Boots has announced a significant expansion of its dermatological services across the UK.
The British health and beauty retailer is now offering specialised skin condition advice through newly trained pharmacists, an AI-powered skin checking tool, and an expanded product range.
These initiatives come as demand for skin health support continues to rise among British consumers.
Boots has launched dermatology training on common skin conditions for its pharmacists and pharmacy team members in 200 stores nationwide.
The training has been developed in partnership with L'Oréal Groupe and leading consultant dermatologist Dr Justine Hextall, and is approved by the British Association of Dermatologists.
'We know that the number of people suffering from common skin conditions is rising'
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The initiative equips Boots pharmacists to advise on common skin conditions, including acne, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, keratosis pilaris, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation, with no appointment needed.
Alongside this training, Boots has launched an AI-powered SmartSkin Checker tool via its Online Doctor service.
The tool can screen for over 70 skin conditions by analysing uploaded photos, with a 95 per cent likelihood that the correct condition is among the five results returned.
These new services respond to consumer demand, as research by No7 shows that "almost all" women in the UK (97 per cent) have experienced at least one skin issue.
Meanwhile, the British Skin Foundation reports that 60 per cent of the population have lived with a skin condition.
In light of this, Boots promises to "bolster" its skin health offerings with a range of additional services.
These include online health tools and information through Boots Health Hub and Skin Hub, in-store beauty experts and specialists, and advanced skin imaging technology in six flagship stores.
The retailer is also expanding its best-selling DermaCare brand to include a new acne range featuring five targeted products classified as medical devices.
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Boots pharmacists will be able to advise on and treat common skin conditions
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Consultant Dermatologist Dr Justine Hextall said: "The training I developed for Boots in collaboration with L’Oréal Dermatological Beauty gives pharmacists the ability to advise on and treat the most common skin conditions.
"We know that the number of people suffering from common skin conditions is rising and, for those affected, it can have a huge impact, from uncomfortable, itchy skin to loss of confidence.
"Pharmacists are already highly-trained healthcare professionals, and this training allows them to get a deeper understanding of the skin."
This expansion comes just months after Boots relaunched a free 15-minute service to help prevent serious health problems.
