Proton Health Origin Story.
Proton Health Origin Story.
Proton Health Origin Story.
Discover the origin story of Proton Health, an eczema super-app created by doctors and eczema patients.
Discover the origin story of Proton Health, an eczema super-app created by doctors and eczema patients.
Discover the origin story of Proton Health, an eczema super-app created by doctors and eczema patients.
2021-10-07T00:00:00.000Z
2021-10-07T00:00:00.000Z
2021-10-07T00:00:00.000Z
Origin Story
Our story began whilst we were still budding doctors at medical school. It was clear to us, even then, how confusing it can be to manage long-term conditions. We found that healthcare felt more and more difficult to access in a world where everything was becoming more seamless.
Nowhere was this difference more apparent than in eczema, where care seemed to be going backwards. We still hadn’t figured out the cause of flare-ups, the treatments were increasingly difficult to navigate, and the amount of misinformation online had become overwhelming.
And we knew this not only due to our background as doctors but because we’re also eczema patients. And have been for our entire lives. So we could see that the standard of care had not only flattened but was going backwards since our youth.
These observations were supported by the evidence in the Seeing Red paper by Allergy UK. This showed the degree of impact on day-to-day life, with 70% of respondents experiencing depression and 86% describing eczema as affecting their daily life. But the most staggering fact was that, for 30% of individuals, it took 4-7 months after a referral to be seen by a dermatologist.
This wasn’t helped by looking at the existing options. Because it was clear that there was a need for a unified, more comprehensive solution to tackle eczema. So, with our own experiences, this evidence and the potential benefits of technology, we knew we had to act. That’s why, despite working as doctors in the NHS, we set out to build a solution for the problem.
That’s when Proton Health was born - an eczema super-app that delivers everything an individual would ever need to conquer the condition. From finding out the cause of eczema to getting access to advanced research - Proton Health is designed to have it all.
Since our launch in March 2022, the feedback has been overwhelming. We’ve had glowing reviews from users explaining how the app has changed how they manage the condition. In that time, we’ve also received backing from global institutions, including the Francis Crick Institute and Startup Health.
Origin Story
Our story began whilst we were still budding doctors at medical school. It was clear to us, even then, how confusing it can be to manage long-term conditions. We found that healthcare felt more and more difficult to access in a world where everything was becoming more seamless.
Nowhere was this difference more apparent than in eczema, where care seemed to be going backwards. We still hadn’t figured out the cause of flare-ups, the treatments were increasingly difficult to navigate, and the amount of misinformation online had become overwhelming.
And we knew this not only due to our background as doctors but because we’re also eczema patients. And have been for our entire lives. So we could see that the standard of care had not only flattened but was going backwards since our youth.
These observations were supported by the evidence in the Seeing Red paper by Allergy UK. This showed the degree of impact on day-to-day life, with 70% of respondents experiencing depression and 86% describing eczema as affecting their daily life. But the most staggering fact was that, for 30% of individuals, it took 4-7 months after a referral to be seen by a dermatologist.
This wasn’t helped by looking at the existing options. Because it was clear that there was a need for a unified, more comprehensive solution to tackle eczema. So, with our own experiences, this evidence and the potential benefits of technology, we knew we had to act. That’s why, despite working as doctors in the NHS, we set out to build a solution for the problem.
That’s when Proton Health was born - an eczema super-app that delivers everything an individual would ever need to conquer the condition. From finding out the cause of eczema to getting access to advanced research - Proton Health is designed to have it all.
Since our launch in March 2022, the feedback has been overwhelming. We’ve had glowing reviews from users explaining how the app has changed how they manage the condition. In that time, we’ve also received backing from global institutions, including the Francis Crick Institute and Startup Health.
Origin Story
Our story began whilst we were still budding doctors at medical school. It was clear to us, even then, how confusing it can be to manage long-term conditions. We found that healthcare felt more and more difficult to access in a world where everything was becoming more seamless.
