Published on
August 12, 2025
As the summer season shines across Britain and millions dream of beach escapes, a new UK Vein Clinic survey reveals a side to British life that, unfortunately, is making the headlines more and more: the deep, complex shame so many people feel when it’s time to put on shorts or a swimsuit. For a growing number, insecurities aren’t just fleeting worries – they’re a silent force dictating wardrobe choices, intimacy, and even the willingness to seek medical care. Despite the growing message of body positivity in society, the numbers tell a different story: almost half of UK adults don’t feel confident in their bodies, and for many, the costs run far deeper than skin.
Far from being a trivial issue, body confidence – or the lack of it – weaves its way through relationships, mental health, and even decisions as critical as seeing a doctor.
The survey, which canvassed 2,000 UK adults from all walks of life, paints a startling picture. A staggering 42% say their stomach is the body part that makes them most self-conscious, far outpacing other sources of anxiety like the face (13%), legs (9%), chest (8%), and arms (6%). Only about one in eight (13%) can confidently declare there isn’t a single body part that gives them pause.
Women and those in midlife (45-54) are most likely to feel insecure about their stomach, but this issue transcends age and gender. Among young adults (16-24), body anxiety begins alarmingly early – just 5% say they don’t feel self-conscious about any body part, signalling intense social and media pressures on the youngest generations.
Helena Lewis-Smith, Body Image Research Psychologist, with over 10 years’ experience in body image research, says:
“People of all ages are held to narrow appearance ideals, like having a flat stomach and smooth, youthful skin. From a young age, we’re flooded with messages from TV, films, and even children’s toys about how we should look. These pressures continue with unrealistic images from the fashion and beauty industries, where airbrushed photos, beauty filters, and constantly changing trends set standards that are often impossible to meet. Social media only adds to this, with carefully curated images shaping what we see as the “perfect” look. These persistent messages create ongoing pressure that affects how people feel about their bodies throughout their lives.”
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Taking a closer look at the survey data, it suggests that body confidence differs across the UK. The story of British body confidence isn’t the same in every city – some places emerge as hotspots of greater self-assurance, while others lag behind, highlighting both areas that lean more confident, and pockets where insecurities run deeper.
London leads the nation, with 62% of respondents reporting they feel confident about their appearance. The city’s thriving culture of self-expression and exposure to greater diversity may play a part in creating an environment where people are more likely to embrace their bodies. This contrasts sharply with Glasgow at the bottom of the confidence league, where just 32% of residents feel comfortable in their own skin. Such regional contrasts are also mirrored across major cities: Manchester (53%), Nottingham (53%) and Leeds (60%) all feature prominently in the top ranks.
The survey reveals that feeling insecure is the most common emotion among those who experience self-consciousness about their body, affecting nearly 40% of those individuals. Embarrassment is close behind, troubling over a third of respondents. About 30% admit to avoiding situations or hiding the body part they dislike, while nearly a quarter experience anxiety or discomfort as a result. These overlapping emotions fuel a cycle of self-doubt and avoidance, impacting mental health, relationships, and overall quality of life.
Helena Lewis-Smith, Body Image Research Psychologist, highlights the widespread impact of these concerns:
“Body image concerns can have a significant impact on mental health, contributing to anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. They also affect everyday behaviours, such as avoiding certain clothes or withdrawing from social situations. Worryingly, low body confidence can even limit a person’s sense of autonomy, with young people holding back from participating in class, and adults avoiding seeking medical help.”
Body shame often centres on particular features of appearance. According to the survey respondents, the features most likely to provoke self-consciousness are size (42%), muscle tone (30%), and shape or contour (25%). Age plays a role, as well: wrinkles and sagging (20%) become more prominent issues for those over 55. Women are far more likely to worry about cellulite and stretch marks (17%) vs. just 9% of men, while visible veins—often misunderstood as "just cosmetic"—can present both appearance concerns and persistent physical symptoms for those affected.
