Brits Embrace Unusual DIY Skincare Methods, Study Finds
A fascinating new study has uncovered the bizarre skincare hacks that Brits swear by, ranging from placing teabags on puffy eyes to using egg yolk for rough skin and even applying baking soda as an exfoliant. The research, which surveyed 2,000 adults, highlights a series of interesting DIY cosmetic habits that many people adopt in pursuit of healthier skin.
Popular DIY Skincare Trends and Their Risks
The study discovered that one in three Brits, or 32 percent, have experimented with DIY skincare regimes. However, 18 percent of these individuals reported experiencing a negative reaction as a result. As many as 15 percent revealed they use at least one DIY hack weekly, with seven percent admitting they are willing to try anything that might improve their appearance.
Common DIY methods include using avocado as a face scrub, creating hand treatments from strawberries, and applying green tea as a skin rinse. Others turn to lemon juice for skin brightening, indulge in oatmeal baths, or use yoghurt as a facemask. Despite the popularity of these hacks, the research underscores the potential risks involved.
The Role of Laundry Detergent in Skincare
The research was commissioned by laundry detergent brand Surcare, which has appointed Katie Piper OBE as their brand and wellness consultant. The aim is to encourage people to consider the impact of clothing on skin health. Piper emphasized, "When you think about how often our skin is in contact with clothing, bedding and towels, it becomes clear that skincare doesn't start in the bathroom, it starts with what touches your skin every day."
She added that fabrics act as a second skin, and traces of detergent can remain in fibres, potentially causing irritation. Piper advocates for using dermatologically approved laundry products to support skin health without adding complexity or risk.
Spending Habits and Motivations Behind DIY Skincare
On average, participants admitted to spending £146 annually on skincare products, with Millennials leading at £205 per year compared to just £80 for Boomers. Motivations for using DIY hacks include:
- 30 percent use them for natural ingredients.
- 19 percent aim to avoid harsh chemicals.
- 21 percent find them cheaper than store-bought products.
Primarily, these methods are used to prevent skin issues (49 percent), but 33 percent turn to them for self-care and wellbeing, while four percent do so because influencers and celebrities promote them.
Skin Issues and Common Solutions
The study found that 56 percent of those polled have experienced a skin issue or condition, such as eczema, dermatitis, acne, or sensitive skin. Common methods to address these issues include:
- Using skincare products like creams or serums (48 percent).
- Drinking more water (45 percent).
- Getting prescription medication from a doctor (36 percent).
Additionally, 26 percent use supplements, 24 percent have tried changing their diet, and 30 percent have switched laundry detergent to improve skin health. However, more than half (52 percent) do not consider their laundry detergent as part of their skincare routine, and only 75 percent are confident their detergent is suitable for skin health.
Top 20 Skincare Hacks Tried by Brits
The research compiled a list of the most popular DIY skincare hacks, including:
- Cucumber slices on eyes
- Toothpaste on spots
- Aloe vera gel for soothing skin
- Using SPF lip balm
- Applying sun cream even in winter
- Coconut oil as a moisturiser
- Applying teabags to puffy eyes
- Using a silk pillowcase
- Keeping skincare products in the fridge
- Bathing in sea salt
- Honey as a facemask
- Lemon juice for brightening skin
- DIY sugar scrub for lips
- Avocado face scrub
- Applying yoghurt as a soothing mask
- Using egg yolk to treat rough skin
- Oatmeal baths
- Green tea rinse for skin
- Baking soda as an exfoliant
- Strawberry hand treatments
Katie Piper concluded, "From toothpaste on spots to applying honey as a face mask, people often experiment with different beauty trends in the hope of better skin, but I've learned that true care is usually found in simple, everyday choices that support your wellbeing over time." She stressed the importance of choosing laundry formulations that are kind to skin, without fragrances, dyes, or enzymes, as part of a holistic skincare approach.
