Welcome to "Where Are They Now?" , a series that follows the journey of individuals who have attended one of our courses. We explore how they have applied the skills and knowledge gained with us in their professional and personal lives. We believe that learning is a lifelong journey, and we take pride in knowing that our program has positively impacted the lives of our attendees. Megan Gullickson Introducing Megan, the newest addition to our "Where Are They Now?" series. Megan participated in our Cadaver Course in the morning and then did a half-day training with Lamija, focusing on full-facial rejuvenation. What Were You Doing Before You Got Into Aesthetics? My healthcare career started very early. I worked as a receptionist in an outpatient oncology clinic at the age of 16. By the time I was 21, I had progressed into my nursing profession. Over the last 17 years, my experience has evolved through multiple acute and ambulatory nursing care areas. I have always been eager for more and love to learn. This passion eventually led me to a Clinical Informatics Nurse role. Shortly after that, I began my career in aesthetics. What Inspired You to Pursue a Career in Aesthetics? As a teen, I struggled with severe cystic acne. I remember my mom taking me to the dermatologist multiple times for skin care treatments and regimens. However, I never believed these would help me regain my confidence. This experience has always resonated with me. Instilling beauty back into your patient can be one of the most rewarding experiences. After receiving aesthetic treatments myself, I felt the pull to expand my skillset. My passion for beauty, health, and wellness aligned perfectly with the field of aesthetic medicine, and I have not looked back. Why Did You Choose The Confidence Lab's Training Program? I gravitated toward The Confidence Lab because they offered something different from typical aesthetic training. The small, intimate hands-on setting, combined with providers who have exceptional anatomy knowledge and a true commitment to safety, drew me in. Additionally, I have subscribed to Rana's Patreon for the last year. I found the content very educational, but I also love the fun, transparent, and approachable presence of The Confidence Team. What Is Your Favorite Aspect of Working in the Field of Aesthetics? My favorite aspects of working in aesthetics are twofold: building confidence and developing relationships. Watching someone's confidence transform truly improves a patient's quality of life on countless levels. That is extremely rewarding for me. I also love the honest, genuine relationships I create with patients, as well as those that have developed among my peers. Many of these relationships have blossomed into amazing friendships and support systems. What Are You Doing Now? I am currently working at Wells Wellness and Aesthetics as a Nurse Injector in Helena, Montana. Additionally, I hold a Clinical Informatics Nurse position at our local community hospital. Over the last several years, I have perfected my craft to offer natural facial balancing, laser treatments, skin health, and wellness services. What Advice Would You Give to Those Considering a Career in This Field? Stay humble, stay honest, and be eager to learn. Lastly, find the people who align with your philosophy. They will be the ones in your corner, watching you grow and supporting your passion. The Journey of Continuous Learning In the ever-evolving field of aesthetics, continuous learning is essential. Each course I attended has equipped me with new skills and insights. I encourage everyone to embrace this journey. Building a Supportive Community One of the most significant aspects of my career has been the community I’ve built. Surrounding myself with like-minded professionals has been invaluable. We share knowledge, experiences, and support one another. The Impact of Aesthetic Treatments The impact of aesthetic treatments goes beyond physical appearance. They can significantly enhance a person's self-esteem and overall well-being. I have witnessed transformations that have changed lives. Final Thoughts As I reflect on my journey, I am grateful for the opportunities I have had. The Confidence Lab has played a crucial role in shaping my career. I look forward to continuing my journey in aesthetics and helping others along the way. --- I hope this inspires you to pursue your passion in aesthetics. Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination.

