Together we’re changing tomorrow, today.

For 60 years we’ve made possibilities into realities.

Advance discovery. Advance healing.

Stories from our community show how far we’ve come and how far we can go.

Dermatology is crucial to human health and life.

Together we’re supporting the research and education that’s needed today —  and tomorrow. 

The solution to every disease and condition in dermatology is out there, just waiting to be discovered.

SMART LENS (7)

 

  January 28-31, 2026

  The Ritz-Carlton | Naples, Florida

 

   AN AUTHORITATIVE, PEER-REVIEWED MEDICAL EDUCATION PROGRAM

Dermatology Focus™ - The Fall Edition

Dr. Sewon Kang believes that sustaining dermatology’s future requires intentional investment in young faculty—ensuring the field remains both science-driven and patient-centered. He emphasizes that the Dermatology Foundation’s early-career funding not only helps young investigators thrive but also fuels the innovation essential to the specialty’s progress.

For more than 35 years, Dr. Judith Domínguez-Cherit has advanced the diagnosis and treatment of nail diseases, particularly melanonychia and subungual melanoma. Her work is transforming clinical practice in Latin America and beyond.  

Dr. James Taylor, the 2025 recipient of the DF Practitioner of the Year Award, Dr. James Taylor, reflects on his pioneering work in occupational dermatology, landmark studies on toxic exposures, and ongoing leadership in mentoring, patient safety, and the future role of AI in medicine.

Read the Issue

Attention Investigators & Innovators

Drive your path to discovery with the research opportunities featured below.

Johnson & Johnson Early Career Innovator Award

The Sanofi-Regeneron Mechanisms of Type 2 Inflammation Award

The DF Skin of Color Society (SOCS) Collaborative Award (also sponsored by Sanofi-Regeneron)

Applications for the Early Career Innovator and Mid-career Awards are now open and will close at midnight (CT) December 1, 2025.

Career Development Award (CDA) renewals also close at midnight (CT) December 1, 2025.

Scientist working in the laboratory.
Scientist working in the laboratory.
Dr. Callender (left) receives the Clark W. Finnerud award from DF President Dr. Janet Fairley (right). The award celebrates an individual who blends a clinical practice with writing and teaching dermatology.
Dr. Callender (left) receives the Clark W. Finnerud award from DF President Dr. Janet Fairley (right). The award celebrates an individual who blends a clinical practice with writing and teaching dermatology.

Nominate a Leader in Dermatology

There’s still time to recognize a colleague who exemplifies excellence in dermatology. Nominate a devoted clinician, innovative educator, or inspiring mentor for a 2026 DF Honorary Award. Recipients will be announced in January 2026 and honored at the Annual Meeting in March 2026 in Denver, Colorado.

Submit nomination letters to Erica Gardner by October 26, 2025.

Award Descriptions and Nomination Instructions

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.

Donate Today (2)
Donate Today (7)
Donate Today (8)
Donate Today (10)

The power of research and science fuels the future of dermatology.

Meet the Researchers

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.

There is no such thing as a small contribution; every action creates impact.

Donate Now

No dermatologist wants to be practicing the same medicine at the end of their career as they were at the beginning. The DF is critical to our collective future. It has continuously supported promising investigators who have brought us new knowledge and better tools.”

Janet A. Fairley, MD

President, Dermatology Foundation
Janet A. Fairley, M.D.
Janet A. Fairley, M.D.

Stay Connected

Receive monthly updates on the people and events shaping the future of dermatology.