The 2026 South Beach Symposium (SBS) and Masters of Pediatric Dermatology (MOPD) in Miami Beach may have come to a close, but their impact continues to resonate with the attendees and industry partners who gathered to expand their knowledge and explore new pathways forward.
Across three exceptional days of high-impact education, collaboration, and forward-thinking discussion, SBS and MOPD 2026 delivered timely insights and practical takeaways that clinicians can immediately apply in practice.
SBS: Innovation, Education, and Energy
SBS 2026 returned for its 24th year, offering attendees a blend of rigorous education and elevated experience. From sunrise yoga and dynamic live sessions to meaningful networking opportunities and even a surprise puppy cuddle break, SBS delivered an atmosphere that balanced science with community connection, reinforcing its position as one of dermatology’s premier meetings.
Christopher G. Bunick, MD, PhD, associate professor of dermatology at Yale University School of Medicine and Medical Dermatology Chair of SBS, welcomed attendees on day one and set the tone for a forward-looking program before diving into his session on bispecific biologics. Alongside Aesthetic Dermatology Chairs Michael Gold, MD, and David J. Goldberg, MD, JD, and a distinguished lineup of top-tier experts, the program explored today’s most relevant topics in medical and aesthetic dermatology.
The momentum never slowed, with standout sessions, a vibrant exhibit hall, exciting device demonstrations, and the ever-popular live patient injection sessions, where master injectors demonstrated technique, anatomy, and clinical decision-making step by step.
MOPD: Advancing Pediatric Dermatology
Delivering another year of advanced pediatric dermatology education, MOPD — led by founder Lawrence A. Schachner, MD — once again provided the tools, updates, and clinical insights today’s pediatric dermatology providers need to deliver optimal care to their young patients.
MOPD reinforced its reputation as an essential educational forum, with sessions spanning teen skin health, infections, rare diseases, procedural interventions, and more. These high-impact discussions delivered updates across pediatric inflammatory and genetic conditions, from common concerns to complex diagnoses, with faculty sharing practical pearls and real-world strategies to enhance patient outcomes.
Included in this year’s focused programming was a special spotlight on the disease state of the year, epidermolysis bullosa (EB). Dedicated discussions on recessive dystrophic EB (RDEB) and emerging therapeutic strategies were led by Anna Bruckner, MD, and Katherine Doernbrack, MSN, RN, CPNP-PC.
The highly anticipated ‘Ask the Audience’ session was a highlight, creating space for collaboration, shared clinical experiences, and thoughtful discussion — a fitting close to the MOPD program.
Shaping What’s Next
The future of aesthetics took center stage in conversations on regeneration and longevity led by keynote Doris J. Day, MD. Additional discussions explored social media and reputation management, genetic testing in pediatric dermatology, and the expanding role of technology and AI in clinical practice — highlighting emerging trends and offering practical guidance for today’s providers navigating a rapidly evolving landscape.
RISE: Investing in the Next Generation
SBS and MOPD 2026 also marked the launch of the RISE (Resident Innovation and Supplemental Education) Program, an exclusive opportunity designed for residents and early-career dermatologists. This two-day immersive experience provided participants with direct engagement alongside leaders in the field, including an intimate roundtable dinner and a cadaver-based aesthetics workshop led by expert plastic surgeon Z. Paul Lorenc, MD.
RISE underscored the meetings’ commitment to mentorship, innovation, and preparing the next generation of dermatology leaders.
The Exhibit Hall Experience
SBS and MOPD would not be complete without the energy of their industry partners and exhibitors. From sponsored receptions to hands-on device demonstrations, the exhibit hall once again served as a hub of innovation and connection. Leading companies showcased their latest products, technologies, and solutions to an engaged audience eager to bring new tools back to their practices.
Looking Back (and Ahead)
Bringing together leaders in medical and aesthetic dermatology in one vibrant location created an atmosphere of shared energy, inspiration, and innovation. SBS and MOPD 2026 delivered top-tier education, hands-on learning, and meaningful collaboration across the dermatology community — along with a few memorable puppy cuddles.
As planning begins for 2027, the mission remains clear: to energize and empower attendees, challenge their thinking, sharpen their skills, and equip them with the tools to thrive in this ever evolving and dynamic industry. Mark your calendars — we look forward to seeing you next year.
