We all know that working life can be challenging, whether it’s the long hours, the deadlines, the commute or the state of the staff kitchen. And while It’s well known that stress can impact our mental health, what we don’t tend to consider so much is that what you do for a living can also impact the state of your skin.
It’s not just stress levels: environmental factors – from the air-conditioning to the artificial light, the less-than-nutritious working lunches (hello, 4pm chocolate cravings) and all those endless hours staring at a computer screen - they can all affect your skin’s health, too.
So to find out whether your skin could be having a “career crisis,” here’s a run-down of the jobs that are best for skin, plus the ones which could be the most challenging.
Find out what could be stressing your skin below - or jump straight to tailored skincare routines for each profession.
Finding The Best Professions for Your Skin
Here’s how we worked it all out: we surveyed over 3,000 employees in 15 different industries about how often they experience 18 ‘skin-stressing’ factors at work, including working in front of a computer screen, wearing a mask, high stress levels and exposure to extreme temperatures.
Each profession was then assigned a ‘Skin Stress Score,’ out of 100. The higher the score, the greater the number of skin-stressing factors each profession was potentially vulnerable to…and the more your job might present challenges for your skin.
And the Most Skin-Friendly Industry Is… Sport And Leisure
Jobs in the Sport and Leisure Industry are best for skin health
Jobs that scored a Skin Stress Score of between 1 and 50 were deemed the best for skin - and with a score of just 34 out of 100, sport and leisure workers - for example, yoga instructors, sports coaches and swimming instructors - experienced the fewest skin stressing factors of any of the professions surveyed.
The research shows that those working in this industry rarely worked late, felt stressed or ate unhealthy food at work – all of which can have a negative impact on your skin’s appearance.
Top 7 Best Industries and Professions for Your Skin
Click an industry to go straight to a tailored skincare routine.
| Industry | Skin-Stress Score (Out of 100) | |
| 1 | Sport and Leisure | 34.2 |
| 2 | Education | 38.9 |
| 3 | Law | 41.9 |
| 4 | Health | 42.7 |
| 5 | Engineering and Manufacturing | 47 |
| 6 | Transportation and Logistics | 47.9 |
| 7 | Retail | 49.2 |
The Industries that can be the Most Skin-Challenging
At the other end of the scale, the worst scoring professions are in the science and pharmaceutical industries, scoring 74.36 - more than double the score of sport and leisure jobs.
Employees in this industry often work late or on night shifts, work in air-conditioned environments and are also often outside in hot temperatures in the summer, particularly those who work as geographers, environmental scientists, or geologists – all of which can have a negative impact on skin’s condition and health.
The 6 Most Complexion-Challenging Industries
Click a profession to go straight to a tailored skincare routine.
| Industry | Skin-Stress Score (Out of 100) | |
| 1 | Science and Pharmaceuticals | 74.4 |
| 2 | Construction | 70.5 |
| 3 | Energy | 68.8 |
| 4 | Hospitality and Tourism | 65.8 |
| 5 | Finance and Banking | 60.7 |
| 6 | General Business | 58.1 |
How to Career-Proof Your Skincare
The best ways to achieve glowing skin, wherever you work and whatever you do.
1. The Sport and Leisure Skincare Routine
Personal trainers, yoga or swimming instructors
34.2
Skin Stress Score
Top Skin-Stressing Factors:
In the summer, being out in the heat/sun
A long commute
Working inside without any natural light
What It Means for Your Skin
Time spent outside means more exposure to damaging UVA and UVB rays which can prematurely age the skin. Likewise, working outside in cold weather is likely to cause dryness which can make skin feel uncomfortable and tight.
What You Need
SPF is key to protecting skin from sun damage and Vitamin C can brighten skin tone and help to reduce the signs of premature ageing. A lovely hydrating essence is also great to have on standby throughout the day.
The BEAUTY PIE Sport and Leisure Skincare Kit
Get the Kit2. The Education Industry Skincare Routine
Teachers, Lecturers, Tutors
38.9
Skin Stress Score
Top Skin-Stressing Factors:
Tiredness from work
Not taking a lunch break
What It Means for Your Skin
Tiredness can affect your natural glow. Skipping lunch breaks can exacerbate this, as well as increasing stress levels - so your skin’s cell turnover is sluggish and you could notice everything from dryness to dullness to clogged pores.