Leg concerns emerge as a powerful and persistent issue for many Brits, especially during warmer months when legs are more likely to be on display. According to the survey, 22% of respondents feel most uncomfortable showing their legs at the beach or swimming pool – places traditionally associated with relaxation and confidence—while over 20% say they rarely or never feel comfortable revealing their legs in any situation. Social events and holidays also rank highly as moments of leg-related discomfort, with 19% and 18% respectively citing these as challenging occasions.
These feelings are not confined to one group; women, older adults, and those affected by visible vein conditions such as varicose veins are particularly impacted. The data underscores that leg insecurities are more than a surface concern –they influence clothing choices, social participation, and even wellbeing, preventing many from fully enjoying summer activities and everyday life.
Professor Stephen Black, Chief Surgical Officer at UK Vein Clinic says:
“Leg insecurities are a common concern we encounter at UK Vein Clinic, especially as warmer weather encourages more people to bare their legs. Many hesitate to seek help for visible veins or discomfort due to embarrassment, but it’s important to understand that treating these issues isn’t just about appearance – it’s about improving circulation, reducing pain, and preventing complications. Modern varicose vein treatment is minimally invasive and highly effective, allowing patients to regain confidence and reclaim their lifestyle without shame. We always encourage people to prioritise their health and not delay seeking care because of how they feel.”
Moments that should be joyful – beach days, holidays, nights out, or family gatherings – are often anxiety triggers. The survey reveals that 22% feel most uncomfortable at the beach or pool, 18% most on holiday, and 11% even on public transport. For one in five, there’s never a comfortable context to show their legs. These feelings rob many of summer’s simple pleasures and the freedom to live spontaneously.
Among the most striking findings from the UK Vein Clinic survey is the profound and persistent gender gap in body confidence across Britain. This disparity not only dominates the top line results, but it also speaks to deep-rooted societal differences in how men and women experience – and are affected by – body image concerns.
Women are more likely to experience negative emotions such as embarrassment and shame in relation to their body, and almost 30% more likely than men to avoid showing their most self-conscious body part in public, affecting everything from social activities to mental health.
The survey findings mirror broader research across the UK, showing that women consistently report worse body image, greater dissatisfaction with specific body parts, and higher rates of anxiety or shame related to appearance.
While women are disproportionately affected by body image challenges, the data show that a significant number of men are struggling as well. One in ten British men (12%) have cancelled or declined a date because they didn’t feel confident in their body, and 15% have felt too uncomfortable to undress in front of a partner. Men also report notable rates of avoiding intimacy, with 14% admitting to doing so due to body insecurities, and nearly 17% have struggled to enjoy intimacy because of these concerns. These findings highlight that, although the impact is often greater for women, body image worries cross gender lines and can affect men’s confidence, relationships, and quality of life in important ways.
Helena Lewis-Smith, Body Image Research Psychologist, comments on the evolving landscape of body image pressures:
“Society has long placed women’s bodies under intense scrutiny, particularly as they age, but it’s important to recognise that body image concerns increasingly affect men too. Men are not immune to appearance-related pressures, and these concerns often become more pronounced with age due to natural changes like muscle loss, fat accumulating around the stomach, and hair loss. While body image issues have traditionally been viewed as a ‘women’s issue,’ the reality is they affect people of all genders.”
While the impact of body confidence often plays out in public, its most profound effects are sometimes in private. The survey found that one in five adults have struggled to enjoy intimacy because of how they feel about their body, and nearly as many admit to feeling too uncomfortable to undress in front of a partner. For younger respondents, these figures are even higher, with 28% of 16–24-year-olds avoiding intimacy altogether due to low body confidence. Women are more likely than men to avoid intimacy or feel uneasy about undressing, but men are not immune to these struggles. These insecurities create a cycle where body image influences how people approach dating, relationships, and self-worth – emphasising that better body confidence is not just about image, but also about emotional connection and relationship fulfilment.
Perhaps most alarming is the way body confidence issues bleed into health decisions. Almost a third of survey participants admitted they have delayed or avoided seeking help for a health issue because of embarrassment about showing their body to a professional. 30% specifically cited feeling "too self-conscious" to seek care. Among young adults (16-24), almost half (40%) say they have held off on medical help for these reasons.
