By Business & Finance 
Pictured (L-R): Caitriona Ryan and Niki Ralph
Co-founders of Institute of Dermatologists, Caitriona Ryan and Niki Ralph, discuss their vision to transform skin health in Ireland through innovation, collaboration and integrity — from pioneering patient-centred care to building Ireland’s first integrated dermatology ecosystem.
By Youssef Fathalli
What inspired you to start your company?
We were inspired by a shared belief that dermatology in Ireland could be delivered in a more collaborative, innovative and patient-centred way. Having trained in different health systems, including the United States, we saw how a group model created continuity, peer review and a culture of excellence. We wanted to build Ireland’s first integrated skin health ecosystem, combining medical, surgical, aesthetic and preventative care under one roof, with the patient always at the centre.
What are your main priorities and goals in your role?
Our top priority is ensuring that our patients receive the highest standard of care, rooted in evidence and compassion. Alongside this, we want to create an environment where our team feels inspired, supported and proud of what we are building together. Strategically, our goals are to scale our model across Ireland and internationally, while expanding into skin cancer surgery and longevity science, always without losing sight of quality, integrity and impact.
How do you keep your team motivated?
We believe motivation comes from purpose and belonging. We share our vision with our team openly, involve them in decision-making, celebrate their achievements and provide opportunities for growth. Above all, we cultivate a culture of respect, support and joy in our workplace so that people feel energised to bring their best selves to work every day.
What are the challenges facing the industry going forward?
Dermatology faces enormous demand pressures. Waiting lists are long, and there is a shortage of specialists globally. At the same time, the sector is being reshaped by the rise of misinformation in skincare, the growing dominance of private equity in healthcare, and the urgent need for innovation in both treatment and patient access. Balancing patient safety with innovation will be the challenge of the next decade.
Are there any major changes you would like to see in your sector?
We would like to see greater integration between medical and aesthetic dermatology, with the focus firmly on long-term skin health rather than quick fixes. We also want to see clinical leadership maintained in healthcare delivery, rather than ceding control to investment models that can sometimes erode standards. Finally, we would like dermatology in Ireland to become a hub for clinical trials and innovation, so that patients here can access treatments at the very forefront of science
What’s the best advice you’ve been given in business?
Only scale what is already working exceptionally well. It is simple advice but it has guided us to focus our energy where we can create real impact, rather than diluting our efforts across too many initiatives.
What advice would you give to others starting out in business?
Be clear on your vision and values from the outset, and let them guide every decision you make. Surround yourself with people who share your integrity and work ethic, because no business is built alone. And remember that setbacks are part of the journey — resilience and adaptability matter as much as strategy.
What have been your highlights in business over the past year?
We have doubled the size of our clinic, expanded our team to thirteen consultant dermatologists and twenty-four staff, and delivered over thirty-eight thousand patient visits. We have launched ID Formulas, our science-led supplement line, and finalised plans for Surgical Institute Dublin, Ireland’s first private skin cancer surgery centre. Winning awards and being shortlisted for the 2025 EY Entrepreneur of the Year programme has been deeply humbling, but the true highlight is seeing our vision take shape with an extraordinary team beside us.
What does being part of the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year community mean to you, and how important is networking and connection to your journey as a business leader?
Being part of the EOY community is both an honour and a privilege. It allows us to learn from entrepreneurs across every sector, to share ideas, and to see first-hand the creativity and resilience that drives Ireland’s business community. Networking is not just about opportunity — it is about connection, inspiration and support, which are vital for any entrepreneur navigating growth and challenge.
What is the best book you’ve ever read (non-business) and why?
Caitriona: My favourite book was The Heart’s Invisible Furies by John Boyne – an incredibly insightful book about identity, packed full of empathy, humour and humanity.
Niki: My favourite book (which I read in one day as I couldn’t put it down) is Poor by Katriona O’Sullivan because it’s so honest and powerful. Her story is raw and real, and it made me think deeply about poverty, resilience, and how people can rise above the toughest circumstances.
What is your favourite hobby and why?
We have recently started going to the gym together at 6.15am before work, training for Tryka and Hyrox events alongside some of our staff. It has been one of the most enjoyable and energising things we have done as it builds fitness, camaraderie and focus, and we love starting the day as a team.
What is your mantra for life?
Excellence with integrity. For us, success is not just about what we achieve but how we achieve it, with vision, purpose and the determination to make a lasting difference in people’s lives.
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