Some leaders shape their careers through quiet determination, a clear vision, and a strong commitment to their profession. Consultant Dermatologist Dr. Anjali Mahto is one of them. Over the past decade, she has built a thriving clinic while staying true to her principles - blending dermatology, aesthetics, and wellness in a way that aligns with her expertise and values.
Her journey, from working as a private dermatology associate at the Cadogan Clinic to establishing Self London, reflects years of experience, thoughtful planning, and a patient-first approach. Anjali has also cultivated a strong professional presence, using her platform to provide honest, science-backed skincare advice.
We spoke with Anjali about her transition from clinician to business owner, the lessons she’s learned along the way, and how staying true to her purpose has shaped her approach to leadership.
When Self London launched in March 2023, it wasn’t just about opening a new clinic—it was about creating a space that prioritised both clinical excellence and patient wellbeing. The design reflects this philosophy, with a calm, welcoming atmosphere that aligns with her approach to skin health. A Sanskrit sign at its centre reads: “I am whole, I am complete”—a message that reinforces the clinic’s focus on confidence and self-acceptance.
For Anjali, skincare extends beyond aesthetics; it plays a role in a person’s overall wellbeing. Having experienced acne firsthand, she understands the emotional and psychological impact of skin conditions, which is why her practice focuses on ethical, results-driven dermatology. Rather than quick fixes, she prioritises treatments that offer meaningful, long-term improvements.
Her leadership lesson? “Know exactly what you stand for, and let that guide every decision.”
True leaders recognise that success isn’t achieved alone - it’s about surrounding yourself with the best people. Despite being a qualified yoga instructor and holding a diploma in nutrition, Anjali has been intentional about not trying to do everything herself. Instead, she has carefully built a specialist team, ensuring that every patient at Self London receives expert-led care.
The Self London Team Includes:
Her approach is simple: If it doesn’t elevate patient outcomes, it’s not pursued. Like Olympic rower Ben Hunt-Davis, who only ever asked one question, “Will it make the boat go faster?”, Anjali applies that same filter - “Will it improve skin health or make the patient more comfortable in their own skin?”
Anjali also speaks highly of the importance of operational support. Her husband, Nik, is her business partner, overseeing the day-to-day operations so that she can focus on what she does best - clinical excellence, vision, and patient care.
Her leadership takeaway? “The right team will elevate your clinic, your patient outcomes, and your long-term success.”
Integrity is a word that gets used often in business, but Anjali truly lives by it. Over the years, she has built a reputation for honest, evidence-based practice, and protecting that trust is non-negotiable —even when it means making difficult decisions
Like many clinic owners, she didn’t initially set out to be an entrepreneur. However, she has embraced the business side of running a clinic by investing in her own development, working with a mentor, and continuously learning about strategy and leadership.
When asked how she stays confident in her decisions, her response was straightforward:
“I just back myself. I know I’ve put in the work, I’ve built a brand people trust, and I have something unique to bring to the table—so I knew I could make it work.”
Her leadership insight? “If you don’t back yourself, no one else will.”
One area where Anjali has made a significant impact is in the treatment of scarring, a notoriously challenging condition. She has developed a multi-layered protocol that combines:
She recently shared her expertise at IMCAS, highlighting advancements in scarring treatments. Her approach is not about following trends or aligning with specific brands; rather, it’s about continuously refining techniques to achieve better patient outcomes.
Her leadership takeaway? “Complacency is the enemy of excellence. Always be testing, learning, and evolving.”
Anjali’s story is an example of purpose-driven leadership in aesthetics and dermatology. By staying committed to clinical excellence, ethical practice, and patient-first care, she has built a business that reflects her values. Her journey serves as a reminder that success isn’t just about growth - it’s about staying aligned with what truly matters.
