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Skin care in the pharmacy: Front Shop Module 5, 2023
The skin is the largest organ of the body, accounting for about 7 % of the total adult
body weight. Its functions go well beyond serving as a covering that protects the
body. The skin is pliable yet tough, allowing it to take constant punishment from
external physical, chemical and biological agents. Without our skin, we would quickly
become ill from bacterial infection or die from water and heat loss.
The desire to have flawless skin is not new and has been documented since the
times of ancient Egypt, when unguent, a soothing ointment was used to hydrate the
skin. Skin issues can cause low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and social
isolation.
Pharmacists and the front shop members of staff in a community pharmacy play an
important role in helping their customers maintain the health of their skin. From
appropriate management of simple skin conditions, such as dry or oily skin, to the
prevention and treatment of photoaging, the pharmacy staff are frequently the
frontline healthcare workers for patients struggling with minor skin conditions or
wanting to improve the health and appearance of their skin.
The pharmacy staff are also ideally positioned to educate customers about the
importance of appropriate skin care.
