Skin Deep by Galderma: Leadership. Science. Skin.

When we talk about skin diseases, we often focus on what we can see. But for those living with severe dermatological conditions, some of the most disruptive symptoms are the ones that remain invisible - the relentless itch, the sleepless nights, the emotional toll.

As we recently marked the inaugural World Prurigo Day and World Skin Health Day, we’re taking a closer look at the real-life impact of conditions like atopic dermatitis (AD) and prurigo nodularis (PN). Through patient voices and expert insights, we explore how these conditions affect not just the skin, but the whole person and often times, those around them.

For many patients, the physical discomfort of AD and PN is only part of the story. The emotional and psychological burden can be just as debilitating.

These are not isolated experiences. People with AD are three times more likely to experience anxiety, while PN patients face twice the risk of mental health challenges. These statistics reflect a deeper truth: these conditions affect every aspect of life - from self-esteem to social connections.

The cost of a lost night’s sleep

Sleep disturbance is an all too familiar burden for patients with AD and PN, as the itch doesn’t stop when the lights go out.

Some patients experience days, or even weeks, without enough sleep, which has repercussions for work, school, and relationships.

This kind of sleep loss isn’t just exhausting, it’s life-altering. It affects concentration, productivity, and emotional resilience. And yet, it’s often overlooked in treatment conversations.

Listening to patients, leading with science

At Galderma, we believe that science must start with listening. That’s why we are committed to understanding the full spectrum of patient needs - not just the clinical symptoms, but the human experience

Spotlight on World Prurigo Day

To mark the first-ever World Prurigo Day on June 21, Galderma united voices globally through a series of impactful activities. Coinciding with the International Congress of Dermatology (ICD) 2025, the day featured an online event, as well as local presential events in Europe, bringing together experts, clinicians, and patients to share the latest insights on PN. We raised awareness of the burden of PN across our social media channels, with Galderma leaders also contributing to the conversation. We also shared perspectives from patients and dermatology experts within an article on our website, highlighting the physical and emotional toll of PN, which is frequently misunderstood and misdiagnosed, sometimes even mistaken for a mental health condition.

Eugenia, a patient living with PN, bravely shared her experience of isolation and distress caused by the disease. “It impacted me in such a negative way that I felt secluded,” she said, describing how the visible nodules led her to withdraw from social situations. Her story underscores the urgent need for greater awareness, empathy, and support for those living with PN.

In a recent LinkedIn article, Christophe Piketty (Vice President, Head of Innovation, Therapeutic Dermatology, Global Clinical Sciences at Galderma), emphasized the need for long-term research and collaboration to better understand PN. Speaking from ICD 2025, he highlighted the emotional and physical burden of PN. Eugenia’s story of sleepless nights and the struggle to be heard underscores why patient voices must guide scientific progress. Piketty calls for deeper investment in data generation, awareness, education and patient-centered care to bring lasting relief to those affected.

At the ICD 2025 event, we enjoyed engaging the global dermatology community through a medical symposium, exhibitor booth, and late-breaker session. We thank our faculty and visitors for helping spotlight our commitment to advancing dermatology.

Let’s keep the conversation going

As we continue to elevate awareness and drive progress in dermatology, your engagement and support remain essential. Let’s keep the momentum going by amplifying patient voices, sharing knowledge, and working together to make a lasting impact for patients.

Explore more stories, insights, and resources on Galderma.com and follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram to stay connected.

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