January 28-31, 2026
The Ritz-Carlton | Naples, Florida
AN AUTHORITATIVE, PEER-REVIEWED CME PROGRAM
Dermatology Focus™ - The Winter Edition
Meet Dr. Ncoza Dlova, dermatologist, trailblazer, and advocate for skin of color — a pioneer in mentorship for Black dermatologists in South Africa. From becoming the first Black African dean at UKZN to leading transformative research on CCCA and spearheading global efforts against skin lightening, her impact is reshaping dermatology across Africa.
A foundational discovery. A global shift in EB research. A career that bridged basic science, clinical care, academic leadership, and biotech innovation. Dr. Gene Bauer, recipient of the DF’s 2025 Discovery Honorary Award, changed the course of epidermolysis bullosa research in 1988, and his influence continues across dermatology and biotechnology today.
Dr. Vikash Oza highlights how many cases of atopic dermatitis begin in infancy, with early phenotypes influencing long-term allergic risk. He underscores the importance of recognizing age-specific patterns, applying evidence-based topical and systemic therapies, and using preventive strategies that may help limit progression.
Every practicing dermatologist—and their patients—benefit from new treatments unlocked by research.
Since 1964, the Dermatology Foundation has invested in groundbreaking research leading to new knowledge, treatments, and cures. In 2025, the Foundation continued its investment and awarded over $3.3 million in research funding. This accomplishment is made possible with the ongoing support of our dedicated members, corporate partners, and friends. Their generosity sustains this advancement of patient care.
The Potential of Investigators is Infinite
The Dermatology Foundation invests in early and mid-career researchers with novel ideas and the potential to achieve scientific breakthroughs that lead to new treatments and cures. Our current award recipients are uncovering new knowledge about the topics below, which represent a sample of the Foundation's research portfolio. As science evolves, the potential for more breakthrough research in dermatology expands—and the DF is there to support each step forward.
- Acne and Rosacea
- Allergy
- Atopic Dermatitis
- Auto-immunity
- Blistering Diseases
- Carcinogenesis and Cancer Genetics
- Chemoprevention
- Clinical Trial / Therapeutics
- Contact Dermatitis
- Cutaneous Lymphoma
- Connective Tissue Disease
- Epidemiology and Public Health
- Epidermal Structure and Barrier Function
- Genetic Diseases, Gene Regulation and Gene Therapy
- Growth Factors, Cell Adhesion and Matrix Biology
- Hair Disorders
- Healthcare Delivery
- Immunity and Lymphocyte Biology
- Immunotherapy
- Infectious Disease
- Inflammation
- Melanoma
- Microbiology
- Microbiome
- Mohs Surgery
- Mouse Models
- Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer
- Pediatric Dermatology
- Pharmacology and Drug Development
- Photobiology
- Pigmentation and Melanocyte Biology
- Psoriasis
- Scar
- Skin and Hair Developmental Biology
- Skin of Color
- Stem Cell
- Tissue Regeneration and Wound Healing
- Tumor Immunology
- Vitiligo / Pigmentation
- Women’s Health
There is no such thing as a small contribution; every action creates impact.
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