Latest news with #JustineHextall
Daily Mirror
5 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mirror
'Boots new free AI skin checker spotted my rare condition first go'
Boots has launched a new AI-powered skin tool that can screen for over 70 skin conditions and is available via Boots Online Doctor. We tried it out to see if it really works A new study reveals that millions are grappling with skin conditions. A British Skin Foundation study found that nearly two thirds (60%) of the population have experienced a skin problem at some point in their lives. Furthermore, skin issues are the leading cause for GP visits, accounting for one in four new consultations in England and Wales. However, there can be numerous reasons to delay seeking medical advice for a spot, rash or other skin concern. Boots has now introduced an AI-powered skin tool capable of screening over 70 skin conditions, accessible via Boots Online Doctor. The Boots Online Doctor SmartSkin Checker operates through a straightforward photo upload of the skin issue. Using AI technology, the tool provides up to five potential skin conditions the user may be experiencing, including acne, eczema, rosacea, impetigo, and fungal infections. There's a 95% chance that one of the five results generated by the SmartSkin Checker is the accurate condition. While the results are not a diagnosis and cannot substitute professional healthcare advice, the SmartSkin Checker can offer customers an indication and guidance on next steps. But does it genuinely deliver? reports Surrey Live. I decided to test it on three skin problems I've had and evaluate the outcomes. I must admit, I was rather impressed with the findings. I was diagnosed with lichen sclerosis a few years back - an incurable yet manageable condition that affects up to one in 1,000 individuals, according to the National Library of Medicine. When I ran a photo through the Boots Online Doctor SmartSkin Checker it presented five potential diagnoses, with lichen sclerosis topping the list. Considering the consultant's surprise at my GP's initial detection, I found this to be quite impressive. Another instance involved a rash I picked up while camping last summer, which was excruciatingly itchy and sore, taking ages to get rid of. Doctors concluded it was a reaction to something encountered during the trip - perhaps the grass - identifying it as contact dermatitis. Upon testing the image with the checker, the correct diagnosis appeared, this time second among five possible outcomes. For my third test, I submitted a dark spot on my arm, which I had previously had checked out. Both doctors - and the Boots checker -confirmed my initial thoughts that is was simply a "liver spot". This checker is part of Boots' latest initiative to enhance skin care services. The high street retailer has rolled out dermatology training for its pharmacists and pharmacy staff across 200 stores nationwide, with plans to expand to additional locations soon. Boots has teamed up with L'Oréal Groupe and consultant dermatologist, Dr Justine Hextall, to develop a training programme that's received the British Association of Dermatologists (BAD)'s seal of approval. This initiative will enable Boots pharmacists to provide expert advice on prevalent skin conditions such as acne, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, keratosis pilaris, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation without the need for an appointment. The comprehensive training also encompasses melanoma, understanding of skin structure, the skin microbiome, and scalp health. Jamie Kerruish, Healthcare Director at Boots, commented: "There is a clear need for accessible support for skin concerns and conditions, which is why we are so proud to be launching new technology and upskilling our pharmacy team members in stores. Combined with our huge skincare product range and beauty expertise, we can be the first port of call for all those with a skin concern, making it really easy for people to get quick advice and helping to relieve pressures on GP surgeries across the country." Dr Justine Hextall, Consultant Dermatologist, stated: "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 numbers 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." In addition to the support available in-store from the dermatologically trained pharmacists and pharmacy team members, and online via the Boots Online Doctor SmartSkin Checker, Boots offers a wide array of skin support services. These include: Online health tools and information – Diagnostic and treatment services from Boots Online Doctor ** and information and resources via the Boots Health Hub and Boots Skin Hub Beauty experts, tools and services instore – including Boots Beauty Specialists, No7 Advisors and the No7 Pro Derm Scan, a NEXA skin imaging tool in six flagship Boots stores A wide range of products – Boots is home to thousands of skincare products – from treatment for common skin conditions to specialist and premium skincare from leading brands like La Roche-Posay, CeraVe and Vichy alongside its own label brands Boots is also broadening its best-selling own label brand for healthy skin, DermaCare, to incorporate an acne range. The range includes five targeted products, classified as medical devices, designed to treat symptoms of acne. For further information on skin support at Boots,visit the Boots Skin Hub.
