Four in five people say skin condition flare-ups leave them feeling anxious or depressed, new British Skin Foundation survey reveals
New research from the British Skin Foundation reveals the significant emotional impact of living with a skin condition, with four in five people saying flare-ups make them feel more anxious or depressed. The findings highlight the need for greater recognition of the mental health challenges faced by those living with skin conditions.
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Mental health conversations are being missed
Despite this, nearly three-quarters (73%) said a healthcare professional has never discussed the mental health impact of their condition.
The survey also highlights the wider impact skin disease can have on daily life. More than half (57%) said their condition affects their personal or romantic relationships, while almost four in ten (40%) feel pressured to hide or cover up their skin in public. One in five respondents (20%) reported experiencing bullying because of their skin condition.
Particularly concerning, 14% said they had experienced suicidal thoughts and/or self-harm linked to the impact of their skin condition, underlining the need for better psychological support alongside dermatological care.
We need greater awareness of psychodermatology services, better integration of mental health support into skin care pathways, and more recognition that treating a skin condition means caring for the whole person, not just their symptoms. Some of the findings are deeply concerning. No one should feel isolated, stigmatised or unsupported because of a skin condition, yet too many people continue to struggle in silence. Access to psychological support should not depend on where someone lives or what condition they have.
Professor Andrew Thompson, British Skin Foundation spokesperson and Clinical Psychologist at Cardiff University
The survey also found that nearly one in three respondents (30%) spend more than two hours every day worrying about their skin, while 64% believe there is not enough free or accessible mental health support available.
Living with stigma and isolation
People often assume a skin condition is only a cosmetic issue, but they don't see the impact it can have on your confidence, relationships and mental health. There were times when I felt incredibly isolated, and having someone acknowledge that emotional impact would have made a huge difference.
Laurelle-Marie Sterling, who lives with hidradenitis suppurativa
Why psychodermatology support matters
We know that skin disease and mental health are closely linked. Psychological distress can worsen skin symptoms, while skin conditions can significantly affect a person's wellbeing. These findings reinforce the importance of recognising the emotional burden of skin disease and ensuring patients have access to appropriate support.
Dr Emma Wedgeworth, Consultant Dermatologist and British Skin Foundation spokesperson
With thanks
The British Skin Foundation would like to thank the following organisations for supporting the distribution of the Psychodermatology & Me Survey: Skin Health Alliance, Alopecia UK, The Hidradenitis Suppurativa Support Network, Changing Faces, Caring Matters Now, DEBRA, National Eczema Society, Herpes Viruses Association, Ichthyosis Support Group, PEM Friends, Psoriasis Association, Skcin, Eczema Outreach Support, Vitiligo Society and Skin of Colour Training UK.
Social media: a source of support—and pressure
The survey also explored the role of social media. While almost half (49%) use it to connect with others living with skin conditions and 43.1% find it a helpful source of support, 13% said social media pressure negatively affects their confidence and mental health.