Nowhere was this difference more apparent than in eczema, where care seemed to be going backwards. We still hadn’t figured out the cause of flare-ups, the treatments were increasingly difficult to navigate, and the amount of misinformation online had become overwhelming.
And we knew this not only due to our background as doctors but because we’re also eczema patients. And have been for our entire lives. So we could see that the standard of care had not only flattened but was going backwards since our youth.
These observations were supported by the evidence in the Seeing Red paper by Allergy UK. This showed the degree of impact on day-to-day life, with 70% of respondents experiencing depression and 86% describing eczema as affecting their daily life. But the most staggering fact was that, for 30% of individuals, it took 4-7 months after a referral to be seen by a dermatologist.
This wasn’t helped by looking at the existing options. Because it was clear that there was a need for a unified, more comprehensive solution to tackle eczema. So, with our own experiences, this evidence and the potential benefits of technology, we knew we had to act. That’s why, despite working as doctors in the NHS, we set out to build a solution for the problem.
That’s when Proton Health was born - an eczema super-app that delivers everything an individual would ever need to conquer the condition. From finding out the cause of eczema to getting access to advanced research - Proton Health is designed to have it all.
Since our launch in March 2022, the feedback has been overwhelming. We’ve had glowing reviews from users explaining how the app has changed how they manage the condition. In that time, we’ve also received backing from global institutions, including the Francis Crick Institute and Startup Health.
Where Next
In truth, we really are just getting started... Whilst the app has many great features to tackle eczema, there’s more that we have to offer.
We’re currently working hard to add some significant features which, we believe, will create an entirely new healthcare experience for eczema sufferers. And with cutting-edge machine learning and advanced therapeutic techniques, we’re confident that we will eventually make eczema a thing of the past.
If you’re interested in hearing more about our journey and where we are headed, we welcome you to get in touch!
Where Next
In truth, we really are just getting started... Whilst the app has many great features to tackle eczema, there’s more that we have to offer.
We’re currently working hard to add some significant features which, we believe, will create an entirely new healthcare experience for eczema sufferers. And with cutting-edge machine learning and advanced therapeutic techniques, we’re confident that we will eventually make eczema a thing of the past.
If you’re interested in hearing more about our journey and where we are headed, we welcome you to get in touch!
Where Next
In truth, we really are just getting started... Whilst the app has many great features to tackle eczema, there’s more that we have to offer.
We’re currently working hard to add some significant features which, we believe, will create an entirely new healthcare experience for eczema sufferers. And with cutting-edge machine learning and advanced therapeutic techniques, we’re confident that we will eventually make eczema a thing of the past.
If you’re interested in hearing more about our journey and where we are headed, we welcome you to get in touch!
Dr Haroon Ahmad
Dr Haroon Ahmad
Dr Haroon Ahmad
our journal
our journal
our journal
More insights for you.
More insights for you.
More insights for you.
Explore more reflections, guidance, and practical tools to support your growth and well-being.
Explore more reflections, guidance, and practical tools to support your growth and well-being.
Explore more reflections, guidance, and practical tools to support your growth and well-being.
Understand the different ways eczema can present in different skin tones and how to take action to improve inequalities in dermatology.
Understand the different ways eczema can present in different skin tones and how to take action to improve inequalities in dermatology.
Understand the different ways eczema can present in different skin tones and how to take action to improve inequalities in dermatology.
Learn how cold weather affects eczema and discover actionable tips for effective symptom management.
Learn how cold weather affects eczema and discover actionable tips for effective symptom management.
Learn how cold weather affects eczema and discover actionable tips for effective symptom management.
Your questions.
Answered.
Not sure what to expect? These answers might help you feel more confident as you begin.
Didn’t find your answer? Send us a message at
hello@proton-health.com — we’ll respond with care and clarity.
How is this different to traditional dermatology or telehealth apps?
