Cardiff University partners with leading skincare company to develop a digital health app for people living with skin conditions

Cardiff University is partnering with Beiersdorf skincare brand Eucerin to develop and evaluate a digital psychological support and behaviour change app for people living with serious skin conditions.

The purpose of the app is to provide psychological support to people with skin conditions, helping them to build resilience and achieve goals for healthy living. The app will be the first of its kind and will involve a group of global patient organisations as partners in its development.

Professor Chris Bundy and Rachael Hewitt, researchers at School of Healthcare Sciences Cardiff University, are leading on this innovative project which contributes to the University’s reputation as a leading centre for clinical skin disease research.

Speaking about the three year project, Professor Bundy said:

“This work will build on the success of our work and current relationships with the global organisation; International Alliance of Dermatology Patient Organisations – Global Skin, and world leading dermatology colleagues at Hamburg University. I’m excited to get started – we hope the proposed technology will make a real difference to people’s lives.”

People living with skin conditions can experience social stigma, which over time, can lead to psychological and social concerns. The app will help support its audience to remain socially active and psychologically well.

Cornelius Becker, Global Head of Derma Cosmetics at Beiersdorf, adds:

“At Eucerin, ‘We believe in the life-changing power of dermatological skincare -this is our purpose and the reason why, beyond our business, we are committed to promote social inclusion for individuals and groups across all ages affected by dermatological diseases. This project is a great way to support this social mission.”