Over the next few weeks, Superdrug will be rolling out a new skin advice and treatment service, which is a first for the UK high street.
They’re training pharmacists in providing support for a range of skin conditions, and then, where appropriate, to prescribe selected prescription-only medicines.
Two conditions they’re expecting to see lots of, and where medication might be suitable, are acne and eczema given they are two of the most common skin conditions in the UK.
Superdrug’s scheme aims to make the level of advice people can obtain about their skin health more accessible, so consultations will be walk-in and free of charge.
More than half of adults have seen a doctor about a visible skin condition, but Superdrug’s research has found that people are less likely to seek help due to appointment shortages and waiting lists.
This aims to plug some of that gap, by offering out tips and recommendations.
The health company have also partnered with influencers to showcase their skin without makeup or touchups in the hopes of normalising common skin concerns.
Dr Sara Kayat, Superdrug ambassador says ‘skin is often the focus on the perception of health and beauty’ and that as well as addressing issues from a health perspective, this side is acknowledged too.
She hopes the new service will ‘allow people to live more confidently in the skin they’re in as well as helping to treat their skin conditions.’
This comes as Superdrug’s research shows two thirds of people feel self-conscious about their skin, nearly half have lost confidence due to it, 41% feel embarrassed by it, and 24% have even stopped socialising due to feeling bad about it.
In terms of wellbeing it affects people too, as 21% said their mental health has suffered due to their skin, with some people experiencing depression.
Wanting to show how common acne and eczema in particular are, the brand has shared that 95% of those aged 11 to 30 have been affected by the former, and one in 12 adults have the latter.
Caris Newson, head of healthcare services at Superdrug says: ‘As our research has shown, skin conditions can unfortunately have a huge impact on an individual’s self-esteem.
‘Our new service will hopefully go some way in giving people an easy and convenient way to get professional help, advice or treatment for their skin, simply by visiting their local high street Superdrug pharmacy.’
Do you have a story to share?
Get in touch by emailing [email protected].
Source: Read Full Article