Most telehealth apps are just video calls with doctors who don't know your history, offering templated advice. Traditional dermatology gives you 7 minutes every few months. Symphony is different — it's an AI that learns your complete skin story and provides personalized guidance 24/7, backed by specialists who review your case. Think of it as a personal trainer for your skin, not just another appointment booking app.
How is this different to traditional dermatology or telehealth apps?
Most telehealth apps are just video calls with doctors who don't know your history, offering templated advice. Traditional dermatology gives you 7 minutes every few months. Symphony is different — it's an AI that learns your complete skin story and provides personalized guidance 24/7, backed by specialists who review your case. Think of it as a personal trainer for your skin, not just another appointment booking app.
Which conditions does Symphony support?
Which conditions does Symphony support?
Symphony is built for chronic skin conditions: acne, eczema, psoriasis, and topical steroid withdrawal (TSW). These are the conditions where understanding your triggers matters most — and where the traditional "here's a cream, see you in 3 months" approach fails hardest. If you're dealing with something else, reach out — we're expanding based on what our members need.
Is my data protected?
Is my data protected?
Your data is encrypted, never sold, and never used for advertising. You can export it. You can delete it anytime. Read our full privacy policy below.
Why not just see a dermatologist more frequently?
Why not just see a dermatologist more frequently?
You could — if you could get an appointment, afford the visit, and somehow give them access to absolutely everything that happened between visits. The reality: your dermatologist sees a snapshot. Symphony sees the full picture — what you ate, how you slept, what products you used, how stressed you were — and connects it to how your skin responded. We're not replacing your dermatologist. We're giving them (and you) context they'd never otherwise have.
How do I know if I'm a good candidate?
How do I know if I'm a good candidate?
If you've been dealing with a chronic skin condition and still don't fully understand why your skin flares — you're a good candidate. Symphony works best for people willing to track consistently (a few minutes a day) and who want to understand their patterns, not just treat symptoms. If you're looking for a quick fix or a magic cream recommendation, we're probably not the right fit.
What if I've tried everything already?
What if I've tried everything already?
Then you're exactly who we built this for. "Tried everything" usually means you've tried a lot of products and treatments — but you've never had the tools to see how your skin actually responds to your life. Symphony doesn't give you more things to try. It helps you understand what's already happening — so the next thing you try is actually informed by your data. It knowing instead of guessing.
Is Symphony a replacement for medical advice?
Is Symphony a replacement for medical advice?
Symphony's AI and tracking tools are not a replacement for medical advice — they help you understand patterns in your own data, but they don't diagnose or prescribe.
That said, we know insights alone aren't always enough. That's why our Premium tier includes referrals to specialist dermatology consultations, gut and skin microbiome testing, and comprehensive lab panels — actual specialists who review your Symphony data.
The app gives you context and understanding. When you need clinical expertise, we connect you with professionals who understand your story.
How is Symphony different from apps that scan your face and sell you products?
How is Symphony different from apps that scan your face and sell you products?
Most "AI skincare" apps take a photo, run it through a basic algorithm, and recommend products they get commission on. They're not trying to help you understand your skin — they're trying to sell you things. Symphony doesn't work that way. We analyze your symptoms, lifestyle, stress, diet, and products over time to find patterns unique to you. We don't sell skincare products directly, and our recommendations are based on your data — not affiliate deals.
When we do recommend products, we're checking thousands of products against YOUR specific sensitivities and triggers. The goal is to stop you wasting money, not to add to the pile of half-used bottles under your sink.
Can I cancel anytime?
Can I cancel anytime?
Yes. No contracts, no cancellation fees. If Symphony isn't working for you, you can cancel in a few clicks. We'd rather earn your trust every month than trap you in one.
Your questions.
Answered.
Not sure what to expect? These answers might help you feel more confident as you begin.
How is this different to traditional dermatology or telehealth apps?
