The virtual skin doctor is ready to examine you.
These days, our pursuit of flawless skin is more intense than ever, partly driven by the rise of social media and celebrity culture. A study found that Gen Z spends more money on their skin than any other age group, and spending on skincare by youngsters aged 13 to 19 increased by 20% in 2023 alone. Technology has made it easier to get expert advice, too. During the pandemic, almost all dermatologists turned to "teledermatology," where they use video calls and digital images to discuss skin concerns remotely, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
The digital revolution in dermatology has been sped up by innovative digital tools. It's not just about smartphones and video calling apps; artificial intelligence (AI) is playing a big role. This means that many global brands can now offer virtual consultation rooms, diagnose, prescribe, and even create bespoke creams for their customers.
Dr. Shoshana Marmon, an Assistant Professor of Dermatology at New York Medical College, said that the popularity of digital dermatology exploded during the pandemic and is "rapidly advancing." It includes teledermatology, consumer technology, machine learning, augmented reality, and AI.
I'd never seen a dermatologist before (either digitally or in person), but at 43, I started to notice fine lines, large pores, and signs of sun damage. I decided to try a digital dermatology service called Klira, which was started in 2021 by a British dermatologist, Dr. Emma Craythorne. The service involves filling out an online questionnaire about your medical history and lifestyle, then giving detailed answers about your face. These answers are analyzed by Klira's in-house team of consultant dermatologists, who review the questionnaire along with photos of you without makeup.
Within 24 hours, you get your results, which include your "SkinSize," one of 12 categories that describe how your skin looks, feels, and ages. For example, being a "SkinSize 04" means that you might have some blocked follicles due to excess sebum, but your skin is normally easy to manage, as long as you wear sunscreen.
Based on this information, Klira prescribes a bespoke "Klira Solution," which is sent to your door within seven days. It's a nighttime cream that contains tretinoin (a prescription medication) and azelaic acid (an anti-inflammatory). The formula helps produce collagen, strengthen your skin's barrier, and even out your skin tone.
You can get support through an online "personal portal," which includes instructions, clinical notes, information on how to use the cream, and recommendations for other products like cleansers, moisturizers, and sunscreen. Klira also checks in with you after one and three months, but you can contact the team anytime for questions. However, you can cancel your monthly subscription at any time for a £65 flexible membership ($82).
Although skin improvements might take time (at least six weeks to see a "glow"), the speed and simplicity of the digital process are very impressive.
"I wanted answers to my skin concerns quickly, and using Klira helped me get that knowledge and experience without having to leave my house or wait for an appointment," said Claire Todd, a 35-year-old from Cleethorpes, England who sought Klira's help for pigmentation. She said that within eight weeks, she saw a difference, and after 12 weeks, her pigmentation was almost gone.
Emily Thompson, a 35-year-old from Los Angeles, used an AI-powered skin technology from Dr. Simon Ourian (a dermatologist who treats celebrities) to improve her skin. After uploading a photo and filling in a questionnaire about her lifestyle and skin concerns, an AI avatar of Dr. Simon prescribes "3 Daily Essentials," a cleanser, toner, and moisturizer.
"I'd heard of Dr. Simon Ourian, so when I heard about his AI-powered skin analysis, I wanted to try it. My life is busy and finding time for in-person appointments was always a challenge. This analysis doesn't replace in-person visits for serious skin concerns, but it works for what I needed – to have smoother, more hydrated, and more radiant skin," said Thompson. "I love that I can do this from home."
Despite the benefits, there are some downsides and limitations to using digital dermatologists.
"In-person consultations are crucial in certain cases, especially for intricate or grave dermatological conditions that call for physical examination, biopsies, or blood tests, Dr. Ifeoma Ejikeme, Medical Director and Founder of Adonia Medical Clinic in London, explained.
Bryony Firth-Bernard, a 28-year-old from Gloucestershire, England, discovered this firsthand when dealing with acute acne. She opted for a physical meeting with a dermatologist, stating "I was using an online service before, but it made no noticeable difference. The money I spent meeting a real-life dermatologist was well worth it. I was given Roaccutane, which necessitates blood tests and isn't something to be taken lightly. It significantly improved my skin," she said in an interview with CNN over the phone. "I comprehend why individuals would choose an online dermatologist too, as acne attacks self-esteem, and you'd do anything to mend it, and it works for some people. Still, what I required called for a healthcare professional in person."
However, if you don't absolutely need in-person assistance, the lack of human contact may not appeal to everyone. Christal Alert, a 29-year-old in New York and founder and CEO of Tonal Cosmetics, had mixed feelings about her experience with an online dermatology service called Apostrophe while treating her severe acne and hyperpigmentation. "My skin did improve a little, and I would suggest the digital dermatologist approach," she said. "It's convenient and stress-free, but I think having a one-on-one call with the dermatologist could have improved my experience. Like with any treatment, it may need trial and error to find the ideal solution."
Should you venture into the digital realm, be meticulous. "Investigate the platform's standing and history in producing accurate diagnoses and treatment suggestions," Dr. Ejikeme advised. "Inquire about the provider - are they qualified and educated enough to offer skin or skincare advice? Consider how the platform ensures privacy and data protection, and what the process is if you need follow-up consultations or referrals."
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In this era of digital advancements, consumers embrace the style of personalized skincare solutions provided by digital dermatology services. For instance, Klira's virtual consultation room offers a unique blend of beauty and technology, tailoring bespoke creams based on individual skin concerns.
The rise of AI in dermatology has revolutionized the industry, allowing global brands to offer AI-driven diagnosis and prescribing, enhancing both style and effectiveness in skincare treatment.
