- New climate data has analysed every UK region to determine where is healthiest for your skin.
- The data shows that living in Scotland and the North East is better for your skin, due to lower pollution and UV levels.
- Research also reveals that residents of southern coastal cities face the highest skin health risks from wind, humidity, and sun exposure.
New climate data reveals that living in Scotland and the North East benefits skin health, while southern coastal cities face higher risks from wind, humidity, and sun exposure.
The research, conducted by Fresha, assessed key environmental factors impacting skin health across 100 UK areas, including air pollution, humidity, temperature, wind speed, and precipitation. It then calculated scores for each area to pinpoint those most likely to contribute to poorer skin health., including air pollution, humidity, temperature, wind speed, and precipitation. It then calculated scores for each area to pinpoint those most likely to contribute to poorer skin health.
UK Areas Likely Harming Your Skin
Portsmouth‘s coastal charm comes with a downside, ranking as the worst area for skin health with a score of 68.40. This is due to a combination of factors, including an average annual wind speed of 13mph, humidity at 82%, and particulate matter levels of 13.45μg/m³. The city also faces the highest average temperature in the study at 12.28°C, which can lead to skin dehydration, heightened sun exposure risks, and potential damage from environmental stressors.
UK Areas Most Likely to Cause Skin Issues
| Rank | UK Area | Score (/100) |
| 1 | Portsmouth | 68.40 |
| 2 | Plymouth | 65.92 |
| 3 | Poole | 65.26 |
| 4 | Swansea | 63.49 |
| 5 | Eastbourne | 62.94 |
| 6 | Hastings | 61.25 |
| 7 | Hove | 60.67 |
| 8 | Blackburn | 60.66 |
| 9 | Cardiff | 58.15 |
| 10 | Bolton | 56.89 |
Heading along the coast to Plymouth, this area ranks second with a score of 65.92. Plymouth experiences the third-highest levels of precipitation in the UK, with an average of 0.19mm of rainfall. This high moisture content can be detrimental to the skin, as prolonged exposure may weaken the skin’s natural barrier, leading to potential issues such as breakouts, irritation, and diminished elasticity.
Poole, ranking closely in third with a score of 65.26, has an average annual wind speed of 11mph. The constant wind exposure here can deplete the skin’s natural moisture, resulting in dryness and increased sensitivity. Over time, this relentless wind can damage the skin barrier, leaving it more vulnerable to redness, chapping, and signs of premature ageing.
The final rankings for the cities with the worst conditions for skin reveal Swansea in fourth place with a score of 63.49, followed by Eastbourne in fifth at 62.94, Hastings in sixth with a score of 61.25, and Hove in seventh at 60.67. Blackburn ranks eighth with a score of 60.66, Cardiff comes in ninth with 58.15, and Bolton rounds out the top ten with a score of 56.89.
UK Areas Healthiest for Your Skin
Dundee tops the list as the best location for skin health. The city shows an average wind speed of 7mph and receives 13mm of precipitation, despite having a high humidity level of 83%, which contributes to a score of 21.98. Furthermore, Dundee boasts the lowest pollution levels among the cities analysed, with a reading of just 8.68μg/m³. Lower pollution means fewer harmful particles, such as dirt, soot, and chemicals, in the air, reducing the risk of clogged pores, irritation, and premature ageing.
UK Areas Least Likely to Cause Skin Issues
| Rank | UK Area | Score (/100) |
| 1 | Dundee | 21.98 |
| 2 | Newcastle upon Tyne | 23.89 |
| 3 | Gateshead | 24.58 |
| 4 | Edinburgh | 26.19 |
| 5 | Darlington | 26.65 |
| 6 | Aberdeen | 26.85 |
| 7 | Stockton-on-Tees | 27.35 |
| 8 | Telford | 30.07 |
| 9 | Sunderland | 30.08 |
| 10 | Middlesbrough | 30.60 |
Newcastle upon Tyne ranks second for optimal skin conditions with a score of 23.89. The city has an average humidity level of 81%, which is below the national average. This balanced level of humidity allows the skin to retain essential moisture, keeping it hydrated without causing excess moisture buildup that could lead to discomfort or irritation.
Crossing the Tyne River to Gateshead, the study reveals that the area supports healthy skin with a score of 24.58. The city’s cooler average temperature, at 9.13°C—more than three degrees lower than Portsmouth—helps prevent issues like dehydration and premature ageing, which are often exacerbated by warmer climates.
The final rankings for the best conditions for skin place Edinburgh in fourth with a score of 26.19, followed by Darlington in fifth at 26.65, Aberdeen in sixth with a score of 26.85, and Stockton-on-Tees in seventh at 27.35. Telford ranks eighth with a score of 30.07, Sunderland is ninth with a score of 30.08, and Middlesbrough rounds out the top ten with a score of 30.60.
A spokesperson from beauty and wellness marketplace Fresha warns, “Southern cities, with their colder temperatures, humidity, and strong winds, could be the cause of your irritation, dehydration, and premature ageing. These harsh conditions strip moisture from your skin, leading to long-term damage. The risks are even greater in winter when windier weather further dries out and irritates the skin. Taking preventative steps now will significantly benefit your skin in the new year.”
To protect your skin this winter, the expert urges the public to:
- Use a rich moisturiser and hydrating cleanser to lock in moisture.
- Apply SPF daily, as UV rays can still affect your skin in colder months.
- Invest in a humidifier to prevent dryness.
- Boost Omega-3s with fatty fish, walnuts, and flaxseed to support your skin’s barrier.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, nourishing your skin from within.
