Happy Work, Happy Skin.
Clear, evidence-based skincare guidance for real life and real skin.
Understanding the Link Between Work Habits and Skin Health
The modern workplace can take a toll on your skin. Long hours, high stress, artificial lighting, and constant screen exposure can lead to dehydration, inflammation, and premature ageing. Whether you’re working from home or in an office, small changes to your daily routine can help protect your skin and support its long-term health.
How This Can Present on Skin
Screen Time: Blue light exposure is thought to contribute to pigmentation, oxidative stress, and accelerated ageing.
Stress: High cortisol levels from chronic work stress can worsen breakouts, inflammation, or flare-ups.
Air Conditioning/Heating: Indoor climate control can dry out your skin and weaken the barrier.
Unhealthy Habits: Skipping hydration, poor nutrition, and neglecting SPF can accelerate skin imbalances and visible ageing.
Tips for Skin-Friendly Work Habits
Protect Against Blue Light
Use a broad-spectrum SPF or moisturiser that includes blue light defence (look for iron oxides or antioxidant-rich formulas).
✅ Research indicates that blue light exposure from screens may contribute to skin ageing and pigmentation.
Manage Stress at Work
Incorporate small mindfulness practices, stretch breaks, or breathing exercises to lower cortisol and protect your skin.
✅ Backed by: The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) emphasises the importance of stress management in the workplace to maintain overall health.
Hydrate from the Inside Out
Keep a water bottle at your desk and sip regularly throughout the day. Staying well-hydrated supports your body’s natural functions - including those that keep your skin looking and feeling its best.
✅ Backed by: NHS – Dehydration – highlights the importance of fluid intake for overall health, which can help maintain skin hydration too.
Replenish with Moisture
Use a barrier-friendly moisturiser or mist during the day, especially in heated or air-conditioned environments.
✅ Backed by: The British Association of Dermatologists (BAD) recommends regular moisturising to combat the drying effects of indoor climates on the skin.
Take Screen Breaks
Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This simple habit can ease eye strain from screen use and reduce overall screen fatigue, which may indirectly support stress levels and skin health.
🔍 Recommended by multiple eye care professionals and supported by UK research, including Aston University.
Snack Smart
Fuel your skin with nutrients. Keep healthy snacks like nuts, berries, and veggies nearby, instead of processed options.
✅ Backed by: The British Nutrition Foundation advocates for balanced diets rich in vitamins and minerals to support skin integrity and overall health.
Keep Your Workstation Clean
Wipe down your keyboard, phone, and desk regularly to reduce bacteria transfer to your face.
🔍 Recommended by: PHS - emphasises maintaining clean work environments to prevent the spread of bacteria and reduce health risks.
Working Outdoors?
UV rays can damage your skin even on cloudy days. If you're outside for long periods, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen all year round—not just in summer.
✅ Backed by:
The Met Office and HSE highlight the risks of UV exposure in all seasons, even when it's overcast.
The British Safety Council (2024) reports that occupational sun exposure causes 1,700 cases of work-related skin cancer each year in the UK.
Need Extra Support?
If work-related issues are affecting your well-being, speak with your employer or HR about changes that could improve your environment. A workplace coach or mentor may help with balance and performance. A qualified skin therapist, such as a corneotherapist - trained in skin barrier care, can offer tailored advice to support your skin barrier and long-term resilience.
Disclaimer
Whilst every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the information in this leaflet is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional advice.
Version: [March / 2025]
© 2025 Jacqui de Jager | The Skin Well™ & The Happy Skin Clinic®
All rights reserved. This leaflet is for personal use and education only. It may not be reproduced, distributed, or adapted without written permission.