Welcome to "Where Are They Now?" , a series that follows the journey of individuals who have attended one of our courses and how they have applied the skills and knowledge gained with us in their professional and personal lives. We believe that learning is a lifelong journey, and we take pride in knowing that our program has had a positive impact on the lives of our attendees. Laura Gary, MSN RN Introducing Laura Gary, the newest addition to our "Where Are They Now?" series. Laura participated in multiple trainings covering tox, filler, and Sculptra. What Were You Doing Before You Got Into Aesthetics? Before aesthetics, I spent my career in pediatric critical care, education, and nursing leadership. I worked as a bedside PICU nurse, a nurse educator, and a nurse leader. While I learned so much in these roles, I found that the further I climbed in leadership, the more I missed direct patient interaction. I longed for the joy of helping people one-on-one. What Inspired You to Pursue a Career in Aesthetics? I started networking with nursing friends to explore life beyond hospital walls. I shadowed colleagues who ran med spas and connected with nurses in tech and other entrepreneurial roles. I discovered how aesthetics blended my love for healthcare, technical skill, and business. At first, I doubted if I "fit" into the industry. I wear tennis shoes and leggings most days! But The Confidence Lab made me realize there's space for everyone in aesthetics. Confidence is truly the key. Why Did You Choose The Confidence Lab's Training Program? When I decided to enter the aesthetics field, I wanted a training program that taught exceptional technique and fostered a supportive learning environment. The Confidence Lab's training program came highly recommended. It was everything I hoped for—and more! I loved the perfect mix of didactic learning and hands-on aesthetic training. The Confidence Lab's team was warm, welcoming, and approachable. No question was ever "too silly" for a new injector to ask. They opened their doors, shared their knowledge, and even after my training, they've continued to support me. Over time, I've trained there for tox, filler, and Sculptra. Every experience has been invaluable. What Is Your Favorite Aspect of Working in the Field of Aesthetics? My favorite part of aesthetics is the balance of technical skill, artistry, and patient connection. I love educating clients, addressing their concerns, and seeing their joy when they look in the mirror after a treatment. There's nothing quite like that "wow" moment. What Are You Doing Now? In 2024, I launched Simply You, Nurse Aesthetics as a mobile clinic. In February 2025, I opened my storefront in my hometown of Prior Lake, MN. I currently see patients in the evenings and on weekends while still working full-time at the hospital. However, in November 2025, I will officially transition to running Simply You full-time! Over the last year, I've expanded from offering tox alone to a wide range of injectables and skin treatments. I'm also pursuing my FNP, set to graduate in November 2026. What Advice Would You Give to Those Considering a Career in This Field? If you're considering a career in aesthetics, shadow other injectors and ask plenty of questions. I would be happy to be that person for you if you are looking for a connection! I believe collaboration in this industry is key. Also, if you're starting your own business, set up your business systems—EMR, policies, contracts, and more—before training. I spent five months preparing before launching in June 2024. This preparation allowed me to start practicing right away without losing momentum. The Journey Ahead Aesthetics has been the most rewarding career shift I've ever made. I'm grateful every day for the training, mentorship, and confidence The Confidence Lab helped me build. Embracing Change Change can be daunting, but it often leads to incredible opportunities. I encourage you to embrace the journey ahead. Whether you're just starting or are already on your path, remember that every step counts. Building a Community As we grow in this field, let’s remember the importance of community. Sharing experiences, challenges, and successes can foster a supportive environment. Together, we can elevate the standards of aesthetics and ensure patient safety. Conclusion In conclusion, my journey in aesthetics has been transformative. I look forward to continuing to learn and grow in this field. I hope my story inspires you to take that leap of faith and pursue your passion. Remember, confidence is key, and there’s a place for everyone in this vibrant industry. ---wix---

Our very own Olivia Kirkpatrick was recently profiled in Bold Journey . This publication celebrates individuals' lives to share wisdom through storytelling. Their features on resilience, productivity, mental health, leadership, and confidence align perfectly with everything that Olivia is all about. Kudos to you, Olivia! You can read the whole article here -- but here's our favorite snippet from the article. Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these? Tenacity, Ambition, and Integrity. My piece of advice is that it doesn't matter how smart you are, it matters how hard you work. Hard work and tenacity outworks intelligence all day. So does integrity. Never compromise your morals and don't take shortcuts - you get what you deserve in life. Always rise above and don't take anything personal.

