Skin Quality Index Works to Bridge the Communication Gap Between Clinicians and Patients

Key Takeaways

The Problem: Research found that while patients understand each other, they often use different language than their doctors, leading to mismatched expectations.

The Solution: A unified “shared language” consisting of 15 defined terms to streamline consultations. The terms are broken up into four categories:

• Visible Color Changes
• Topographical Changes
• Hydration and Sebum/Oil Changes
• Mechanical Changes

The Data: The index was built on a massive review of 900+ publications and surveys of over 1,000 patients and 200+ providers.

Resources: New educational tools, including an interactive quiz in collaboration with New Beauty, are being rolled out to help patients get fluent in “skin-speak.”

Allergan Aesthetics has launched the Skin Quality Index (SQI), a standardized vocabulary designed to fix communication breakdowns between patients and healthcare providers. Based on comprehensive research published in Dermatologic Surgery, the SQI provides 15 consensus terms across four categories of skin health. The goal is to move away from confusing jargon and ensure that when a patient describes a concern, the provider hears exactly what they mean, leading to more personalized and effective treatments.

Usually, when a patient describes their skin, they use one set of words; when a doctor hears them, they might be thinking in entirely different clinical terms. This disconnect can lead to “meh” results and planning headaches. To solve this, Allergan conducted the most extensive research to date—analyzing two decades of medical papers and surveying over a thousand people—to create a “gold standard” vocabulary.

What the SQI brings to the table:

• 15 Universal Terms: Clear definitions that cover the four main dimensions of skin quality.
• Empowered Patients: No more guessing games. Patients can now articulate exactly what they want to improve.
• Precision Planning: Providers can better understand patient goals, leading to more accurate treatment plans and better aesthetic outcomes.

As Dr. Shannon Humphrey, the study’s lead investigator, puts it, this is a “paradigm shift.” It’s no longer just about looking better; it’s about ensuring the conversation is better. To get the word out, Allergan has launched a suite of resources, including a collaboration with New Beauty to help you figure out where your patients’ skin stands before you even step into the office.

Visit skinqualityindex.newbeauty.com for the index, research, tools and more.