What You Need
Starting your day by cleansing with a moisture-rich balm and upping your hydration levels with Hyaluronic Acid is a great way to make your skin look as refreshed as possible. An eye cream containing Retinol is a great way to help brighten tired eyes, too.
The BEAUTY PIE Education Professionals’ Skincare Kit
| Product | |
| 1 | Jeju Daily AM/PM Multi-Phase Purifying Cleansing Milk |
| 2 | Wonderscrub™ Bio-Dermabrasion Face Polish |
| 3 | Triple Hyaluronic Acid Lipopeptide Serum |
| 4 | Superdose™ C Vitamin C Oxygen-boosting Moisturizer |
3. The Legal Profession Skincare Routine
Lawyers, solicitors, judges
41.9
Skin Stress Score
Top Skin-Stressing Factors:
Long hours in front of a screen
Feeling tired from work
What It Means for Your Skin
Sitting in front of a screen for prolonged periods can affect the quality of your sleep. Stress and deadlines can also affect your skin - you might notice dryness, increased sensitivity and even a breakdown in collagen production, leading to premature signs of ageing.
What You Need
Adding a supercharged moisturiser to your routine is guaranteed to deliver a dewy finish that will hide all evidence of over-working. Glycolic pads are a great way to ensure dull, tired skin looks smooth and clear, too. As always, add SPF daily, too.
Use all of these products morning and night, except our Dr Glycolic Pads, which should be used 2-3 times a week.
The BEAUTY PIE Legal Profession Skincare Kit
| Product | |
| 1 | Jeju Daily AM/PM Multi-Phase Purifying Cleansing Milk |
| 2 | Wonderscrub™ Bio-Dermabrasion Face Polish |
| 3 | Triple Hyaluronic Acid Lipopeptide Serum |
| 4 | Superdose™ C Vitamin C Oxygen-boosting Moisturizer |
4. The Healthcare Industry Skincare Routine
Doctors, nurses, health visitors, mental health practitioners
42.7
Skin Stress Score
Top Skin-Stressing Factors:
Working long hours
Feeling tired from work
Skipping lunch breaks
What It Means for Your Skin
Overworking or working extended hours can naturally increase overall stress levels, which will impact the health of your skin. Feeling tired from work might also mean you skimp on your skincare routine, so it’s important to find products that are loaded with active ingredients, keeping your routine as efficient and effective as possible.
What You Need
Adding a gentle-but-effective face polish a couple of times a week will really help re-energise your skin, and skincare infused with ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin C will also ensure skin looks radiant, too. Don’t forget to add SPF.
The BEAUTY PIE Healthcare Professional Skincare Kit
| Product | |
| 1 | Jeju Daily AM/PM Multi-Phase Purifying Cleansing Milk |
| 2 | Wonderscrub™ Bio-Dermabrasion Face Polish |
| 3 | Triple Hyaluronic Acid Lipopeptide Serum |
| 4 | Superdose™ C Vitamin C Oxygen-boosting Moisturizer |
5. The Engineering and Manufacturing Industry Skincare Routine
Mechanical engineers, welders, automotive manufacturer
47.0
Skin Stress Score
Top Skin-Stressing Factors:
Working long hours
Wearing a mask
Working around aircon
What It Means for Your Skin
Air-conditioned environments can dry skin and cause irritation and dryness, and wearing a mask can increase oiliness that can lead to breakouts and blemishes. Working long hours and feeling sluggish on the job can reduce blood flow and potentially lead to a dull complexion.
What You Need
To ward off tired-looking skin, pair a glow-giving serum with a replenishing moisturising cream, for brighter, dewier skin. Just add SPF.
The BEAUTY PIE Engineer’s Skincare Kit
| Product | |
| 1 | Triple Hyaluronic Acid Elastic Lifting Eye Serum |
| 2 | Triple Hyaluronic Acid Lipopeptide Serum |
| 3 | Triple Hyaluronic Acid Deep Moisture Miracle Cream |
6. The Transportation and Logistics Industry Skincare Routine
Road traffic investigators, freight agents, supply chain managers
47.9
Skin Stress Score
Top Skin-Stressing Factors:
Working at night
Working inside with no natural light
Working long hours
What It Means for Your Skin
Working excessive hours can increase overall stress levels, causing the hormone release of cortisol that can cause clogged pores and breakouts. Working at night can worsen bags under eyes and make the area puffier and more swollen
What You Need
Best way to mask the effects of tiredness from night work? Skincare loaded with proven actives. A routine containing Vitamins A (Retinol), B (Niacinamide) and C will ensure skin stays looking fresh and glowy.
