects up to 70% of people globally—a figure that has increased by 68% over the past two decades—yet it remains widely overlooked and under-researched.
The clinical study involved 150 women in China aged 35–50, divided into three equal groups:
- Individuals with sensitive skin living in modern, urban environments
- Individuals with sensitive skin living in traditional, less urbanised settings
- Individuals with non-sensitive skin living in modern environments
Participants in modern environments experienced higher levels of pollution, stress, and poorer sleep compared to those in traditional settings. The study assessed skin health across these groups to evaluate the impact of both lifestyle and skin sensitivity.
Tape-stripping analysis of the outermost layer of the skin (the stratum corneum) revealed that sensitive skin faces a triple threat: inflammation, oxidative stress, and environmental damage.
Biological differences were significant. Individuals with sensitive skin in modern environments showed three times more inflammation than those in traditional settings, as evidenced by elevated levels of the inflammatory marker prostaglandin E2. Inflammation plays a key role in sensitive skin by activating immune responses that lead to redness, discomfort, and barrier disruption — making the skin more reactive to environmental stressors.
The findings also highlight oxidative stress — a biological response to environmental factors such as UV exposure and pollution, which accelerates skin ageing —as a central driver of sensitive skin. Individuals with sensitive skin in modern environments exhibited a 16% increase in oxidative stress markers compared to those with non-sensitive skin, indicating an exaggerated response that may compromise long-term skin health. Notably, consistently high oxidative stress levels were observed in sensitive skin regardless of lifestyle, suggesting it may be a core biological feature of the condition.
Additionally, a higher prevalence of dark spots commonly associated with photo-ageing was observed in sensitive skin, providing visible evidence of the long-term impact of environmental stressors on skin integrity and appearance.
Taken together, these findings underscore the profound influence of environmental factors on sensitive skin, particularly in modern urban settings. The combination of heightened inflammation, persistent oxidative stress, and visible signs of damage points to a biologically distinct skin profile that is more vulnerable to internal and external triggers.
Insights from Galderma’s expert Dr Aaron Farberg
We spoke to Dr Aaron Farberg, a US-based dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Baylor Scott & White Health, who will present the study at EADV.
CosmeticsDesign-Europe (CDE): What do you consider the most important findings of this research, and what does it mean for the future of skin care?
Dr Aaron Farberg (AF): This pioneering study provides real-world biological evidence that sensitive skin is not merely a subjective experience—it has a distinct and measurable biological profile. One of the most striking findings was that individuals with sensitive skin living in modern urban environments showed three times more inflammation than those in traditional settings. We also observed a 16% increase in oxidative stress markers in people with sensitive skin compared to non-sensitive individuals in urban environments, along with a higher prevalence of dark spots linked to photo ageing.
These results highlight the profound impact of environmental stressors such as pollution, chronic stress, and poor sleep on sensitive skin. For the future of skincare, this means we must evolve our approach. Sensitive skin should be recognised as a standalone dermatological condition, with targeted solutions that address its underlying biology. As a member of Galderma’s Global Sensitive Skincare Faculty, I’m proud to be part of this initiative — it’s a powerful example of how collaboration between the medical community and industry can drive progress in under-researched areas.
CDE: How could the findings influence skincare innovation and new product development (NPD)?
AF: This study reinforces the need for skincare innovation that goes beyond surface-level symptom relief. With inflammation and oxidative stress identified as central drivers of sensitive skin — especially in urban environments — formulations should be designed to actively strengthen the skin barrier and soothe irritation. There’s also a growing demand for products that are gentle and hydrating, yet effective in protecting against environmental stressors and supporting long-term skin health.
CDE: Any final thoughts on the research?
AF: Sensitive skin affects up to 70% of people globally — a figure that has risen by 68% in the past 20 years. Yet despite its prevalence, it remains under-recognised and under-researched. This study is part of a broader effort to change that, elevating sensitive skin from a vague complaint to a scientifically understood condition.
Further research is essential. As urbanisation and environmental stressors continue to rise, we need to better understand how these factors interact with skin biology. Initiatives like Galderma’s Global Sensitive Skincare Faculty are vital, bringing together dermatology experts worldwide to advance research, education, and care. Recognising sensitive skin as a standalone dermatological condition will help improve diagnosis, management, and ultimately, quality of life for millions of people.
Full results from the study will be presented during the GSSF industry hub session at EADV, titled: “Sensitive Skin Syndrome: A Rising Phenomenon Linked to Modern Lifestyles and Environmental Changes” on Friday, 19 September | 11:15 AM – 12:00 PM CET | Hub 2
