Brits Embrace Unconventional Skincare Hacks: Teabags, Egg Yolk, and Baking Soda Take Center Stage
A recent study has unveiled the peculiar DIY skincare routines that Brits are adopting, with methods like placing teabags on puffy eyes, applying egg yolk to treat rough skin, and using baking soda as an exfoliant gaining popularity. The research, commissioned by laundry detergent brand Surcare, surveyed 2,000 adults and discovered a range of interesting homemade cosmetic practices aimed at achieving healthier skin.
DIY Skincare Trends and Their Risks
The findings reveal that one in three Brits (32%) have experimented with DIY skincare regimes. However, 18% of these individuals reported experiencing negative reactions as a result. Notably, 15% of participants use at least one DIY hack weekly, and 7% admitted they are willing to try 'anything' to enhance their appearance. Common motivations for these practices include the use of natural ingredients (30%), avoidance of harsh chemicals (19%), and cost savings compared to store-bought products (21%).
Despite these efforts, the average participant spends £146 annually on skincare products, with Millennials leading at £205 per year, compared to just £80 for Boomers. The primary goal for using these hacks is to prevent skin issues (49%), while 33% engage in them for self-care and wellbeing, and 4% follow trends set by influencers and celebrities.
Skin Health Challenges and Solutions
The study also highlighted that 56% of those polled have experienced skin conditions such as eczema, dermatitis, acne, or sensitive skin. To address these issues, 48% turn to skincare products like creams or serums, 45% increase their water intake, and 36% seek prescription medication from doctors. Additionally, 26% use supplements, 24% modify their diets, and 30% switch laundry detergents to improve skin health.
However, more than half (52%) do not consider their laundry detergent as part of their skincare routine to avoid irritation, and only 75% are confident that their detergent is suitable for skin health. This is concerning given that participants spend an average of nearly 16 hours daily in contact with fabrics, according to OnePoll.com data.
Expert Insights from Katie Piper OBE
Katie Piper OBE, appointed as Surcare's brand and wellness consultant, emphasized the importance of holistic skincare. She stated, "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." Piper added that traces of detergent can remain in fabrics, which act as a 'second skin,' making it crucial to choose dermatologically approved laundry products to reduce irritation.
She further noted, "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." Piper advocates for using laundry formulations without fragrances, dyes, or enzymes to complement traditional skincare routines.
Top 20 Skincare Hacks Tried by Brits
- Cucumber slices on eyes
- Toothpaste on spots
- Aloe vera gel for soothing skin
- Using SPF lip balm
- Applying sun cream even in the 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
This comprehensive look into Brits' skincare habits underscores a growing trend towards natural and cost-effective solutions, while highlighting the need for informed choices to avoid adverse effects and promote overall skin health.
