That's according to research by the Learning and Skills Council (LSC), which says that just £10,998 million is spent on skills learning, as opposed to the £20,612 milion spent on cosmetics, beauty and hair care.

A spokesman for the LSC said:

"We need to let people know that if they spend a little more on education, and if eligible for funding this could be a very low investment, they could actually afford more pampering sessions. It's another great incentive for everyone to improve their skills."