Women, in particular, are almost 50% more likely than men to express embarrassment about revealing body areas during medical appointments - a trend that can lead to silent suffering and serious long-term health risks. Importantly, the survey also shows that 60% of Brits say they would be more likely to seek medical care for a health issue if it affected their appearance, demonstrating just how much image impacts health-seeking behaviour.
Professor Stephen Black, Chief Surgical Officer at UK Vein Clinic says:
"As specialists, we see first hand how feelings of shame stop people from seeking even the most routine care. It’s deeply concerning that over a third of adults, especially young people and women, are putting off vital appointments because they feel too self-conscious to show their bodies. No one should have to choose between embarrassment and their health. Timely assessment is crucial – not just to address appearance concerns, but to catch and treat emerging health problems before they become more serious. We urge everyone to prioritise their wellbeing and never let body worries stand in the way of medical care."
Body-related anxiety can be a heavy burden, particularly in a society where discussions around confidence often rely on overly simplified narratives of "self-love". The UK Vein Clinic is partnering with body image research psychologist, Dr Helena Lewis-Smith, to drive a new narrative: this isn’t about vanity – it’s about mental wellbeing. Shame and silence can hold people back from taking steps toward change — whether that means reaching out for support or beginning the work themselves.
Dr Helena Lewis-Smith offers expert advice for anyone struggling with low body confidence, along with practical tips to help build a more positive body image:
“Body image concerns extend beyond appearance, affecting people’s confidence, daily behaviours, and even willingness to seek help. These feelings are shaped by a range of different factors—from early life experiences to sociocultural pressures. While unfortunately common, recognising that these concerns are valid and shared can be an important step toward addressing them.
Struggles with body image should never be dismissed as vanity or brushed off lightly. Positive body image is crucial for mental health, and we should encourage open conversations about body image while challenging societal pressures around appearance. Doing so will help build a culture that celebrates all bodies.
Simple practices, such as appreciating your body’s functions and limiting harmful social media exposure, can also help build lasting body confidence.”
Shift the focus from how your body looks to what it allows you to experience. Our bodies allow us to do amazing things and experience life to the fullest – whether it’s swimming in the sea on holiday, hugging your best friend, playing football with your children, dancing to music at a gig, savouring your favourite meal, or going for a walk with your dog!
Unfollow accounts that promote unrealistic appearance ideals. Instead, follow people that celebrate appearance diversity. We’re all naturally different, and this diversity is something to be celebrated! To support your wellbeing further, think about your hobbies and engage with social media accounts that focus on these – whether it’s art, music, dancing, gardening, cooking, travel, books or anything else you enjoy!
It’s natural to talk about appearance – we often do it without thinking. But casual comments about bodies can reinforce the idea that how we look matters more than who we are or how we feel. Instead of saying things like “I look awful today” or “You look so good – have you lost weight?”, try focusing on other things, like how someone’s doing, what they’re excited about, or something you’ve enjoyed recently!
We’re often our harshest critics, especially when it comes to how we look. Ask yourself “Would I say this to a friend?”. Speaking to yourself with the same kindness you’d offer someone you care about can make a difference in how you feel about your body. And don’t forget – people in your life love you for who you are, not how you look – in the same way that you love them!
We’re all different, and that’s something to celebrated. Our appearance reflects our heritage, connecting us to our family and where we come from. This connection is a meaningful part of who we are and something to be proud of. But who we are goes beyond how we look – it’s shaped by our personality, interests, and values. This makes each of us unique and wonderful!
Most Brits struggle with feeling confident in their skin at some point—especially as summer brings body insecurities into sharper focus. Whilst challenges like embarrassment, intimacy worries, or postponing healthcare are common, they can be overcome. By practising exercises to build positive body image and accessing modern treatments, you can reclaim body confidence step by step. UK Vein Clinic stands as a trusted resource to support you—because everyone deserves to feel comfortable, healthy, and empowered in their own body.
The findings in this report are based on a nationally representative online survey conducted by UK Vein Clinic in July 2025. A total of 2,000 UK adults aged 16 and over participated, reflecting a balanced mix of age, gender, region, and socio-economic backgrounds. The survey included questions on body confidence, body-specific insecurities, emotional impacts, and healthcare behaviours.
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