Most telehealth apps are just video calls with doctors who don't know your history, offering templated advice. Traditional dermatology gives you 7 minutes every few months. Symphony is different — it's an AI that learns your complete skin story and provides personalized guidance 24/7, backed by specialists who review your case. Think of it as a personal trainer for your skin, not just another appointment booking app.
How is this different to traditional dermatology or telehealth apps?
Most telehealth apps are just video calls with doctors who don't know your history, offering templated advice. Traditional dermatology gives you 7 minutes every few months. Symphony is different — it's an AI that learns your complete skin story and provides personalized guidance 24/7, backed by specialists who review your case. Think of it as a personal trainer for your skin, not just another appointment booking app.
Which conditions does Symphony support?
Which conditions does Symphony support?
Symphony is built for chronic skin conditions: acne, eczema, psoriasis, and topical steroid withdrawal (TSW). These are the conditions where understanding your triggers matters most — and where the traditional "here's a cream, see you in 3 months" approach fails hardest. If you're dealing with something else, reach out — we're expanding based on what our members need.
Is my data protected?
Is my data protected?
Your data is encrypted, never sold, and never used for advertising. You can export it. You can delete it anytime. Read our full privacy policy below.
Why not just see a dermatologist more frequently?
Why not just see a dermatologist more frequently?
You could — if you could get an appointment, afford the visit, and somehow give them access to absolutely everything that happened between visits. The reality: your dermatologist sees a snapshot. Symphony sees the full picture — what you ate, how you slept, what products you used, how stressed you were — and connects it to how your skin responded. We're not replacing your dermatologist. We're giving them (and you) context they'd never otherwise have.
How do I know if I'm a good candidate?
How do I know if I'm a good candidate?
If you've been dealing with a chronic skin condition and still don't fully understand why your skin flares — you're a good candidate. Symphony works best for people willing to track consistently (a few minutes a day) and who want to understand their patterns, not just treat symptoms. If you're looking for a quick fix or a magic cream recommendation, we're probably not the right fit.
What if I've tried everything already?
What if I've tried everything already?
Then you're exactly who we built this for. "Tried everything" usually means you've tried a lot of products and treatments — but you've never had the tools to see how your skin actually responds to your life. Symphony doesn't give you more things to try. It helps you understand what's already happening — so the next thing you try is actually informed by your data. It knowing instead of guessing.
Is Symphony a replacement for medical advice?
Is Symphony a replacement for medical advice?
Symphony's AI and tracking tools are not a replacement for medical advice — they help you understand patterns in your own data, but they don't diagnose or prescribe.
That said, we know insights alone aren't always enough. That's why our Premium tier includes referrals to specialist dermatology consultations, gut and skin microbiome testing, and comprehensive lab panels — actual specialists who review your Symphony data.
The app gives you context and understanding. When you need clinical expertise, we connect you with professionals who understand your story.
How is Symphony different from apps that scan your face and sell you products?
How is Symphony different from apps that scan your face and sell you products?
Most "AI skincare" apps take a photo, run it through a basic algorithm, and recommend products they get commission on. They're not trying to help you understand your skin — they're trying to sell you things. Symphony doesn't work that way. We analyze your symptoms, lifestyle, stress, diet, and products over time to find patterns unique to you. We don't sell skincare products directly, and our recommendations are based on your data — not affiliate deals.
When we do recommend products, we're checking thousands of products against YOUR specific sensitivities and triggers. The goal is to stop you wasting money, not to add to the pile of half-used bottles under your sink.
Can I cancel anytime?
Can I cancel anytime?
Yes. No contracts, no cancellation fees. If Symphony isn't working for you, you can cancel in a few clicks. We'd rather earn your trust every month than trap you in one.
Didn’t find your answer? Send us a message at
hello@proton-health.com — we’ll respond with care and clarity.
Your questions.
Answered.
Not sure what to expect? These answers might help you feel more confident as you begin.
