VIENNA – October 02, 2026 -- New research from CeraVe, surveying 6,000 adults across the UK, France, Germany, Italy and Spain, finds a wide gap between what people know about skin health and what they actually do about it.
Nine in ten adults worry about their skin, but few take protective action
The study found 90% of respondents are concerned about at least one environmental factor affecting their skin, and 81% recognise that protection beyond sun exposure matters. Despite this, only 22% use products specifically designed to support the skin barrier.
Nearly half report their skin has become more sensitive in five years
Forty-seven percent of those surveyed say their skin is more sensitive than it was five years ago, and 50% report dryness they link to environmental or weather changes. Even so, just 10% adjust their skincare routine when pollution levels rise, and 55% say they will abandon a routine altogether if it isn't simple.
Findings were presented at a major dermatology congress in Vienna
CeraVe unveiled the research at the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology Congress in Vienna, bringing together dermatologists, scientists and brand representatives to discuss skin-barrier education.
Dr Andrew Park, a board-certified dermatologist, said people often experience dryness, tightness or sensitivity without connecting these symptoms to the skin barrier. He noted that CeraVe formulations include three skin-identical ceramides intended to help restore and maintain the barrier, and that the brand's products undergo evaluation for safety and efficacy.
CeraVe says every formulation goes through safety and efficacy review
According to the company, products are assessed for safety, efficacy, tolerability and suitability during development, with claims validated by internal Safety, Claims and Regulatory teams before release.
Gene Colon, CeraVe's Global Senior Vice President of Medical Relations and Communications, said the research shows people are paying closer attention to their skin, but that greater awareness creates a stronger need for clear, trustworthy guidance. He said the company's aim is to make skin health easier to understand without compromising on scientific rigor.