Exposure, Skin Roughness and a New Niche Proposal

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Researchers in Switzerland studied the roughness of human skin on highly exposed body sites including the forehead, cheeks, nose, shoulder and dorsal side of hands, to determine how this could impact sunscreen application. These five sites were examined in four age groups: 0-9, 20-39, 40-59 and > 60 years. Skin replicas were made and their topography was captured using confocal chromatic imaging.

As might be expected, age and body site had significant effects on roughness. The dorsal hand and nose exhibited the greatest roughness in subjects over 40; the forehead of the youngest age group showed the smallest roughness. Differentiation between sites progressed with age, whereas roughness increased significantly with age for the dorsal side of hands and nose, but not for the other sites. Researchers concluded the application of sunscreens to these areas may therefore require certain levels of adaptation.

Could specialized hand or nose care become new niche markets? They certainly require different care. A few years ago, Global Cosmetic Industry reported a growing market for hand care in Canada. Lucintel also found that from 2013 to 2018, the body and hand care segment has risen at a faster pace than facial care, depilatories and sun care segments. I can't say the same for "nose care"; at least not yet.

With new scientific findings like these behind a trend, I wouldn't be surprised to see marketers getting a stronger grip on this hand care opportunity.

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