Didn’t find your answer? Send us a message at
hello@proton-health.com — we’ll respond with care and clarity.
How is this different to traditional dermatology or telehealth apps?
Most telehealth apps are just video calls with doctors who don't know your history, offering templated advice. Traditional dermatology gives you 7 minutes every few months. Symphony is different — it's an AI that learns your complete skin story and provides personalized guidance 24/7, backed by specialists who review your case. Think of it as a personal trainer for your skin, not just another appointment booking app.
How is this different to traditional dermatology or telehealth apps?
Most telehealth apps are just video calls with doctors who don't know your history, offering templated advice. Traditional dermatology gives you 7 minutes every few months. Symphony is different — it's an AI that learns your complete skin story and provides personalized guidance 24/7, backed by specialists who review your case. Think of it as a personal trainer for your skin, not just another appointment booking app.
Which conditions does Symphony support?
Which conditions does Symphony support?
Symphony is built for chronic skin conditions: acne, eczema, psoriasis, and topical steroid withdrawal (TSW). These are the conditions where understanding your triggers matters most — and where the traditional "here's a cream, see you in 3 months" approach fails hardest. If you're dealing with something else, reach out — we're expanding based on what our members need.
Is my data protected?
Is my data protected?
Your data is encrypted, never sold, and never used for advertising. You can export it. You can delete it anytime. Read our full privacy policy below.
Why not just see a dermatologist more frequently?
Why not just see a dermatologist more frequently?
You could — if you could get an appointment, afford the visit, and somehow give them access to absolutely everything that happened between visits. The reality: your dermatologist sees a snapshot. Symphony sees the full picture — what you ate, how you slept, what products you used, how stressed you were — and connects it to how your skin responded. We're not replacing your dermatologist. We're giving them (and you) context they'd never otherwise have.
How do I know if I'm a good candidate?
How do I know if I'm a good candidate?
If you've been dealing with a chronic skin condition and still don't fully understand why your skin flares — you're a good candidate. Symphony works best for people willing to track consistently (a few minutes a day) and who want to understand their patterns, not just treat symptoms. If you're looking for a quick fix or a magic cream recommendation, we're probably not the right fit.
What if I've tried everything already?
What if I've tried everything already?
Then you're exactly who we built this for. "Tried everything" usually means you've tried a lot of products and treatments — but you've never had the tools to see how your skin actually responds to your life. Symphony doesn't give you more things to try. It helps you understand what's already happening — so the next thing you try is actually informed by your data. It knowing instead of guessing.
Is Symphony a replacement for medical advice?
Is Symphony a replacement for medical advice?
Symphony's AI and tracking tools are not a replacement for medical advice — they help you understand patterns in your own data, but they don't diagnose or prescribe.
That said, we know insights alone aren't always enough. That's why our Premium tier includes referrals to specialist dermatology consultations, gut and skin microbiome testing, and comprehensive lab panels — actual specialists who review your Symphony data.
The app gives you context and understanding. When you need clinical expertise, we connect you with professionals who understand your story.
How is Symphony different from apps that scan your face and sell you products?
How is Symphony different from apps that scan your face and sell you products?
Most "AI skincare" apps take a photo, run it through a basic algorithm, and recommend products they get commission on. They're not trying to help you understand your skin — they're trying to sell you things. Symphony doesn't work that way. We analyze your symptoms, lifestyle, stress, diet, and products over time to find patterns unique to you. We don't sell skincare products directly, and our recommendations are based on your data — not affiliate deals.
When we do recommend products, we're checking thousands of products against YOUR specific sensitivities and triggers. The goal is to stop you wasting money, not to add to the pile of half-used bottles under your sink.
Can I cancel anytime?
Can I cancel anytime?
Yes. No contracts, no cancellation fees. If Symphony isn't working for you, you can cancel in a few clicks. We'd rather earn your trust every month than trap you in one.