Doctors.net.uk Poll Reveals GPs Are Routinely Advising on Skincare and Cosmetics

Oxford, United Kingdom, April 30, 2010 --(PR.com)-- A survey, carried out by Doctors.net.uk, revealed more than half (57 per cent) of doctors advise patients every month on skincare and cosmetic issues, with more than a third (37 per cent) being asked about skincare as regularly as a few times every week.

With the results highlighting the breadth of medical, social, lifestyle and dietary issues on which GPs are expected to impart expertise, Simon Grime, head of healthcare for Doctors.net.uk, is calling on the healthcare, dietary and skincare industries to provide doctors with greater levels of relevant information and support.

He said: “The frequency with which doctors find themselves consulting on skincare and cosmetic issues is naturally met with an implicit pressure to keep abreast of the latest developments in the field. Yet, with many of the contributing factors extending far beyond the pages of the traditional medical reference book, doctors are turning increasingly to trusted online resources for practical, up to date and relevant information.

“Through ensuring that such information is readily available online, the skincare and cosmetics industry can make a real contribution to the effective and efficient treatment of patients.”

When asked to identify the most important factors in maintaining youthful skin, doctors indicated a wide range of lifestyle and diet habits, with the overwhelming majority citing not smoking (95 per cent), a balanced diet (81 per cent) and non excessive alcohol consumption (74 per cent) as key factors. More than two in five advocated the use of skincare products such as cleanser and moisturiser and the consumption of vitamins and use of cosmetics were deemed important by eight per cent and six per cent respectively.

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