Age Perception

Wrinkles and fine lines have long been the focus of age-targeted interventions, but advanced technology has brought forth new measures to give us the full picture of how age is perceived, and with that, the ability to develop treatments targeting these various factors. In a study presented at the 2007 American Academy of Dermatology annual meeting and published in the November 2006 issue of Evolution and Human Behavior,, P&G Beauty researchers established the degree to which skin tone affects perception of age, healthiness and youth.  

In the study, researchers (Matts, Fink and Grammar) isolated the role that skin tone plays in the perception of age. Digital facial images were taken using a custom high-resolution digital imaging system and cross-polarised lighting was introduced to eliminate skin surface texture. 3-D facial forms were created and shown to 430 people who were asked to estimate the biological age (ranging from 10 to 60 years of age) and rate each image according to 15 attributes to assess perceived attractiveness, health and apparent skin condition.

The study found:

• 3-D forms with more homogeneous skin were rated as younger, healthier and more attractive as compared to those with less homogeneous skin tone.
• Estimated biological age ranged from 17 to 37 years, demonstrating that uneven skin tone alone can account for up to 20 years of age perception, independent of facial form and topography.
• Melanin concentration and distribution played a major role in the perception of age. Strategies to improve aging skin should address color distribution in addition to other features.

Grammer K, Fink B, Matts P. Visible skin color distribution plays a major role in perception of age, attractiveness and health in the female face. Human Behavior and Evolution Society Annual Meeting. Philadelphia, Penn, 2006. Poster # 53.