British Skin Foundation reveals most skin-safe age range

People aged between 31 and 40 are the most careful when it comes to looking after the health of their skin, according to a survey from the British Skin Foundation.

The survey asked 104 dermatological nurse questions about topics including skin cancer, sun safety and the psychological effects skin disease can have on patients.

The survey highlighted some interesting points relating to age – while just over a quarter said they think those aged 31-40 respond best to advice on checking their skin and keeping it protected from the sun, four in five said elderly people were more likely to ignore skin problems than younger generations.

Commenting on findings, Sandra Lawton OBE, dermatology nurse consultant at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, said: “This survey reflects the burden of skin disease that nurses see and highlights the important role we have in the care of patients presenting a skin problem.

“As the survey shows, skin conditions affect patients of all ages so caring for them requires competent and experience dermatology nurses. As we move forward we need to ensure that we invest in nursing to guarantee nurses have the appropriate skills to support our patients and their families.”