The Impact of Scarring: first-of-its-kind report to reveal true cost of scarring is now live
New report reveals the far-reaching and often overlooked impact of scarring on millions of people across the UK. Explore the physical, psychological, and economic costs in our report, and discover our Research Roadmap, designed to drive change.
Wednesday 21 October 2026
The Scar Free Foundation today launches The Impact of Scarring, our first-of-its-kind report examining the full burden of scarring across the UK.
Our report is released as its revealed an estimated 6 million UK adults are living with scars that affect their physical or emotional wellbeing, as more than half of UK adults (54%) say significant scarring should be treated by the NHS as a long-term condition, in the same way as diabetes and asthma*.
Drawing on decades of research, expert insight, and lived experience, the report explores how scarring can affect every aspect of life: from physical health, pain and mobility, to psychological wellbeing, relationships, and financial security.
More information and references on p.6 and p.7 of The Impact of Scarring
Scarring affects millions of people, yet its impact remains widely overlooked and misunderstood. This report sets out evidence, highlights the scale of the challenge, and makes the case for action.
Our accompanying Research Roadmap sets out what’s needed to deliver meaningful change for people affected by scarring, and help us move towards a future where scarring is better understood, prevented and treated.
Our Research Roadmap details how significant investment would be used to support vital research and improve life for those affected by scars
The personal, health, and economic burden of scarring must not be ignored any longer.
Scarring can change a person’s life in an instant, with consequences that may last a lifetime. Scarring is widely understood to be the end of a healthcare journey, but for some people, it can mean the beginning of a completely different one – where there is no clear pathway, and some people are affected more than others.
We are so thankful to Hemani, Ben, Becky, Raiché, and Ada, who have shared their lived experience as part of this report
We invite you take a look at this issue in more detail by reading our report, exploring our online area, and understanding – through lived experience stories and experts – how scars can change lives.
Discover through our Research Roadmap that with funding and guidance, change is possible – and become part of the conversation shaping the future of scar research and care.
*For more information, facts, figures and references from our Censuswide survey, please downloadour press release:
Together, we can turn promising research into better treatments, improve lives today and move closer to a future free from the devastating impact of scarring. Your support helps fund pioneering research that could transform the lives of millions of people affected by scarring.
Know someone who would be interested in the future of scar-free healing? Please share our report and help us raise awareness of the impact of scarring and the research that could change lives.
News and views
Scar Free Foundation Ambassador and Chief Executive call for greater recognition of the impact of scarring in ITV interview
Scar Free Foundation Ambassador Aleema Ali shared her story on ITV Calendar, as Chief Executive Richard Nugee spoke about the urgent need for greater recognition, better long-term support, and funding for research, which would impact millions across the UK.
Read: Scar Free Foundation Ambassador and Chief Executive call for greater recognition of the impact of scarring in ITV interview
Action to inspire better future for millions kick-started at Impact of Scarring report launch
An evening bringing together supporters, researchers, clinicians and Scar Free Ambassadors marked the launch of our landmark report – and the beginning of a wider campaign to turn its findings into meaningful change for people affected by scarring.
Read: Action to inspire better future for millions kick-started at Impact of Scarring report launch
The Impact of Scarring: first-of-its-kind report to reveal true cost of scarring is now live
New report reveals the far-reaching and often overlooked impact of scarring on millions of people across the UK. Explore the physical, psychological, and economic costs in our report, and discover our Research Roadmap, designed to drive change.
Read: The Impact of Scarring: first-of-its-kind report to reveal true cost of scarring is now live