The BEAUTY PIE Transport Pro’s Skincare Kit
Get the Kit
7. The Retail Industry Skincare Routine
Store managers, merchandisers, beauty counter consultants, cashiers
49.2
Skin Stress Score
Top Skin-Stressing Factors:
Being inside with no natural light
Long hours spent sitting down
Working long hours
Eating unhealthy food
What It Means for Your Skin
Having limited access to natural light can lead to a lack of Vitamin D, which can cause uncomfortably dry or itchy skin. Working long hours without the support of a well-balanced diet can be detrimental to skin health, too.
What You Need
By infusing the skin with energy-boosting ingredients and treating your skin to a face polish once or twice a week, you’ll boost circulation and increase your skin’s natural glow. (Don’t forget to add SPF).
The BEAUTY PIE Retail Worker’s Skincare Kit
| Product | |
| 1 | Jeju Daily AM/PM Multi-Phase Purifying Cleansing Milk |
| 2 | Wonderscrub™ Bio-Dermabrasion Face Polish |
| 3 | Triple Hyaluronic Acid Lipopeptide Serum |
| 4 | Superdose™ C Vitamin C Oxygen-boosting Moisturizer |
8. The General Business Professions Skincare Routine
Marketing, PR, advertising, call centres, office workers
58.1
Skin Stress Score
Top Skin-Stressing Factors:
Working long hours in front of a screen
Often on the phone
Working late
Wearing a mask
What It Means for Your Skin
Long hours sitting down in front of a screen can lead to poor circulation which can decrease the normal strength, elasticity, and flexibility of the skin. It can also have a knock-on effect on sleeping patterns, especially when paired with working late, which can lead to increased stress.
What You Need
To beat a lack of sleep, use resurfacing Glycolic pads to ensure dead skin cells are kept at bay, allowing maximum moisture to penetrate your skin. Layer intensely moisturising serum drops followed by moisturiser to replenish skin with double-duty hydration (just add SPF).
Use all of these products morning and night, except our Dr Glycolic Pads, which should be used 2-3 times a week.
The BEAUTY PIE General Business Skincare Kit
| Product | |
| 1 | Super Healthy Skin™ Hot Oil Double Cleansing Balm |
| 2 | Dr Glycolic™ Multi-Acid (6.5%) Micropeeling Pads |
| 3 | Superdrops™ High Intensity Hydration |
| 4 | Jeju Daily AM/PM Moisture Superinfusion™ |
9. The Finance and Banking Industries Skincare Routine
Investment and corporate banking, consumer banking, fund management
60.7
Skin Stress Score
Top Skin-Stressing Factors:
Often working late
Working long hours in front of a screen
Long periods sitting down
What It Means for Your Skin
Excessive time spent in front of a screen can affect the quality of your sleep, leading to fine lines and dark circles, while sitting down for a large part of the day can result in poor circulation which can decrease the normal strength and elasticity of the skin.
What You Need
A soothing cleanser and high-intensity hydrating ingredients will ensure skin is as soft, smooth and soothed as possible. Just add daily SPF.
Use all of these products morning and night, except our Dr Glycolic Pads, which should be used 2-3 times a week.
The BEAUTY PIE Finance and Banking Skincare Kit
| Product | |
| 1 | Super Healthy Skin™ Hot Oil Double Cleansing Balm |
| 2 | Dr Glycolic™ Multi-Acid (6.5%) Micropeeling Pads |
| 3 | Superdrops™ High Intensity Hydration |
| 4 | Jeju Daily AM/PM Moisture Superinfusion™ |
10. The Hospitality and Tourism Industry Skincare Routine
Chefs, waiters, hotel managers, tour guides, sommeliers
65.8
Skin Stress Score
Top Skin-Stressing Factors:
Feeling stressed every day
Working late
Long time spent commuting
Eating unhealthy food
What It Means for Your Skin
Eating unhealthy food on the job can cause breakouts in the skin and increased redness and fine lines. This, especially when paired with stress, a long commute and working late, can result in a lack of essential skin-nourishing vitamins.