We're heading to Toronto for The Canadian Aesthetics Expo (CAMA) conference and couldn't be more excited! This will be my third year attending, and, for the second year in a row, our team has been invited to speak. This year we'll be talking about one of our favorite topics: Team building. It's a real honor to return and even more meaningful to do it as a team from The Confidence Bar. Do we get nervous presenting in front of a large international audience? Heck yes. But every year our team sets an internal focus and word of the year. Last year's focus? Presentation skills. Our word of the year? Elevate. We took that and ran with it, pushed ourselves out of our comfort zones, and delivered a talk we were proud of which led to the invitation to return again this year. We quietly gave ourselves a pat on the back and got back to work. We're a beautifully mixed bag of personalities at The Confidence Bar. While we're collaborative in our approach to kind, safe, and natural aesthetics, we're polar opposites in many other ways and that's exactly why it works. A little of this, a little of that. It creates a dynamic, honest, and surprisingly seamless collaboration (most of the time). The Hype Squad of Aesthetics This year, five of our team members (The "Hype Squad" of Aesthetics) will take the stage at CAMA . We'll be sharing our wins, our missteps, and the messy middle where most of the magic really happens. If there's one thing we're known for, it's transparency. We won't pretend everything behind the scenes is picture-perfect... because our doors aren't closed. You'll hear what's working for us and what absolutely isn't and the honest truth is what people love to hear. (Psst... use code RANA2025 for 10% off your 4 day ticket). Beyond the learning and the presenting, these conferences are also a chance to connect as a team, recharge, and meet fellow aesthetic professionals. We genuinely enjoy spending time together and we're equally excited to meet other peers. I can't wait to take the stage alongside Lauren , Lamija , Olivia , and Angie . This year's focus is facial anatomy and the word of the year is collaboration. If you see us there, come say hi! We'll be the loud ones because our babies are at home with their dads and we have wine chilling already. Hope to see you all there, Rana Day 1 September 25 : Come and listen to us—your hype squad for confidence & aesthetics Canadian Aesthetics Expo September 25-28, 2025 Metro Toronto Convention Centre, Toronto ON 20+ Speakers | 50+ Exhibitors | 10+ Masterclasses | 17 CMES Four Day Pass Includes: Day 1: Business Track Day Day 2: Cadaver Lab Days 3 & 4: Main Conference Days Use Code RANA2025 for 10% off for all 4 days Tickets Available Here

Welcome to "Where Are They Now?", a series that follows the journey of individuals who have attended one of our courses and how they have applied the skills and knowledge gained with us in their professional and personal lives. We believe that learning is a lifelong journey, and we take pride in knowing that our program has had a positive impact on the lives of our attendees. Bridget Casey Introducing Bridget the newest addition to our "Where Are They Now?" series. What were you doing before you got into aesthetics? My background includes surgery and dermatology. I worked as a surgical nurse, primarily assisting in orthopedic and plastic surgery cases while also rotating through various other specialty surgeries. I later became a nurse practitioner in dermatology and developed a strong interest in aesthetics. However, aesthetic treatments were not performed regularly at my clinic, which left me eager to pursue the aesthetic field fully. What inspired you to pursue a career in aesthetics? I love working with my hands and making people feel good. The idea of "happy medicine" excited me. I saw how even a single aesthetic treatment could boost someone's confidence. That small glimpse sparked my passion and ultimately led me to pursue aesthetics as my fill-time career. Why did you choose The Confidence Lab's training program? I researched training programs across the country and Rana and her team at The Confidence Lab stood out with their creative, fun, and welcoming environment. I took a leap of faith and traveled to Chicago -- and I'm so glad I did. I gained a solid foundation that allowed me to grow with confidence in the aesthetic field. What is your favorite aspect of working in the field of aesthetics? I love helping people feel more confident and radiant. Seeing someone leave with a smile and a glow is incredibly rewarding -- it's why I call this happy medicine. What are you doing now? I'm a nurse practitioner based in Florida, fully immersed in aesthetics and wellness - and loving every minute of it! What advice would you give to those considering a career in this field? Take the leap. If aesthetics excites you, follow that passion. Invest in quality training, stay curious, and surround yourself with mentors who inspire growth. It's a fulfilling and ever-evolving career.

