Local Anesthesia Mastery for Dermatology Residents: Core Knowledge and Practical Technique
Local anesthesia is a cornerstone of dermatologic practice. From biopsies and excisions to cosmetic and laser procedures, dermatologists rely on local anesthetics daily. Mastery of anesthetic technique not only improves procedural efficiency but also dramatically enhances the patient experience. Patients may not remember every detail of their diagnosis, but they will remember how a procedure made …
Local anesthesia is a cornerstone of dermatologic practice. From biopsies and excisions to cosmetic and laser procedures, dermatologists rely on local anesthetics daily. Mastery of anesthetic technique not only improves procedural efficiency but also dramatically enhances the patient experience. Patients may not remember every detail of their diagnosis, but they will remember how a procedure made … 
This article was originally published on October 22, 2019, and updated on February 2, 2026, by the Next Steps in Derm Editorial Team to include updated links to recent research on the use of biotin for hair loss, as well as a CME opportunity for clinicians seeking advanced training in hair and scalp disorders.
A full head of hair. This is how I came away from Dr. Heather Woolery-Lloyd’s lectu … 
Welcome to The Roadmap Series: Key Learnings by Residency Year. This first installment, PGY-2 Roadmap: What to Expect in Your First Year of Dermatology Residency, is a concise, practical guide to help new dermatology residents navigate the whirlwind of clinics, didactics, procedures, and consults. Inside you’ll find clear expectations from program directors, tips for mastering dermatologic ter … 
Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) remains one of the most challenging chronic inflammatory diseases seen in dermatology. At the 2025 Skin Of Color Update conference in New York City, Dr. Tiffany Mayo led a case-based discussion on emerging therapies and management strategies for HS, with an emphasis on patients with skin of color.
HS affects between 0.1-4% of the population and is more common in … 
Early and aggressive treatment options are needed to minimize the risk of scarring in lichen sclerosus and lichen planus, which are two of the most common vulvar inflammatory disorders that dermatologists treat. That’s according to Dr. Christina Kraus, director of gynecologic dermatology at the University of California, Irvine. Next Steps in Derm, in partnership with the ODAC Dermatology Confer …