Previously submitted to: JMIR Dermatology (no longer under consideration since Sep 23, 2026)
Date Submitted: Sep 8, 2025
Open Peer Review Period: Sep 15, 2025 - Nov 10, 2025
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Mobile Applications in Dermatology From 2013 to 2025: Cross-Sectional Study of Categories, Pricing, and AI Use
ABSTRACT
Background:
Dermatology, a specialty grounded in visual assessment, is uniquely positioned to be influenced by advances in mobile health technology. The rapid growth of mobile applications, particularly those utilizing artificial intelligence, provides insight into how technological innovation is transforming patient education, self-care, diagnostic support, and clinical workflows. Examining these apps provides valuable information for understanding current trends in digital dermatology and anticipating their impact on future practice.
Objective:
To identify and categorize current mobile dermatologic-related apps available on the Apple and Google Play stores.
Methods:
Dermatology-related search terms were queried in the Apple and Google Play stores. Applications were assigned to 12 categories based on description. Apple App Store and Google Play Store, January–May 2025. Applications were included if they contained name, type, price, number of reviews, target audience, and use of AI were recorded.
Results:
From 229 apps in 2013 to 474 in 2025, the dermatology-related application market has more than doubled. The most represented categories were Skin Analysis (21.3%), Product Information & Ingredient Checker (17.9%), Educational Aids (11.6%), and Self-Diagnosis & Self-Surveillance Tools (10.8%). Over half of the apps were free, with the remainder split between subscription-based, paid, or free with in-app purchases. Target audiences included consumers, healthcare providers, and a smaller portion designed for both. Notably, 176 apps (37.1%) included artificial intelligence features, most often for image analysis and beauty scoring.
Conclusions:
Dermatology-related mobile applications have more than doubled in number since 2013, with substantial expansion in consumer-facing and AI-enabled tools. Although these apps may improve patient engagement and access to care, concerns remain regarding accuracy, privacy, and clinical oversight. Dermatologists should remain informed about app use to help guide patients toward safe and validated digital resources.
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