Rising pressure for 'flawless skin' intensifies skin anxiety across UK, data finds

For those living with skin conditions like acne, eczema or psoriasis, social media trends - such as the pursuit of 'glass-like skin' - have intensified pressure to achieve flawless appearances, affecting 77% of UK adults.

This rises to 85% for millennials and 93% for Gen Z, according to new research by private pharmacy Roseway Labs, which highlights the growing impact of skin conditions on mental health across the UK.

In fact, more than half (53%) of those surveyed feel self-conscious due to their skin condition, with millennials reporting the highest levels of insecurity at 57%.

The data also reveals that for many respondents, their skin condition disrupts their peace of mind, with 38% of UK adults frequently thinking about their skin.

Plus, 76% report feeling more anxious about their skin during the summer, meaning that as temperatures rise, so does their skin-related anxiety.

It comes as NHS England reports that half of UK adults experience a skin condition each year, with an estimated 35 million currently affected.

Elizabeth Philp, founder and CEO at Roseway Labs, said: "Millions of people across the UK are struggling, every day, with visible skin conditions that affect their confidence and quality of life.

"This is seen and experienced even more acutely by younger people, who are shaped by social media’s unrealistic skin ideals.

"Our research shows this distress peaks in summer, when flare-ups from UV exposure, pollution and allergens combine with the pressure of baring more skin - and, worryingly, nearly four in five haven’t found a treatment that works."

The research also indicates that 79% of people find GP-prescribed or over-the-counter treatments ineffective, prompting many to turn to off-the-shelf solutions, spending an average of £177.48 annually. Despite this, they continue to face persistent skin issues, side effects, and limited awareness of personalised alternatives.

It comes as Roseway Labs has experienced a 31% year-on-year increase in inquiries for dermatological treatments, highlighting a rising demand from individuals seeking greater confidence in their skin.