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The wide use of cosmetics and their perceived benefits upon well-being imply objective descriptions of their effects upon the different dimensions contributing to the quality of life (QoL). Such a goal pleas for using relevant and validated scientific instruments with robust measurement methods. This paper discusses the interest of the new validated questionnaire BeautyQoL specifically designed to assess the effect of cosmetic products on physical appearance and QoL. After conducting a review of skin appearance and QoL, three phases of the international codevelopment have been carried out in the following sequence: semi-directed interviews (Phase 1), acceptability study (Phase 2), and validation study (Phase 3). Data collection and validation process have been carried out in 16 languages. This review confirms that QoL instruments developed in dermatology are not suitable to assess cosmetic products, mainly because of their lack of sensitivity. General acceptability of BeautyQol was very good. Forty-two questions have been structured in five dimensions that explained 76.7% of the total variance: Social Life, Self-confidence, Mood, Vitality, and Attractiveness. Cronbach's alpha coefficients are between 0.932 and 0.978, confirming the good internal consistency of the results. The BeautyQol questionnaire is the first international instrument specific to cosmetic products and physical appearance that has been validated in 16 languages and could be used in a number of clinical trials and descriptive studies to demonstrate the added value of these products on the QoL., (© 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

Skin pigmentary disorders and uneven skin tone represent common cosmetic concerns in Japan where fairer skin is culturally desirable. As the demographics of Asian countries continue to evolve, there is a need to understand the impact of cosmetic skin concerns on quality of life (QoL). 199 Japanese women self-claiming facial skin pigmentation disorders were asked to complete theBeautyQoLquestionnaire, and the results were compared with those of a control group of 200 women. Of the five dimensions of theBeautyQoLquestionnaire, the dimension “mood” appeared to be significantly lower in the group presenting facial dark spots, as compared with the control group (p< 0.05). In the group presenting facial dark spots, the five dimensions and the global score showed that subjects concerned had lower scores than subjects less concerned, even if statistical significance was not reached. This study confirms that common pigmentary disorders such as facial black spots may negatively impact QoL. Further comparative studies with a controlled randomized design would be necessary to confirm these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]