Graziadaily
23-05-2025
- Health
- Graziadaily
The New Free Dermatology Service At Boots Could Change Your Skin For Good
My skin struggles trace back to 2010. I had just graduated from secondary school with 10 GCSEs and a fresh face unscathed by spots, oily T-zones or any other skin woe associated with the hormonal fluctuations of teenhood. That all changed at college, when A-level induced stress left me riddled with cystic acne. Armed with little-to-no knowledge of how to treat it, I resorted to cutting out dairy, processed foods, sugar and ordered skincare from the US because a clear-skinned YouTuber told me to (mostly all in vain by the way). My hopelessness reached its peak when my GP said acne was 'normal' and I should come back when my skin gets worse. Spoiler: it did. That was until I finally met with a dermatologist years down the line who introduced me to Treclin, a prescription-only topical acne treatment that combines antibiotic clindamycin and vitamin A-derived retinoid tretinoin, which started to clear up the problem. Fast forward to 2025, I have hormonal acne that comes with its fair share of good and bad days (and I've discovered all of the best make-up products for acne-prone skin), but I often think about where my skin would be today if I had had the right tools as a totally lost acne-prone teen. Thankfully, Boots' new initiative is seeking to address the problem head on. Intent on becoming the one-stop solution for accessible skin health, Boots has launched dermatology training for its pharmacists and pharmacy teams based in over 150 nationwide stores, who will now be able to provide free, in-store support on common skin conditions like acne, rosacea, psoriasis and even scalp health. All you need to do in walk-in. Approved by the British Association of Dermatologists, the nine module training programme (which spans everything from skin microbiome to pigmentation) has been developed with the L'Oréal Groupe's research and expertise as well as 20-year strong clinical insights provided by consultant dermatologist Dr Justine Hextall, to arm Boots' Pharmacy Team with a well-rounded understanding of how best to guide customers on their skin concerns. Importantly, the training course includes pathologies across type 4 and 6 skin types, meaning there is less chance of misdiagnosing skin conditions experienced by those with medium to deep skin tones. Sameeha at Boots, Westfield London ©Boots 'There is an unmet need for this,' says Dr. Hextall, 'People may visit the pharmacy, GP or dermatologist along their skin journey but as a dermatologist when someone sits in front of me I often think, "if only their first point of contact was A, B and C they wouldn't be here now and their problem wouldn't have gotten worse". It's all about making sure all touch points on the patient's journey are excellent. And how do you do that? You deliver education.' Boots is quickly positioning itself as that reliable first point of contact, where skin solutions can be found all under one roof. Jamie Kerruish, healthcare director at Boots, says, 'There is a clear need for accessible support for skin concerns and conditions, which is why we are so proud to be launching new technology and upskilling our pharmacy team members in stores. Combined with our huge skincare product range and beauty expertise, we can be the first port of call for all those with a skin concern, making it really easy for people to get quick advice and helping to relieve pressures on GP surgeries across the country.' In fact, according to research from No7, almost all (97%) women in the UK say they have experienced at least one skin issue, while data from NHS England in 2022 found skin conditions are the most common reason for people visiting GPs, accounting for one in four new consultations in England and Wales. The new offering comes alongside the launch of an AI-powered skin tool, the Boots Online Doctor SmartSkin Checker, which can screen for over 70 skin conditions with a quick image upload of problem areas. Available through the Boots Online Doctor, the tool can help to identify up to five skin conditions customers could be experiencing and there is a 95% likelihood that one of those is correct, which can then provide the basis of a treatment plan with the help of expert-led in-store guidance. As one of the first to try out the new initiative, which has been rolled out this week, I took my case of adult acne to the shop floor at Boots Westfield London. There, a pharmacist asked a series of questions about my current skincare routine and lifestyle choices before pointing me in the direction of the kinds of products that can help: a gentle cleanser, oil-free formulas and a new tube of Treclin, which can be prescribed by Boots Online Doctor. No hefty fees, no waiting lists, Boots is revolutionising the way we approach skin health for good. Sameeha Shaikh is Grazia's beauty writer, covering all categories to bring you insights on the latest trends, industry news and the products you need to know about, viral or not (most probably viral).
