It was simpler back then.
From the Editor
Dr. Schwarzenberger is the former physician editor of DermWorld.
By Kathryn Schwarzenberger, MD, FAAD, February 1, 2025
Skin care in my youth was not a big deal. We washed our face with soap or Noxzema, cleansed our pores with astringent-soaked cotton balls (Sea Breeze was my favorite — to this day I can still recall that distinctive smell of alcohol, camphor, eucalyptus, and clove), and — if we were particularly motivated — used scrubbing granules in a futile attempt to rid ourselves of blackheads. We honestly didn’t put much thought or effort into it, nor do I recall skin care being a hot topic of discussion among my girlfriends. As you’ll see in our cover feature, today’s youth are much more aware of their skin starting at a younger age than ever before, making skin care a topic your preteen patients may ask you about. Even if your tween patients do not ask for advice about skin care, chances are they are hearing about products and practices on social media and from their friends. While we welcome an interest in skin care at all ages, some of our colleagues have observed adverse consequences from tweens overusing multistep skin care regimens or using products containing active ingredients that are better suited for more mature skin. The good news is that there are skin care products created specifically for younger skin. Consider doing some social media homework to see what is popular out there and next time you care for tweens, ask them about their skin care regimen. It may offer a wonderful way to connect with your younger patients! If nothing else, I see that Noxzema and Sea Breeze are still on the market 😊
Medicine is, and always has been, an art based in science, rather than a pure science, and how we communicate what we need to say is often as important as the words we say. Technology has complicated our patient interactions, often imposing a keyboard and screen between us and our patients, either in the room or through virtual visits. While these innovations offer convenience, it is important to recognize the potential impact of these interventions on our doctor-patient relationships and, if needed, make adjustments that ensure we continue to foster strong connections with our patients. Several of our colleagues, one of whom I was lucky enough to learn from early in my career (thank you, Dr. Prose!), graciously share their expertise in this area with us this month. Even if you have an easy time establishing patient rapport, I encourage you to read our feature article. I suspect we can all benefit from their useful advice.
Communication can also affect our risk of one of the more painful aspects of our jobs: malpractice suits. Most of us will, at some time during our careers, face a malpractice claim. Obviously, we should do all we can to help avoid them but making sure you have adequate and appropriate malpractice insurance coverage is essential. In our feature article “Malpractice 101,” we distinguish between common types of malpractice insurance coverage (not knowing the difference can be costly should you change jobs) and identify several clauses that might be added to policies that can significantly affect your coverage costs.
February, the traditional month of love, is upon us. It’s also the month of various other designated special days, including Random Acts of Kindness Day (Feb. 17). January was a tough month for many of our colleagues, especially those living in the Los Angeles area. Our hearts go out to all affected. If you have an opportunity to do good, whatever that looks like, now might be a good time.
