Background

Facial skin redness can have a negative impact on the quality of life. In this study, we investigated the skin biophysical parameters associated with facial skin redness as a function of aging.

Methods

Our aims were as follows: (1) to understand the impact of non-pathological facial skin redness on the quality of life of Korean women through a survey; and (2) compare skin biophysical properties between women with and without facial skin redness.

Results

Women aged between 20 and 39 years perceived their own facial skin redness at a higher rate than those aged ≥40 years. In addition, in redness-prone women, the intensity of skin redness and skin surface perfusion were higher, while skin hydration was lower regardless of age. In redness-prone women aged ≥40 years, the values for transepidermal water loss, elasticity, and skin thickness were lower, and the mean pore depth was greater. Facial redness intensity was higher, and the distribution was wider in redness-prone younger women, while only redness intensity increased in the older age group.

Conclusions

Overall, redness-prone women aged ≥40 years had weaker skin properties. Our study indicated the age-related biophysical characteristics of non-pathological facial skin redness. We believe that our findings will help improve its negative effects.