What You Need
Boosting your skincare with super-moisturising ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid will help to nourish and calm skin, helping to keep redness and fine lines at bay. (Don’t forget to add SPF!)
The BEAUTY PIE Hospitality and Tourism Skincare Kit
| Product | |
| 1 | Triple Hyaluronic Acid Elastic Lifting Eye Serum |
| 2 | Triple Hyaluronic Acid Lipopeptide Serum |
| 3 | Triple Hyaluronic Acid Deep Moisture Miracle Cream |
11. The Energy Industry Skincare Routine
Engineers, scientists, field workers
68.8
Skin Stress Score
Top Skin-Stressing Factors:
Being outside in extreme temperatures in winter and summer
Feeling stressed every day
Long hours on the phone
Long hours commuting
What It Means for Your Skin
If your skin is regularly in contact with a phone, you are more likely to spread bacteria onto the skin’s surface, causing irritation and potential breakouts. The time spent commuting can also aggravate the skin, as the increased exposure to pollution causes ‘oxidative stress’ to skin cells which can weaken the skin barrier and trigger inflammation.
What You Need
Antioxidants are a great addition to skincare products in order to keep skin protected. Niacinamide has blemish-fighting properties, and to counter the effects of pollution, add a free-radical fighting Vitamin C to your routine.
The BEAUTY PIE Energy Industry Skincare Kit
Get the Kit12. The Construction Industry Skincare Routine
Quantity surveyors, roofers, electricians and builders
70.5
Skin Stress Score
Top Skin-Stressing Factors:
Being outside in extreme temperatures in summer and winter
Wearing a mask
Being inside with no natural light
What It Means for Your Skin
For quantity surveyors, roofers, brick masons and the many other professions within construction are likely to experience itchiness and irritation as a result of their exposure to extreme weathers. Wearing masks can also lead to breakouts and acne.
What You Need
A hard-working daily cleanser and an ultimate, all-round anti-ageing moisturiser are a perfect pairing for simple but effective skincare. Just add daily SPF. This kit contains a beautifully deluxe body moisturiser, too, to restore hard working bodies after a long day.
The BEAUTY PIE Construction Workers Skincare Kit
| Product | |
| 1 | Japanfusion™ Pure Transforming Cleanser |
| 2 | Super Healthy Skin™ Ultimate Anti-Aging Cream |
| 3 | Super Healthy Skin™ Deluxe Moisture Body Crème |
13. The Science and Pharmaceuticals Industry Skincare Routine
Biomedical scientists and pharmacists, food technologists and neuroscientists
74.4
Skin Stress Score
Top Skin-Stressing Factors:
Often working late
Working at night
Working around aircon
Being outside in extreme temperatures in summer and winter
What It Means for Your Skin
Working around air-conditioning can reduce the moisture in indoor environments leaving skin feeling dry, irritated and itchy. Working late or at night can lead to sleep deprivation which can worsen dark circles under the eyes and make the area puffy and swollen. Working outside in the heat can result in overexposure to the sun leading to premature skin ageing.
What You Need
Dry skin will benefit from hydrating ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid. Focus on dark circles by using a hard-working eye cream, too. Just add SPF.
The BEAUTY PIE Science and Pharmaceuticals Skincare Kit
| Product | |
| 1 | Triple Hyaluronic Acid Elastic Lifting Eye Serum |
| 2 | Triple Hyaluronic Acid Lipopeptide Serum |
| 3 | Triple Hyaluronic Acid Deep Moisture Miracle Cream |
If this has got you thinking about how you can give your skin the TLC it deserves, check out the full BEAUTY PIE skincare range.
Footnotes
Methodology: The research reveals which professions (from a total of 13 industries) are best and worst for your skin by quantifying which experience 18 'skin-stressing' factors the most, for example working late, stress and working in front of a computer screen for hours each day.
To rank the professions, a 'skin stress index score' was created - the professions were compared against each other for each of the skin-stressing factors and were then allocated a score (from 1-13, 1 being the best and 13 being the worst). The scores for each profession were totalled (a total of 234 points was on offer) to create an overall skin stress score, and this was then converted to an index score out of 100. A high score is bad and means that working in that profession could be bad for your skin health. A low score is good and means that profession doesn't expose skin to as many skin stressing factors.
Survey, executed by Censuswide – 3,000 UK respondents aged 16 and above
All data can be accessed here.
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