Evaluation of the sensitive skin syndrome and the effect of a dermo-cosmetic treatment in Thai and Polish subjects

Abstract

Objective: Sensitive skin syndrome (SSS) affects individuals from all ethnic groups. However, studies across different populations remain limited, despite recognised differences between populations. Thus, we examined SSS in Thai and Polish subjects, assessing the tolerance and efficacy of a dermo-cosmetic product in both populations. Methods: Thai participants were involved in a 28-day open-label study, while Polish subjects took part in a 56-day double-blind, randomised study comparing the product with a control cream. Clinical and functional signs were evaluated, alongside quality of life (QoL) using the Burden of Sensitive Skin (BoSS) questionnaire. Results: The product was well tolerated in both groups over time, leading to significant improvements in all clinical and functional signs (p < 0.05 to p < 0.001) and enhancing QoL (p < 0.005 in Thailand; p < 0.001 in Poland). At baseline, Polish subjects exhibited greater redness and higher BoSS scores to questions relating to visual signs (p < 0.001). Conversely, Thai participants reported more pronounced tingling, pain and itching, along with higher BoSS scores relating to sensory symptoms (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The study highlights differences existing in the perception of SSS symptoms between a Thai and Polish population and demonstrates that the dermo-cosmetic cream effectively alleviates SSS symptoms and improves QoL in both ethnic groups.