Our Story
Advancing Dermatology — For All Our Futures
Skin is something too easily taken for granted. But the truth is, when we take skin for granted, we’re taking human lives and futures for granted. At Dermatology Foundation, we’ve never taken skin for granted.
Since 1964, we’ve been supporting rising young investigators and working to advance the science.
The DF has awarded more than 2,568 research awards, investing over $88.4 million in dermatologic research with donations from our members, supporters, and volunteers.
This investment in research has been matched with cutting-edge education, making sure dermatologists have what they need to advance care for patients today — and tomorrow.
We’re all in this together — it’s time to save everyone’s skin.
Established by 8 leading dermatologists and scientists with the vision that to move the specialty forward, innovative research must always be supported, as the DF has grown, our commitment has never wavered. As a recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization*, we continue to work together to improve the quality of life of people living with skin disease.
*IRS registration #04-611524
60 years of investing in the advancement of patient care
501(c)(3) charitable organization founded by 8 physicians and scientists
Largest private funder of research in dermatology
Over $88.4 million in awards funded since 1964
Annual Clinical Symposia presents the latest authoritative information for practicing dermatologists
Dermatology Focus quarterly publication communicates current advances in investigative dermatology
Our research awards make a pivotal impact on people’s lives.
Skin research can help untangle clues related to cancers and other diseases.
7 Advancements in Atopic Dermatitis
As far back as the mid-1990s, the DF was funding research into the role of inflammatory pathways in AD ranging from the earliest studies of IL4 signal transduction in AD (1996) to IL1a’s role (2018). Meet seven investigators who have advanced the field in atopic dermatitis research.
Top 5 Research Advancements in Psoriasis Biology and Therapy
The clinical observation of the 1980’s that psoriasis responded to the immunosuppression of cyclosporine generated a groundbreaking paradigm shift in our understanding of the pathogenesis of the disease. Psoriasis as a T-cell mediated immunologic disease became a model from which new clinical and therapeutic discoveries evolved.
When we unite as a community — we affect change.
Advancing knowledge moves the specialty forward for all of us. The work of the DF is possible only with the generous support of our members, volunteers, and sponsors. We are grateful for your past gifts and look forward to partnering with you in the future.
Because of you, the Foundation continued its annual investment in 2024 with more than $2.97 million awarded to 61 promising investigators whose projects hold the key to life-changing treatments.
Together We Are Powerful
We are seasoned dermatology professionals, specialty experts, and nonprofit leaders working to advance our specialty's understanding of disease and treatment and transform the lives of patients. Our foundation staff of non-profit professionals brings more than 80 years of management experience to the table.