About Face

With summer unofficially over, consumers are starting to take stock of the damage the sun has done to their skin – and there are ever more new retailers looking to help them in what is a rapidly expanding category and opportunity.

Despite strong presences in department stores, Sephora and Ulta, manufacturers also are opening individual boutiques to better showcase their lines, and add services. The newest case in point: Murad. The skincare line founded by Dr. Howard Murad will celebrate its 25^th anniversary by opening its first boutique next month on West 3^rd Street in Los Angeles. In addition to offering Murad’s products, the store will offer services and activities including skin consultations and a high-definition camera to measure flaws (yeah, we all look forward to that one).