The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has released its complete list of 24 skin conditions that may entitle individuals to the Personal Independence Payment (PIP), a benefit many sufferers may not realize they can claim.
PIP provides essential financial assistance to millions across England and Wales. As of April 2026, over 3.7 million claimants rely on this tax-free, non-means-tested benefit to help with extra costs arising from long-term disabilities, physical health conditions, or mental health issues. The payment is designed to support daily living needs.
Among the skin conditions that could qualify for PIP are eczema, varicose veins, dermatitis, psoriasis, and rosacea. If your skin condition significantly impacts your day-to-day life, you may be eligible.
PIP can be claimed while in employment, education, or with savings. It consists of a daily living component and a mobility component. Claimants may receive one, both, or neither, depending on their assessment.
In January 2026, the DWP updated payment rates following a 3.8% inflationary increase, adding 92 new conditions to the eligibility list. The current rates are as follows:
- Daily Living Component: Standard rate £76.70 per week; Enhanced rate £114.60 per week.
- Mobility Component: Standard rate £30.30 per week; Enhanced rate £80.00 per week.
You may qualify for PIP if you meet all these requirements:
- You are aged 16 or above.
- You have a long-term physical or mental health condition or disability.
- You face challenges with specific daily activities or mobility.
- You expect these difficulties to last at least 12 months from onset.
Here is the full list of 24 skin conditions for which PIP was claimed as of January 2026 (the most recent data), along with the number of claimants for each. The total number of claimants is 29,634.
- Acne vulgaris: 19
- Eczema - varicose: 171
- Eczema (dermatitis): 1,440
- Papulosquamous and inflammatory rashes - Other/type not known: 913
- Psoriasis: 2,213
- Rosacea: 17
- Urticaria: 249
- Bullous disease - Other/type not known: 150
- Dermatitis herpetiformis: 49
- Epidermolysis bullosa: 317
- Pemphigoid: 32
- Pemphigus vulgaris: 36
- Blood vessels/lymphatics - Other diseases of/type not known: 1,137
- Leg ulcers (arterial): 638
- Leg ulcers (venous): 1,123
- Lymphoedema: 6,356
- Pressure sores: 19
- Venous insufficiency - chronic: 156
- Collagen and elastic tissue - Other diseases of/type not known: 154
- Ehlers-Danlos syndrome: 7,175
- Burns: 763
- Skin disease - Other/type not known: 2,318
- Cellulitis: 906
- Infections/other: 315
To start a claim, call the DWP on 0800 917 2222. This initial contact is crucial for backdating purposes if your claim is later approved. You will then be sent the 'PIP2' form titled 'How your disability affects you'. Further information and application guidance are available on the Gov.uk website.
