Katie Piper Advocates for 'True Care' in Skincare as Brits Explore DIY Techniques
Model and presenter Katie Piper has unveiled a straightforward hack she depends on for maintaining radiant skin, coinciding with new research that uncovers a variety of eccentric DIY skincare methods tried by UK adults. The study, commissioned by laundry detergent brand Surcare, highlights how far individuals are willing to go in pursuit of healthier-looking skin, with many turning to natural ingredients found in everyday kitchen cupboards.
Unusual Skincare Tricks Embraced by Brits
According to the research involving 2,000 adults, Brits have admitted to using an array of unconventional skincare tricks. These include placing teabags on puffy eyes, applying egg yolk to treat rough skin, and using baking soda as an exfoliant. Other popular DIY treatments feature avocado as a face scrub, strawberry-based hand treatments, and green tea as a skin rinse. Additionally, methods such as lemon juice for brightening skin, oatmeal baths, and yoghurt facemasks are commonly employed.
Approximately 15% of respondents reported using these DIY techniques at least once a week, while 7% confessed they are willing to try anything that might enhance their appearance. The study reveals that three in ten individuals turn to DIY remedies because they contain natural ingredients, 19% do so to avoid harsh chemicals, and 21% find them more affordable than commercial alternatives.
The Impact of Clothing on Skin Health
Katie Piper, who has partnered with Surcare as their brand and wellness consultant, emphasized the often-overlooked role of clothing in 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." She explained that traces of detergent can remain in fabric fibres, which stay in close contact with skin for much of the day, making fabric act as a second skin.
Piper added, "Small, thoughtful choices - like using dermatologically approved laundry products - can help support your skin without adding complexity or risk." The research supports this, showing that 30% of respondents have changed their laundry detergent to boost skin health, yet 52% do not consider detergent as part of their skincare regime to prevent irritation.
Skincare Spending and Common Concerns
The study found that the typical respondent spends £146 annually on skincare items, with Millennials leading at £205 per year, compared to just £80 for Baby Boomers. Primarily, skincare products are used to ward off skin problems (49%), while 33% use them for self-care and wellness, and nearly 4% follow influencers and celebrities.
Overall, 56% of participants have suffered from a skin complaint or condition, such as eczema, dermatitis, acne, or sensitive skin. The most popular approaches to address these concerns include applying creams or serums (48%), increasing water intake (45%), and obtaining prescription medication from a GP (36%). Other methods involve supplements (26%), dietary changes (24%), and switching laundry detergent (30%).
Katie Piper's Philosophy on Skincare
Katie Piper reflected on the trend of experimenting with beauty hacks, saying, "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 advocates for preventative care, noting that it is not always about adding more products but removing irritation.
She concluded, "Choosing laundry formulations that are kind to skin, without fragrances, dyes, or enzymes, is just as important as the skincare you apply directly." The research also indicated that participants typically spend nearly 16 hours daily in contact with fabrics, underscoring the importance of fabric care in skin health.
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



