This week brings significant news for the UK’s dermatology scene: sk:nclinics have announced their immediate closure. With 70 locations nationwide, sk:n has been a key provider of dermatology, anti-ageing, laser hair removal, and tattoo removal services for years.
Staff were told last week that all sk:n clinics would shut down immediately. An email to customers followed, directing them to the sk:n website for more details. Unfortunately, the website offered no information about the closure, phone lines were down, and the site has since been taken offline.
Reports indicate that sk:n had been working with Alvarez & Marsal to try to save the business. Despite these efforts, the decision to close was finalised, leaving many questions for both employees and customers.
Founded in 1990 in Harrogate, sk:n started by specialising in port wine stain birthmark removal. The brand quickly expanded, opening clinics in Birmingham City Hospital and Harley Street in 1993. Over the years, sk:n partnered with the NHS, treating various dermatological conditions under NHS contracts for 30 years, establishing itself as a leader in dermatological care.
The sudden closure has left a significant impact on staff and patients. Employees face job uncertainty, and patients must find new providers for ongoing treatments, often without immediate guidance.
The closure of this major clinic network raises questions about the future of dermatology services in the UK. Patients who trusted sk:n’s expertise will need to find new providers, and the NHS will need to fill the gap left by sk:n’s departure.
In the next few weeks, the full impact of sk:n’s closure will become clearer. For now, customers and staff should stay informed through official channels as new information emerges. The closure marks the end of an era in UK dermatology, highlighting the changing nature of the healthcare industry.
Our thoughts are with those affected by this sudden change, and we hope for swift resolutions for both employees and patients during this transition.
We are offering all sk:n patients a free consultation and 25% off their first treatment with us.
020 3989 6009
07942 355093
Retriva Aesthetic Clinic
250 King's Road, Chelsea, London SW3 5UE