Perceptions of sensitive skin of the genital area.

BACKGROUND

People with sensitive skin vary in the signs and symptoms they experience, and in the degree of sensitivity at different anatomical sites. The goal of this study is to determine patterns of perceived sensitivity of the skin of the genital area using an epidemiological approach among a general population.

METHODS

Questionnaires designed to evaluate perceptions of sensitive skin in general and at specific anatomical sites (face, body and genital area) were given to 1,039 people. Questions included perceptions of sensitive skin in general and at 3 specific anatomical sites (the face, the body and the genital area). In addition, responders were asked about reactions to certain products and environmental factors.

RESULTS

Over half of the responders (56.3%) perceived that the skin of the genital area was sensitive. A significantly higher percentage of African-Americans perceived their genital skin as sensitive compared to Caucasians (66.4 and 54.2%, respectively; p = 0.0096). A significantly higher number of Caucasian females claimed sensitive genital skin compared to Caucasian males (57.0 and 37.3%, respectively; p < 0.0001). In women, the perception of sensitive skin of the genital area is dependent on age and increases in older subjects. Perceived sensitive skin in general, or sensitive skin of the face or body, was not dependent on ethnicity, gender or age. The factor most strongly associated with sensitive genital skin was rough fabrics.

CONCLUSIONS

The pattern of responses among different ethnicities, genders and age groups for perceived sensitive genital skin differs from that at the other anatomical sites evaluated in the study. Increasing our understanding in perceived sensitive skin in the genital area is needed.