UK Skincare Report 2024

There are many myths and misconceptions about skincare products, such as how long they take to produce noticeable results, how many products a routine should include, or even what ingredients are the best.
However, with so much information at our fingertips, deciding on the best products for your skin type can be complicated and overwhelming.

At Tropic, we are on a mission to simplify skincare by highlighting the one natural ingredient product that can adapt to almost every skin concern: Tamanu Balm.

We surveyed 2,000 Brits to uncover the truth about people’s attitudes towards their skin. We’ve examined routines, habits, and mistakes and even debunked some common myths to show that skincare doesn’t need to be complicated.

Brits’ Attitudes Towards Their Skin

Over half of Brits (54%) report feeling insecure about the appearance of their skin. This insecurity is more common among women, with only 30% feeling confident about their skin compared to 39% of men.

This difference highlights a significant gender disparity in skin confidence. Additionally, generational insights reveal that 35% of Gen X regret not starting their skincare routines earlier, indicating a growing awareness and importance placed on skincare as people age.

Skincare Routines Across the UK

The UK skincare industry is booming, with over two million Brits spending more than £500 annually on their routines. Despite this significant investment, time constraints are a major hurdle, especially for Gen Z, 40% of whom feel 'too busy' to follow a consistent skincare routine.

1 in 3 Brits Expect to See Results Within a Week

For those incorporating new products, patience is limited; 1 in 3 (31%) Brits expect visible results within a week, even though experts suggest some products may take longer to show benefits. Women also find the skincare market overwhelming, with 29% feeling confused by the many available options.

Price, hydration, SPF, anti-ageing qualities, and natural ingredients are the most significant influences when Brits choose skincare products, with 54% prioritising affordability. Social media has a notable impact, too; 31% of millennials have purchased products influenced by TikTok trends. 

It’s Official: The Most Used Skincare Product is Moisturiser

The staple of most routines is moisturiser, used daily by 59% of people, followed by cleansers (33%) and SPF (24%). Retinoids are particularly popular among millennials, with 20% using them daily. Despite the popularity of skincare products, the average person spends just £11-£49 per year, highlighting a need for budget-friendly yet effective products.

Summer Skincare Habits

Razor bumps are a common issue during the hotter months, affecting 27% of Gen Z, prompting experts to recommend a miracle cream to alleviate this problem. Summer also brings its own set of skin challenges, including dry skin (34%), dehydrated lips (28%), sunburn (22%), heat rash (19%), and mosquito bites (19%), which are the top complaints among women.

Interestingly, residents of Aberystwyth are the biggest sufferers of dry skin and sunburn, with 50% admitting to struggling with both conditions in summer. Over a third (36%) of Glaswegians admit to experiencing dehydrated lips, whereas heat rash is most prevalent in Coventry (30%). When it comes to mosquito bites, Norwich locals are suffering the most, with more than a quarter (28%) feeling the sting of mosquito bites. 

1 in 3 Brits Admit to Sunbathing Without Sunscreen

Despite increased skin health awareness, 34% of Brits still don't apply SPF daily, with 44% of women admitting to this skincare oversight. This lapse in sun protection is alarming, especially since 32% of Brits confess to sunbathing without sunscreen, putting over 21 million people at risk of severe sunburn this summer.

Common Skincare Mistakes and Misconceptions

A significant portion of Gen Z (37%) is unaware of the expiration dates on skincare products, which can compromise the effectiveness and safety of their routines. Additionally, 37% of women admit to not removing their makeup at the end of the day, a habit that can lead to skin issues. There's also a misconception about the need for SPF indoors, with only 5% recognising its importance.

Men are less likely to have a skincare routine, with 22% admitting to neglecting it altogether, compared to just 7% of women.

Gen Z's biggest skincare mistakes include not moisturising (40%), overlooking product expiry dates (37%), skipping daily SPF (37%), sunbathing without protection (30%), and not researching product ingredients (27%). These findings underscore the need for better skincare education and habits among younger generations.

Tamanu’s Got You

Navigating the complex world of skincare can be daunting. Many Brits feel insecure about their skin, are overwhelmed by product choices, and often make common skincare mistakes. From the financial investment required to the confusion over which products give the best results, it's clear that a more straightforward, more effective solution is needed.

Enter…Tropic's Tamanu Balm.

Our Tamanu Balm is a multi-purpose wonder that addresses several key issues. For those struggling with skin confidence and wishing for earlier skincare interventions, this balm's healing properties can enhance skin health and appearance. Its potent natural ingredients offer hydration, a primary concern for many, and can provide the anti-ageing benefits a significant portion of the population seeks.

For busy Gen Z individuals who feel too pressed for time to maintain a comprehensive skincare routine, Tamanu Balm's multifaceted nature means fewer products are needed. Its soothing and healing properties are ideal for summer-specific issues like sunburn and razor bumps.

Tamanu Balm can be integrated easily into daily routines, ensuring skin remains nourished and protected. This balm offers a straightforward, effective solution for those overwhelmed by the variety of choices on the market and conflicting advice.

By simplifying skincare with our Tamanu Balm, you can easily overcome common skincare woes and achieve a healthier, more radiant complexion.

Methodology
Tropic surveyed 2,000 adults in the UK with One Poll, looking into the nation’s skincare routines, mistakes and spending habits.