Meet the Skin Specialist
Dr. Berson is a founding board member of the American Acne and Rosacea Society, among other notable positions she holds as a leader in the field of dermatology. She is currently Assistant Professor, Department of Dermatology, Weill Medical College of Cornell University. She has conducted clinical trials and published articles dealing with the treatment of acne, rosacea and other dermatological topics.
What is the Women’s Dermatologic Society? What does the Society mean to you and how are you personally involved?
WDS is a society of dermatologists, mostly women, who help promote leadership and mentoring for other dermatologists. This is to help women achieve high levels within organized, academic medicine. We are also a service-oriented society, promoting and actively participating in various community-service outreach events.
What is your favorite high-tech treatment?
Injecting with neurotoxins is probably my favorite. It’s easy, safe, and patients see results fairly fast. They can make a dramatic difference. Fillers, light and laser treatments, and chemical peels are also wonderful.
What is your favorite drugstore skincare product? Prestige product?
It is hard to pick just one. I love Anthelios by LaRoche Posay for sun protection, Neutrogena’s Oil Free Acne Wash, and Olay’s ProX line.
What steps can women take every day for younger-looking skin?
First and foremost, daily use of broad spectrum sun protection is important. Sunscreens are the best anti-aging creams! Avoiding too much sun and cigarette smoke is also important. Other than that, gentle cleansing, emollients to keep the skin smooth, and prescription retinoids or over-the-counter products containing retinol, antioxidants or anti-inflammatories can also improve the appearance, tone and texture of the skin.
Which sunscreens do you favor and why?
I prefer those with broad spectrum protection, which means they protect against the “tanning”, or “aging” rays (UVA) as well as the burning rays (UVB). The first to be approved was Anthelios, containing Mexoryl. Others include Neutrogena and Aveeno, which contain Helioplex, and MD SolarSciences, which contain zinc and titanium dioxide.
What are the most common skin questions/concerns your patients bring to you and how do you address them?
Most concerns are about “anti-aging” are wrinkles, discoloration, blotchiness, uneven tone and texture, dryness and roughness. Other concerns include, poriness, acne breakouts and redness.
I usually recommend a combination approach, including OTC as well as prescription products, in combination with low-downtime procedures in the office. These are tailored for each patient’s concerns, clinical presentation and skin type.
How did you decide to become a dermatologist?
I suffered from acne as a teen, I always knew I wanted to become a physician, and realized during my dermatology elective that dermatology allows one to visualize the complaint as well as treat patients of all ages and both sexes. It certainly combined my interest in both medicine and art (“pattern recognition”).
What’s in your bag?
Many lip glosses and lipsticks with different shades of pink and coral, hand cream samples, sunblock samples, camouflage cream, sugar free mints and gum, floss, comb, glasses, Blackberry.
What’s your favorite bag?
Chanel distressed leather navy blue hobo bag.
Are you a mom?
Yes, I have two wonderful kids, a 19 year old daughter and 23 year old son!
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