Introduction: Sensitive skin has been described as a syndrome defined by the occurrence of unpleasant sensations (stinging, burning, pain, pruritus, and tingling sensations) in response to stimuli that normally should not provoke such sensations. Although often transient, and in many cases unaccompanied by visual dermatological responses, sensitive skin affects the quality of life. The aim of this survey was to assess the prevalence of sensitive skin and collect clinical data on sensitive skin in the population of Herzegovina-Neretva County.
Subjects and methods: The survey included a total of 73 participants, 45 female and 28 male, aged 20 years and above, with a diagnosis of sensitive skin syndrome (SSS) confirmed by physicians. A dermatological exam assessing skin type, phototype and skin sensitivity was performed. The survey collected an assortment of information including demographics and included customized standardized questionnaires that closely examine skin sensitivity and the burden of sensitive skin.
Results: Findings concurred with existing evidence that individuals with sensitive skin represent almost half the examined population. The prevalence of perceived sensitive skin was significantly higher in females than in males. The main skin symptom was itching, followed by prickling, warmth and numbness. Our results clearly show that there is a burden of sensitive skin.
Conclusion: This study investigated the prevalence of sensitive skin and the burden of sensitive skin in the population of Herzegovina-Neretva County. It is the first to focus on sensitive skin among Herzegovina-Neretva County population. Further studies are needed to bolster epidemiological data and physiological pathways of sensitive skin syndrome.