Clinical Parameters Involved in Skin Tone Perception of Asian Population

Area of Science:

• Dermatology and Aesthetics
• Color Science
• Cosmetic Science

Background:

• Skin yellowness is a significant concern for facial attractiveness, particularly in the Asian population.
• Understanding the clinical parameters influencing perceived skin yellowness is crucial for developing effective interventions.
• Previous research has not fully elucidated the objective measures correlating with subjective perceptions of skin yellowness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify key clinical and exposome factors influencing the perception of facial skin yellowness.
• To establish correlations between objective colorimetric measurements and subjective assessments of skin yellowness.
• To explore the impact of seasonal variations on perceived skin yellowness.

Main Methods:

• Evaluated perceived facial skin yellowness through three observation and rating tests with 170 female participants.
• Utilized standardized lighting and screen settings for consistent image evaluations.
• Analyzed correlations between yellowness perception and clinical parameters, including colorimetric data (b*, L*) and skin diffused reflection.

Main Results:

• Both b* (color component) and L* (lightness) values, along with skin diffused reflection, significantly determine perceived yellowness.
• A preliminary model for perceived yellowness was derived: Perceived Yellowness = 0.42b* - 0.2L* + 9.01.
• Perceived skin yellowness exhibited seasonal variation, indicating an influence of sun exposure and suggesting "seasonal skin yellowing."

Conclusions:

• Skin yellowness perception is strongly correlated with colorimetric parameters (b*, L*) and optical properties (diffused reflection).
• The findings provide objective targets for cosmetic treatments aimed at skin aging and yellowness.
• Modulating L*, b*, and reflection are key strategies for addressing perceived skin yellowness and seasonal changes.