Authors: Shruti Karosiya (021331025430), Diksha Patil (021331025131), Subhodeep Pal (021331025463)
Introduction:
Skincare has increasingly gained attention as a key component of personal wellness among today’s generation, influenced by evolving lifestyles, higher pollution exposure, and the strong presence of media and beauty culture. The rise in AQI levels has heightened concerns about skin-related issues, encouraging individuals to explore different skincare approaches, such as natural home remedies and commercially branded products. Despite this growing interest, there is insufficient clarity regarding the actual importance people place on skincare and how it affects their product preferences and spending patterns. This survey seeks to examine skincare awareness, perceptions, practices, and the impact of environmental pollution on skincare behaviour among the current generation.
Objective:
To understand the underlying issues related to skincare awareness, attitudes, and practices among today’s generation in the context of environmental pollution and lifestyle influences.
Literature Review:
Previous studies indicate that skincare has become an essential part of personal health management due to increasing urbanization, lifestyle changes, and environmental pollution. Research highlights that rising AQI levels and exposure to pollutants contribute to various skin problems such as acne, dryness, premature aging, and irritation, prompting individuals to adopt preventive skincare measures. Existing literature also suggests a growing reliance on both natural home remedies and branded skincare products, influenced by media, social trends, and perceived effectiveness. However, several studies point out a lack of awareness regarding scientifically informed skincare practices, with many individuals making choices based on trends rather than skin-specific needs. This gap in understanding underscores the need for further research into skincare attitudes, practices, and spending behaviour among today’s generation.
Data Collection:
For the above problem, 5 statements were framed on a Likert Scale. This scale measures the intensity of agreement, typically ranging from 1 (Strongly Disagree) to 5 (Strongly Agree). For every statement, the mean, standard deviation, standard error, and t-stat were calculated. The statements are as follows:
Statement 1: People actively care about their skin health and appearance as part of my daily routine.
Statement 2: Skincare is an important priority for them compared to other personal care or lifestyle choices.
Statement 3: Rising AQI levels and environmental pollution have negatively impacted their skin (such as acne, dullness, irritation, or premature aging).
Statement 4: People use home-based or natural skincare remedies (DIY masks, traditional ingredients, and home treatments) to take care of their skin.
Statement 5: People are willing to spend money on branded skincare products or professional skincare treatments to maintain healthy skin.
Data Analysis:
Mean, Standard Deviation, Standard Error and T-Statistic for each statement are as follows:
| Q1 | Q2 | Q3 | Q4 | Q5 | |
| Mean | 3.60 | 3.35 | 3.90 | 3.40 | 3.46 |
| Standard Deviation | 1.17 | 1.15 | 1.14 | 1.24 | 1.17 |
| Standard Error | 0.17 | 0.17 | 0.16 | 0.18 | 0.17 |
| t-stat | 3.58 | 2.14 | 5.44 | 2.22 | 2.71 |
· t >+1.96 – Accept Positive Alternate Hypothesis (u > 3)
People Agree.
· -1.96 ≤ t ≤ +1.96 Accept Null Hypothesis (u – 3)
People are Neutral, accept Null Hypothesis
· t<-1.96 – Accept Negative Alternate Hypothesis (1< 3)
People Disagree, Accept alternate hypothesis.
Statement 1: Since the t-statistic exceeds +1.96, respondents agree that they actively care about their skin health and appearance.
Statement 2: As the t-statistic is greater than +1.96, respondents consider skincare an important priority in their daily lives.
Statement 3: With the highest t-statistic among all statements, respondents strongly agree that rising AQI and pollution have a noticeable negative impact on their skin.
Statement 4: Since the t-statistic is above +1.96, respondents generally agree that they use home-based or natural skincare remedies.
Statement 5: As the t-statistic exceeds +1.96, respondents show a positive willingness to spend on branded skincare products or treatments.
Reference:
literature review on skincare awareness and environmental impact:
1. Krutmann, J., Bouloc, A., Sore, G., Bernard, B. A., & Passeron, T. (2017). The skin aging exposome. Journal of Dermatological Science, 85(3), 152–161.
2. Vierkötter, A., & Krutmann, J. (2012). Environmental influences on skin aging and ethnic-specific manifestations. Dermato-Endocrinology, 4(3), 227–231.