Cosmetic product “pilling” refers to the formation of small flakes or particles on the skin after the application of skincare or makeup products. Although commonly experienced by consumers, this phenomenon remains poorly documented. To better understand its occurrence, causes, and impact on users, we conducted a large survey involving 2,300 consumers. The study aimed to explore the skincare routines associated with pilling, identify the products most frequently involved, and evaluate consumer perceptions and reactions to this issue.
The survey confirms that pilling is a very common experience. Overall, 62.4% of respondents reported having experienced pilling with a cosmetic product. Among those affected, the phenomenon occurs occasionally for most users, while a smaller proportion experience it regularly.
Statistical analysis shows that the occurrence of pilling varies significantly according to both gender and age. Women report pilling more frequently than men, and certain age groups appear slightly more affected than others.
When and Where Does Pilling Occur?
Pilling most frequently occurs in the morning, typically during or shortly after product application. It most commonly appears:
- when rubbing or touching the skin (47.8%),
- when applying another product on top (41.4%).
The issue mainly affects facial areas, particularly the cheeks (53.3%) and forehead (34.7%), although it can sometimes appear across the entire face.
Products and Factors Associated with Pilling
Respondents identified several types of products that are frequently associated with pilling. The most commonly mentioned include moisturizing creams (48.6%), foundations (24.6%), and serums (23.9%).
The survey also highlights several factors that may contribute to the phenomenon. The most frequently cited include:
- layering multiple products (52.2%),
- incompatibility between product formulas (31.7%),
- rich or thick textures (14.8%).
These findings suggest that pilling is often linked not only to a single product but also to interactions between products within complex skincare routines.
Impact on Consumer Perception
Although pilling is primarily a cosmetic inconvenience, it can significantly influence user experience. Approximately 64% of respondents reported that pilling affects their self-confidence during the day, at least to some extent.
Furthermore, almost half of participants (48.9%) stated that the issue influences their choice of cosmetic products, while another quarter indicated that it sometimes affects their purchasing decisions.
On a scale from 0 to 10, respondents rated the level of annoyance caused by pilling at an average of 6.5, indicating that it is perceived as a moderately significant concern in everyday skincare routines.
Conclusion
This survey highlights that cosmetic pilling is a frequent and significant issue for consumers, particularly in the context of multi-step skincare routines involving several layered products. The results emphasize the importance for cosmetic formulators and brands to consider product compatibility, formulation textures, and clear application guidelines in order to minimize pilling and improve the overall consumer experience.
Contact
Séverine Freyssinet – Analysis & Quality Director
severine.freyssinet@syres.fr
Discover more about Syres expertise here: https://www.skinobs.com/c/labo.php?id=145
