Why doctor-led brands are NOT the future of skincare

With science-backed skincare in high demand, consumers are increasingly turning to brands led by qualified medical practitioners. It makes sense – these are people we trust with our lives after all, so why wouldn’t we trust them with our skin? In our latest podcast, we explore the rise of doctor-led skincare with Dr Sabrina Shah, oculoplastic surgeon and founder of Dr Sabrina Perfect Eyes. (Listen to the full episode here.)

Dr Shah shares why doctor-led brands like hers stand out, emphasising their freedom to carve a unique path, without the corporate red tape.

"People appreciate independent, pioneering brands that stay true to their mission," she explains. "As doctors, we’re bound by a code of conduct. Our credentials give the brand built-in authority, offering peace of mind and cutting through the marketing noise."

Dr Shah highlights that her patients trust her products because of her commitment to science and evidence. "They know I’ve invested in research and studies. They trust the product because they trust my expertise."

However, when asked if doctor-led brands are the future of skincare, Dr Shah remains sceptical…

"Doctor-led brands are niche. We focus on specific concerns within our area of expertise. It’s a targeted, sound approach, and that appeals to consumers, but it’s not something that will hit the mass market,” she says.

While doctor-led brands have authority, Dr Shah notes that today’s shoppers have varied priorities. "Consumers looking for professional-grade solutions may seek out doctor-led brands, but many are just looking for trust and authenticity, no matter the brand’s background."

With that in mind, crafting a compelling brand story and communicating it effectively is essential. At Smart Beauty Creative, we specialise in helping brands achieve just that, creating an authentic message that resonates with consumers.

Do you need help honing your brand tone of voice and story? Schedule a 15-minute discovery call by clicking here. Or browse our Services page to find out more about what we do.

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