#Japan #Tokyo #IC Clinic #skin issues #Year-End Care

The Dilemma of Skin Care During the Year-End Rush

As the year comes to an end, many individuals find themselves overwhelmed with a long list of tasks — cleaning, preparing for family gatherings, and shopping. These demands often lead to self-care, particularly skin care, being sidelined. A recent survey conducted by the Tekketsukai Medical Corporation, which operates IC Clinics across Tokyo, sheds light on this pressing issue.

Survey Overview

To understand the trends surrounding skin care during the holiday season, a survey was conducted from December 1 to December 10, 2024, targeting 300 working adults aged between 20 to 50 years old who have experienced changes in their skin care routine during this period.

Results: Skin Care Takes a Backseat

According to the survey, over 74% of respondents indicated that their skin care routines are significantly reduced or postponed during the end of the year. Specifically, 32.7% cited a dramatic decrease in their skin care practices, while 41.6% reported a slight reduction. This suggests that the busy nature of the season greatly impacts individuals' commitment to skin care.

Reasons Behind Neglecting Skin Care

When asked why they tended to neglect skin care, the majority of respondents identified fatigue as the primary reason. An overwhelming 71% responded that they are simply too tired to prioritize self-care. Other contributing factors included being swamped by cleaning duties (67.4%) and being busy with year-end shopping and preparations (58.3%).

These findings highlight the exhausting cycle many find themselves in during the festive season, where physical and mental fatigue makes personal care a low priority.

Rise in Skin Problems

The survey further revealed that a staggering 68.4% of the participants reported experiencing some worsening skin issues during the holiday season. There appears to be a strong connection between the declining skin care routines during the busy period and the increase in skin problems.

Common Skin Problems Identified

Among the skin issues reported, dry hands were the most common, affecting 72.6% of respondents. This was followed by facial dryness at 65.4% and redness/itchiness at 48.2%. The increase in water activities from cleaning and dry indoor air from heating, in conjunction with a lack of skin care, exacerbates these skin troubles.

Attitude Towards Skin Care

The survey also probed attitudes towards skin care during the holidays. Alarmingly, 36.8% of participants said they have given up on skin care efforts, and 28.4% felt they could simply resume care in the New Year. In total, 65.2% expressed a tendency to neglect skin care during this busy period.

Conclusion of the Survey

In conclusion, the survey reveals that a significant percentage of the population struggles with skin care during the hectic end-of-year period. Many respondents admit to postponing skin care due to fatigue and domestic responsibilities, triggering various skin issues such as dry hands, facial dryness, and irritation.
Despite the pressures of the holiday season, it is crucial not to completely give up on skin care. Incorporating quick and easy skincare routines, or what is referred to as “while-you-wait care,” can help alleviate possible skin troubles.

Doctor's Comments

Dr. Kōta Takakuwa from IC Clinic noted, “This survey highlights a concerning trend where many individuals neglect their skin care during the year-end, leading to worsened skin conditions. It is essential to address skin protection during this period.” He advises patients to utilize simple yet effective methods, such as wearing rubber gloves during tasks that increase hand exposure to water and applying hand cream afterward.

Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of moisturizing after baths to combat dryness from heating systems. Rather than viewing skin troubles as unavoidable, Dr. Takakuwa encourages individuals to seek help at the clinic for any persistent issues.

IC Clinic Locations

For anyone seeking skincare assistance, IC Clinic offers multiple locations throughout Tokyo:

• - Shinjuku Clinic: 3-minute walk from Shinjuku Station South Exit.
• - Shibuya Clinic: 3-minute walk from Shibuya Station.
• - Ueno Clinic: 1-minute walk from Ueno Station.
• - Ikebukuro Clinic: 5-minute walk from Ikebukuro Station East Exit.
• - Tokyo Clinic: 5-minute walk from Tokyo Station.
• - Omiya Clinic (Saitama): 1-minute walk from Omiya Station East Exit.

For appointments, feel free to contact us.