Happy Relationships, Happy Skin
Note on references
Many NHS sources focus on relationships and emotional wellbeing in relation to mental health but do not always make a direct link to skin. Where available, I’ve included dermatology-specific references that highlight the connection between relationships, daily habits, and skin. This helps show both what is already known and what is still missing from UK public health guidance.
The biological link is well recognised: habits that reduce stress and support positive mood also lower cortisol and inflammation in the body. Since inflammation directly affects the skin barrier, these habits may indirectly support healthier skin. Some references come from specific groups or contexts (for example, people living with self-image issues linked to skin conditions). 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. Happy Relationships, Happy Skin.
Daily Habits for Healthier Skin:
1. Stay Connected
NHS — “5 Steps to Mental Wellbeing” highlights connecting with others as a key way to improve mental health and resilience.
https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/self-help/guides-tools-and-activities/five-steps-to-mental-wellbeing/
NHS Inform Scotland — Social connections for mental wellbeing. Explains how social contact supports mental wellbeing.
https://www.nhsinform.scot/healthy-living/mental-wellbeing/social-connections-for-mental-wellbeing
Holt-Lunstad J, et al. (2023). A healthy lifestyle is a social lifestyle: the vital link between social connection and health outcomes. Peer-reviewed study showing social connection as a determinant of health.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/joim.13773
2. Talk It Out
Guy’s & St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust — “Communication and relationships.” Explains how open communication supports intimacy and managing chronic skin conditions.
https://www.guysandstthomas.nhs.uk/health-information/hidradenitis-suppurativa/communication-and-relationships
Mental Health Foundation — “Healthy relationships: top tips.” UK charity guidance on building and maintaining healthy relationships, including open communication.
https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/our-work/public-engagement/healthy-relationships/top-tips-building-and-maintaining-healthy-relationships
3. Share Appreciation
NHS Fife CAMHS — “Why is gratitude important?” NHS guidance linking gratitude with flourishing, relationships, and physical health.
https://www.nhsfife.org/services/all-services/child-and-adolescent-mental-health-service-camhs/things-to-try/gratitude/
Best For You — How gratitude is good for mental health. NHS-backed resource showing gratitude improves mood and reduces anxiety and depression.
https://www.bestforyou.org.uk/advice/gratitude/
The Guardian — Dr Swetha Rai (British Association of Dermatologists), quoted: “Being grateful and documenting these things… can definitely add to your happiness and thereby add radiance to your skin.”
https://www.theguardian.com/fashion/shortcuts/2020/feb/17/deserving-pore-skin-gratitude-dewy-complexion
Note: The Guardian may display a support appeal before the article — access is still free.
4. Laugh Together
Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust — “Top tips for reducing stress and improving mental health.”
“Having fun and laughing is really important. Studies have shown wonderful health and stress relief benefits from laughter and even the anticipation of laughter.”
https://www.oxfordhealth.nhs.uk/children-and-young-people/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2017/06/22-Top-tips-for-reducing-stress-and-improving-mental-health.pdf
British Heart Foundation — “How joy affects health.” Shows laughter therapy improves circulation and reduces inflammation.
https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/wellbeing/how-joy-affects-health
University College London — “Uncovering the neurobiology of laughter.” Research on endorphins, stress relief, and social bonding.
https://www.ucl.ac.uk/impact/case-studies/2022/apr/uncovering-neurobiology-laughter
5. Protect Your Energy
NHS (Every Mind Matters) — “Stress” explains how stress affects behaviour and health, including relationship issues and physical symptoms such as skin rashes and hives.
https://www.nhs.uk/every-mind-matters/mental-health-issues/stress/#signs
Hammersmith, Fulham, Ealing & Hounslow NHS — “How to build better boundaries to protect mental health.” Guidance on how boundaries support wellbeing, safety, and self-care.
https://www.hfehmind.org.uk/news/ways-to-build-better-boundaries/
6. Encourage Self-Care
NHS — “Self-care for mental health.” Encourages routines that support resilience and wellbeing.
https://www.nhs.uk/every-mind-matters/mental-wellbeing-tips/top-tips-to-improve-your-mental-wellbeing/
Healthtalk.org — “Psoriasis and Confidence / Self-Esteem.” UK patient stories on how skin conditions affect confidence and self-image.
https://healthtalk.org/experiences/psoriasis/the-impact-psoriasis-confidence-and-self-esteem/
Further Reading
Skin Protection Beyond Sunscreen (Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service) — Practical advice on skin protection, citing NHS sources and other UK health organisations.
https://www.cumbriafire.gov.uk/sites/default/files/2025-06/Skin%20Protection%20Beyond%20Sunscreen.pdf
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.