Scottish Sun
28-04-2025
- Health
- Scottish Sun
Expert's definitive guide to the skincare you can & can't use when pregnant – the main ‘dangers' to babies & safe swaps
All recommendations within this article are informed by expert editorial opinion. If you click on a link in this story we may earn affiliate revenue. Including the ingredients you have to avoid OH BABY Expert's definitive guide to the skincare you can & can't use when pregnant – the main 'dangers' to babies & safe swaps Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) FINDING out you're pregnant is incredibly exciting, but can be overwhelming too. As soon as that blue line appears on the test, there is a long list of rules to follow. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 12 Not all skincare products are safe to use while pregnant, breastfeeding or even trying to conceive Credit: Getty It's not just about avoiding blue cheese and saying no to a G&T – you might also need to switch up your skincare routine. Not all skincare products and treatments are safe to use when trying to conceive, pregnant or breastfeeding. Some because they may harm your baby, and others because they aren't compatible with the hormonal skin changes that pregnancy brings. To help you navigate this, we asked consultant dermatologist Dr Justine Hextall for advice on which products and treatments you can keep in your routine and which to relegate to the back of the bathroom cupboard or pause for the next nine months. Remember, though, that this is only a guide, and it's important to check with your doctor or midwife if you are unsure whether or not to use a product. 12 Consultant Dermatologist Dr Justine Hextall shares her pregnancy beauty advice Credit: Justine Hextall Which skincare ingredients and salon treatments should you avoid during pregnancy? Retinoids Retinoids (aka vitamin A) are a family of ingredients that include prescription products like Roaccutane and Tretinoin, and cosmetic ones like retinal and retinol. All retinoids are a no-go during pregnancy, but especially Roaccutane, a medication used to treat acne. 'This is not safe during pregnancy,' says Dr Hextall. 'Robust contraception is a must when taking Roaccutane, and doctors insist on monthly pregnancy tests. "It is also advised to wait a month after stopping this medication before attempting to become pregnant.' If you normally use a retinoid serum to keep early signs of ageing at bay, there are alternative ingredients you can use. 12 Azelaic acid is a great alternative to retinol during pregnancy Credit: Skin+ME Skin + Me Brighten + Boost Calming Azelaic Acid Serum, £19.99 Dr Hextall suggests 'azelaic acid to brighten, vitamin C to encourage collagen and elastin production and hyaluronic acid to plump the skin.' 12 Nicinamide helps reduce inflammation and balance oil production Credit: Naturium Naturium Niacinamide Serum 12% Plus Zinc 2%, £18 To replace retinoids used for breakouts, 'azelaic acid will help reduce inflammation and niacinamide will balance sebum.' Hydroquinone Like prescription retinoids, hydroquinone, a drug which treats hyperpigmentation, AKA those pesky patches of darker skin, should also be stopped before becoming pregnant. Experts aren't entirely sure how hydroquinone can impact a foetus, but they do know that it has a very high absorption rate simply from being applied to the skin. 'Safe alternatives for pigmentation include azelaic acid, niacinamide, vitamin C and liquorice root extract,' advises Dr Hextall. 12 Vitamin C is pregnancy safe and helps reduce melasma The INKEY List™ 15% Vitamin C and EGF Serum, £15 Salicylic acid If you have oily or spot-prone skin, you probably use a cleanser or toner containing salicylic acid. This is related to Aspirin, which Dr Hextall explains 'can cross the placenta and may be dangerous in pregnancy.' Topical salicylic acid, though, the kind you apply to your skin, 'can be used in low doses such as 2% and below when pregnant.' Some companies will share how much salicylic acid their product contains, but others are cagey about their percentages. If you're unsure how much salicylic acid is in a formula, steer clear. 'I would suggest azelaic acid as a safe alternative to treat blemishes, as well as lactic acid,' explains Dr Hextall. 'Niacinamide is also safe and will strengthen the skin barrier at the same time as reducing inflammation in blemishes.' 12 Lactic acid is a gentle alternative to salycilic acid Credit: The Ordinary The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + HA, £7.70 Essential oils Essential oils are a tricky one. 'Often they are used to aid sleep and reduce stress, which is helpful in pregnancy, but some are contraindicated for various reasons,' Dr Hextall says. 'Sage, rosemary, thyme and cinnamon bark, among others, have been shown to stimulate uterine contractions, and for obvious reasons, this isn't advisable.' Essential oils can also cause irritation and allergies, and as pregnancy can make your skin more sensitive, you might be more likely than normal to experience a reaction. Botox 12 You should avoid Botox throughout your pregnancy Credit: Getty As a general rule, you and your aesthetician need to go on a break during your pregnancy. Nearly all in-clinic cosmetic treatments are unsuitable when you're expecting. As for Botox, there have been animal studies which concluded it was dangerous to use when pregnant. 'Botox has not been shown to enter breast milk, though,' says Dr Hextall, so you may be able to restart appointments after your baby is born as long as you proceed with caution. Laser treatments The key issue with lasers during pregnancy is less a risk to your baby, but more that 'there is a risk of increased sensitivity and post-laser pigmentation,' explains Dr Hextall. 'There also isn't enough data for the use of lasers in pregnancy to advise them.' Essentially, having a laser treatment may cause more skin problems than it solves, so don't waste your money. This includes IPL, lasers used for hair removal and radiofrequency lasers. Dermal fillers 'There are no safety studies for the use of dermal fillers in pregnancy,' cautions Dr Hextall. 