Since 1997, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) has designated November as National Healthy Skin Month — an annual reminder for dermatology professionals to refocus on proactive, patient-centered care. In a specialty where innovation and aesthetics often take the spotlight, this month offers an opportunity to return to fundamentals: prevention, education, and consistency.
Healthy skin starts long before the first in-office procedure. It’s the result of daily habits, barrier support, and a clear understanding of the science behind skin health. As clinicians, emphasizing education and tailored skincare routines empowers patients to take ownership of their skin health and strengthens the foundation for future treatments.
Education as the Cornerstone
Patient education remains one of dermatology’s most powerful tools. When patients understand the “why” behind a regimen, adherence improves. By educating patients, dermatologists can help them tailor their daily routines with evidence-supported ingredients and simple, effective steps — recommending products appropriate for their skin type and reinforcing the importance of consistency.
As board-certified dermatologist Rajani Katta, MD, FAAD, explains, effective routines should be Adjustable, Consistent, and Tailored (ACT):
“For a skin care routine to meet your needs, it must be adjustable,” she says. “For example, you may need a moisturizer during the winter when the air tends to be dry. You’ll also need to adjust your skin care with the passing years. If a product you chose irritates your skin, you’ll want to stop using it right away.”
Dr. Katta adds that encouraging patients to stay consistent is equally vital. As most products require at least 30 days to show measurable results, it’s important that patients stick to the regimen. When patients view their dermatologist as a partner in this process, it helps establish trust and long-term engagement in care.
The Power of Prevention
Prevention remains central to healthy skin. Regular sunscreen use, early intervention for chronic conditions, and annual skin exams can significantly improve patient outcomes and satisfaction. Dermatologists can reinforce the AAD’s sun safety guidelines — including choosing shade when possible, wearing protective clothing, and applying broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily.
Together with personalizing recommendations based on skin type, age, and lifestyle factors, dermatologists can help patients develop a prevention-first mindset that minimizes risk and enhances long-term results.
Early Detection and Intervention
Early skin checks remain one of the simplest yet most impactful tools for improving patient outcomes and should form part of every patient’s treatment plan. With one in five Americans expected to develop skin cancer in their lifetime, integrating full-body exams and self-check education into routine care is essential. Encouraging patients to seek professional evaluation for suspicious lesions reinforces the importance of vigilance and early detection.
Clinical Takeaways: Healthy Skin Habits to Reinforce
DO: Recommend broad-spectrum, water-resistant, SPF 30+ sunscreen daily to slow aging and prevent skin cancer.
DON’T: Overlook lifestyle factors — smoking and stress can accelerate aging and trigger inflammatory skin diseases.
DO: Encourage regular self-exams and in-office skin checks.
DON’T: Minimize the importance of patient adherence — small, consistent routines drive better long-term outcomes.
DO: Help patients select dermatologist-tested products suited to their skin type and condition.
DON’T: Neglect follow-up. Ongoing monitoring is key to maintaining patient engagement and long-term skin health.
DO: Reinforce the dangers of tanning beds. UV exposure significantly increases the risk of skin cancer and premature aging.
The Bottom Line
National Healthy Skin Month is more than an awareness initiative — it’s an opportunity to reinforce dermatology’s preventive and educational mission. As skin care experts, dermatologists are uniquely positioned to promote lifelong skin health, elevate awareness, and ensure that patients take proactive steps toward positive, lasting outcomes.
