Many NHS sources focus on hygiene, infection prevention, or general health behaviours, but they do not always make a direct link to skin health. Where possible, dermatology-specific references (such as the British Association of Dermatologists) have been included to highlight the connection between everyday habits, irritant exposure, and the skin barrier.
Together, these references show both what is already known — and what is still missing — from UK public health guidance. They offer credible, evidence-based reading to support the daily skin-friendly habits described in this flashcard set.
The biological link is well recognised: habits that reduce exposure to irritants, support hydration, improve sleep and encourage a balanced diet also lower inflammation and strengthen the barrier. Since barrier disruption is a common trigger for skin problems, these habits may indirectly support healthier skin. Some references come from specific groups or contexts (for example, people managing dermatitis or acne). While the advice is framed for those audiences, the principles apply more broadly: if a habit benefits one group, it is likely to support skin health for everyone.
Because everyone has skin.
10 Daily Habits for Healthier Skin:
1. Change Your Pillowcase Regularly
London Dermatology Centre — “Dermatologists generally recommend changing pillowcases at least weekly, more often for acne-prone or oily skin.”
https://www.london-dermatology-centre.co.uk/blog/pillowcase-and-skin-health/
2. Avoid Touching Your Face
NHS – Fit For Travel — “Potentially harmful germs are everywhere. If you get these germs on your hands and then touch your face, they can enter your body through your eyes, nose or mouth and could make you ill.”
https://www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk/advice/general-travel-health-advice/hand-hygieneBarnsley Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) – “Touching your skin or sitting with your hands over your cheeks or chin will spread germs from your fingers on to your face. Try not to touch your face at all, other than for putting on medication.”
This leaflet was produced by Barnsley CCG, now part of the South Yorkshire Integrated Care Board.
3. Clean Your Phone
Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust – IT Cleaning Guidance — Phones and devices are high-touch items; cleaning reduces contamination risk.
Guidance_for_cleaning_IT_equipment_and_desk_spaces_-_May_2020.pdf
4. Don’t Share Towels
NHS – Staph Infections — “Staph bacteria can spread through sharing things like towels.”
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/staphylococcal-infections/JustOneNorfolk (NHS) — “Don’t share towels.”
https://www.justonenorfolk.nhs.uk/childhood-illnesses/hygiene/Healthier Together (NHS – NE & NC) — “Use separate towels for each family member and wash after each use.”
https://nenc-healthiertogether.nhs.uk/professionals/safety-netting-and-parent-information-leaflets-pil/recurrent-skin-and-soft-tissue-infections
5. Cut Back on Sugar
Royal Berkshire NHS – Reducing Chronic Inflammation Leaflet (RA) — “Sugar and caffeine are thought to increase inflammation. A low-glycemic diet has been shown to help lower inflammation.”
reducing-chronic-inflammation_jan24.pdfBritish Heart Foundation – Anti-inflammatory Diet — Diets high in sugary drinks, sweets, and refined grains are linked with higher inflammation.
https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/nutrition/anti-inflammatory-diet
6. Clean Your Makeup Brushes
St George’s NHS Trust – Camouflage Creams Leaflet — “You may have an allergic reaction if the product or applicator is dirty. Always clean brushes/sponges and dry after use.”
https://www.stgeorges.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/PLA_ASC.pdf
7. Hydrate Wisely (Water + Moisturiser)
NHS – Water, drinks and nutrition — Advises 6–8 glasses daily for health and hydration.
https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/water-drinks-nutrition/British Association of Dermatologists – Emollient Use in Skin Conditions — Emollients strengthen the barrier and reduce water loss.
https://www.bad.org.uk/pils/emollient-use-in-skin-conditionsBritish Dietetic Association – Skin Health — Hydration and balanced nutrition are important for skin health.
https://www.bda.uk.com/resource/skin-health.html
8. Keep Showers Warm, Not Hot
Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS – Care for Your Skin — “Do use tepid water. Don’t use hot water as this will increase itch.”
https://www.gloshospitals.nhs.uk/your-visit/patient-information-leaflets/care-your-skin/
9. Be Cautious with Soap (SLS / Perfumed)
NHS – Contact Dermatitis — Harsh soaps and detergents are common triggers.
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/contact-dermatitis/
10. Sleep Helps Your Skin
Oxford Health NHS CAMHS — “A good sleep routine will help make your skin clearer, eyes brighter, and hair healthier.”
https://www.oxfordhealth.nhs.uk/camhs/self-care/sleep/why-sleep-matters/importance/
Disclaimer
These references are provided for educational purposes only. They link to external organisations (e.g. NHS, British Association of Dermatologists, Cancer Research UK) that offer further information on the topics covered in this flashcard set. The content is not intended to replace medical advice. If you have concerns about your skin or health, please consult your GP or a qualified healthcare professional.