A new study by Surcare of 2,000 Brits finds one in three try DIY skincare – with nearly one in five suffering a reaction in the aftermath. Now, Katie Piper and the brand are urging Brits to simplify their methods instead of trying viral DIY hacks they might see on socials.

The research was commissioned by laundry detergent brand Surcare, which have appointed Katie Piper OBE as their brand and wellness consultant, to encourage people to not overlook the impact clothes can have when touching your skin. 

Speaking on the Main Stage at Ideal Home Show 2026, Katie Piper discussed her journey with confidence, mental health, resilience and body image - alongside her lived experience of sensitive skin:

On sensitive skin, scars and confidence:
“When my life changed forever after my accident, I realised so many people are struggling with challenges of their own. When we think about scars, we often think about the visible ones - but so many people carry scars you can’t see. Hearing the  stories of the UK public helped me with my confidence and feeling okay to be myself.”

“When I was first burnt 18 years ago, I felt like the only person - I didn’t see anyone like me in adverts. But when you start connecting with people, you realise how many are experiencing similar skin issues.”

On everyday triggers and skincare beyond products:
“Anyone with a skin condition knows how debilitating it can be when you can’t work out the cause. That’s why I changed small things - like using sensitive laundry liquid and fragrance‑free hair and body products.”

Katie attended the show in her role as Ambassador for Surcare, which she uses at home for herself and her family, including her daughter who struggles with eczema:

“Skincare starts with laundry care for me, because our clothes are on our skin all day. It’s something people often completely overlook.”

On confidence and resilience:
“My advice for anyone struggling with confidence is to ask: where does my confidence come from? People often judge their self‑worth based on what they think others think of them. For me, confidence is resilience - being able to rebuild and reinvent.”

“My confidence used to rely on male validation. Now it’s unshakeable. Authenticity can feel scary, but once you stop watering yourself down, people do respond - you just need that self‑belief.”

“It’s also okay not to feel good all the time. All emotions are valid. I haven’t always been positive – at times I’ve been angry, anxious and depressed. Resilience is about picking yourself back up.”

Katie Piper’s self‑care advice:
“When things feel overwhelming, go back to basics. Small changes matter - setting boundaries, or even switching your laundry detergent if your body feels inflamed.”

“Affirmation: Confidence isn’t ‘will they like me’ - confidence is ‘I’ll be fine if they don’t’.”