Understanding Skin's Role in First Impressions
Recent research from the I.C. Clinic, a renowned medical facility in Tokyo specializing in dermatology and plastic surgery, sheds light on the importance of skin in social interactions. Conducted from November 1 to November 15, 2025, the survey targeted 300 working adults aged 20 to 50 across Japan. The findings reveal surprising insights into how skin health and appearance directly influence first impressions and interpersonal evaluations.
First Impressions: What Do We Notice?
The study aimed to explore what features people notice first when meeting someone new. Results showed that eyes remain the most prominent focus, reported by 38.7% of respondents. However, skin ranked a significant second at 23.3%, indicating that its condition plays a crucial role in how we form initial perceptions of others.
| Feature | Percentage |
|---|
| ---- | -- |
| Eyes/Eyelids | 38.7% |
| Overall Skin | 23.3% |
| Mouth/Teeth | 15.7% |
| Hair | 11.3% |
| Face Shape | 6.7% |
| Eyebrows | 4.3% |
Key Observations About Others' Skin
When analyzing what aspects of others’ skin they found most concerning, participants highlighted pore visibility and blackheads, with 52.3% noting that as their primary attention point. Other aspects included acne and its scars (48.7%) and skin dullness (43.0%). The study found noticeable differences between genders; women expressed more concern over pores and dullness, while men were more likely to focus on acne and redness.
| Concern | Overall | Male | Female |
|---|
| ------ | - | - | ---- |
| Pore Visibility | 52.3% | 41.2% | 63.4% |
| Acne/Scars | 48.7% | 52.8% | 44.6% |
| Skin Dullness | 43.0% | 34.7% | 51.3% |
| Redness | 38.3% | 42.1% | 34.5% |
| Freckles/Blemishes | 35.7% | 28.9% | 42.5% |
| Oily/Shiny Skin | 31.0% | 38.6% | 23.4% |
| Skin Irritation/Dryness | 27.3% | 22.4% | 32.2% |
| Wrinkles/Sagging | 19.7% | 15.3% | 24.1% |
Comparing Self and Others' Skin
Perhaps most telling was the question of whether individuals are more concerned with their own skin or that of others. A remarkable 54.3% admitted they focus more on others' skin than their own, suggesting a fascinating psychological truth: we may be acutely aware of how others perceive our skin, often more than we believe.
Skin Condition's Influence on Perceptions
An overwhelming 87% of respondents affirmed that skin condition significantly influences perceptions of cleanliness and trustworthiness. A combined 34.3% felt it