'Remember, you are injecting a foreign substance into the skin.' On a purely cosmetic basis, you may also find that your face becomes puffier with water retention during pregnancy, and fuller pregnancy lips are a thing. Adding filler into the mix might look odd combined with these hormonal changes. Chemical peels Medium and deep chemical peels often contain retinoids, hydroquinone and high doses of salicylic acid, all of which Dr Hextall has already put on our banned list. 'Peels are not advisable during pregnancy and many are also best avoided when breastfeeding,' she adds. 'Lighter lactic acid, azelaic acid, and low concentration glycolic and mandelic acid peels can be carried out with caution.' If you did go down that route when pregnant, it's more important than ever to ensure you are visiting a good, well-qualified aesthetician. Gel manicures 12 Gel nails aren't a complete no-no, but there's some precautions which are sensible to take Credit: Getty Whether you're pregnant or not, Dr Hextall is always cautious about nail treatments and the potential for allergies. 'There are allergens such as methacrylate, which is used to harden BIAB, acrylic and gel nails, which can cause significant allergies. "There isn't evidence that there is necessarily an increased risk of allergy in pregnancy, but for some, the skin is drier and therefore more prone to irritation and damage. "When the skin breaks down around the nail, there is a risk of infection, and this is a concern.' There are also risks around inhaling chemicals. 'If they are inhaled, we are not clear regarding their safety,' continues Dr Hextall. 'I would therefore suggest a suitable mask and ensure any salon is well ventilated.' Ideally, you should reduce how regularly you have your nails done to minimise risk and allow them to recover between treatments. Hair dye Hair dye comes with a risk of allergy at the best of times, and this is heightened in pregnancy. 'Some people find they develop allergies to substances that were previously tolerable,' cautions Dr Hextall. 'I would suggest avoiding potential allergens such as permanent hair dye, or at the very least, if you have used this product safely before, then still have a new pre-treatment patch test.' It's always better to be on the safe side. 'Avoid contact with scalp skin as much as possible and consider safer, semi-permanent dyes.' Bleach should also be avoided. Dr Hextall explains that 'hydrogen peroxide and ammonia found in many bleaching products can be absorbed through skin and the fumes themselves inhaled. At the very least, make sure that if applied, there is no direct skin contact and that the room is well ventilated. Ammonia-free highlights would be safer, as would natural hair dyes.' Which skincare ingredients, products and treatments are safe during pregnancy? Hyaluronic acid Hyaluronic acid is a crowd-pleasing ingredient. It's suitable for all skin types and plays nicely with other actives. Dr Hextall confirms that 'this is safe for use in pregnancy and when layered under a light moisturiser can really help to plump and hydrate skin, protecting the all-important skin barrier. During pregnancy, skin can be prone to dryness and irritation, so this is a good addition to your routine.' 12 Hyaluronic Acid is pregnancy-safe, and helps moisturise skin Credit: Vichy Vichy Mineral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Serum, £28 Vitamin C Another ingredient with a big thumbs up from Dr Hextall is vitamin C. We are more likely to experience unwanted pigmentation, especially larger patches of this called melasma, when pregnant, which vitamin C acts as a layer of protection against. 'It is a strong antioxidant and will shield the skin from UV and pollution, both of which contribute to skin damage and pigmentation. A word of caution, though, pregnancy skin can be more sensitive, and at high doses, vitamin C can be an irritant. Start at around 10% if introducing during pregnancy.' 12 If you're new to Vitamin C, start at 10% strength to avoid irritation Credit: Simple Simple 10% Vitamin C + E + F Booster Serum, £9.99 Sunscreen Not wearing a good, high-factor, broad-spectrum sunscreen on your face during pregnancy will increase your chances of hyperpigmentation patches popping up. All SPFs are broadly considered safe during pregnancy, but if you want to be extra cautious, Dr Hextall says, 'there is some talk of potential hormone disruption from certain chemical sunscreen filters such as oxybenzone and octinoxate. For many in dermatology, this is theoretical, though, and without robust data.' If you want to avoid these ingredients, try a mineral-based sunscreen which uses zinc and titanium dioxide as filters instead. 12 SPF is a must-wear, whether you're pregnant or not Credit: Naked Sundays Naked Sundays Collagen Glow 100% Mineral Sunscreen SPF50+, £28 Collagen supplements The short answer is that collagen supplements are safe to take during pregnancy, but you still need to do your research. 'A good, hydrolysed collagen has the best chance of absorption to support healthy skin, nails and hair,' recommends Dr Hextall. 'Seek out high-quality supplements that are as free as possible from additives and fillers. "Be cautious about other added ingredients like herbs, and if in doubt, seek medical advice.' It's also really important not to exceed the recommended dose. 'Excessive protein can cause kidney damage, and our kidneys have to work harder in pregnancy,' Dr Hextall adds. LED masks 12 LED face masks are generally thought to be a pregnancy-safe alternative to other anti-wrinkle treatments Credit: Getty Love your LED mask? You don't necessarily need to give it up. Dr Hextall says that 'both high-dose in-clinic treatments and at-home LED masks are considered a safe and effective alternative to other treatments that may be contraindicated in pregnancy for acne and rosacea.' The only potential risk is that blue light can sometimes increase the risk of pigmentation, especially if you have a deeper skin tone.
