Skin subtype categorization based on a new questionnaire for Korean women

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Cosmetic Science
• Clinical Research

Background:

• Existing skin type classifications lack clear dermatologic definitions.
• Current methods often incorporate subjective and psychological factors, limiting objective assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a practical questionnaire for classifying skin subtypes in Korean women.
• To provide a basis for personalized skin treatment and care strategies.

Main Methods:

• Expert consensus developed a questionnaire categorizing skin into dry/non-dry, oily/non-oily, sensitive/non-sensitive, and pigmented/non-pigmented subtypes.
• 512 Korean women completed the questionnaire.
• Analysis correlated subtypes with age, Fitzpatrick phototype, and dermatologic comorbidities.

Main Results:

• Korean women frequently exhibit oily skin, often experiencing post-cleansing dryness, and show high sensitivity to skincare products.
• Increased pigmentation correlated with a higher proportion of dry skin and decreased oily skin with age.
• Sensitive skin was more prevalent in individuals with dermatologic comorbidities.
• Darker Fitzpatrick phototypes were associated with a higher proportion of pigmented skin.

Conclusions:

• This study presents the first questionnaire specifically designed for classifying practical skin subtypes in Korean women.
• The developed questionnaire offers a foundation for addressing diverse dermatologic conditions and guiding personalized skincare regimens.