Welcome to "Where Are They Now?", a series that follows the journey of individuals who have attended one of our courses and how they have applied the skills and knowledge gained with us in their professional and personal lives. We believe that learning is a lifelong journey, and we take pride in knowing that our program has had a positive impact on the lives of our attendees. Sofija Metanovic Introducing Sofija, the newest addition to our "Where Are They Now?" series. What were you doing before you got into aesthetics? Before aesthetics, I spent 10 years as a board-certified critical care nurse specializing in trauma, emergency medicine, and open-heart recovery. This background instilled in me a high level of precision, attention to safety, and patient advocacy -- all of which I carry into my aesthetic practice today. What inspired you to pursue a career in aesthetics? A lifelong interest in skincare and the personal experience of struggling with acne and eczema as a teenager sparked my passion for aesthetics. Over the years, I've witnessed how quality skin treatments can transform not only skin but also confidence. Combining my clinical skills with my passion for skin health felt like a natural progression and allowed me to help others feel more confident in their own skin. Why did you choose The Confidence Lab's training program? I chose The Confidence Lab because of its commitment to safety, integrity, and patient-centered care. The structured training, led by highly experienced professionals, emphasized not just technique, but also ethical practice, which was extremely important to me. I wanted a program that prioritized evidence=based approaches and ongoing mentorship. The Confidence Lab delivered exactly that. What is your favorite aspect of working in the field of aesthetics? M y favorite part is seeing the transformation -- not just physically but emotionally. Helping someone feel confident and comfortable in their own skin is incredibly rewarding. I also love educating clients, empowering them to understand their treatments and be part of their skin health journey. What are you doing now? I'm the owner and lead aesthetic nurse injector at The Aesthetic Drop , my med spa located in Elmhurst, Illinois. I specialize in injectables like Jeuveau, microneedling, PRP/PPP dermal fillers, and Hydrafacials. My focus is on delivering safe, effective, and natural-looking results, while educating clients on medical-grade skincare. What advice would you give to those considering a career in this field? Invest in quality training from reputable educators, like The Confidence Lab. Never stop learning and always prioritize safety over trends. Building trust with your clients is everything -- your skillset and integrity will speak louder than any marketing. Surround yourself with supportive mentors and peers who encourage growth and professionalism.

Have You Registered for MedSpa Pro yet? If not, consider this your reminder. This event always sells out and for good reason. It's a fantastic conference that delivers value for injectors, practice owners, medical directors, and operations teams alike. This year, six of our team is traveling together to soak up everything we can. Between clinical tracks, business tracks, anatomy, and cadaver workshops - there's something for everyone on our team. I love going to conferences with our team, we are always the first to show up, sit in the front row, and ready to learn and share. I'm honored to be teaching again this year alongside some of the industry's brightest minds: Dr. Russo, Dr. Pozner, Injector Bunny, Samuel Lynch, Terri Ross, Joelle Lieman ... the lineup is experienced and inspiring. I'll be presenting two sessions under the theme "Subtle Sophistication", where I'll be sharing my signature techniques for lip rejuvenation. Always designed to enhance, never exaggerate. And yes, we're going deep into consults too. I know, they're not always the topic that gets people buzzing, but let me be clear: consults are everything. They're the foundation of safe outcomes, ethical decision-making, and loyal patient relationships. And I'm here to make them anything but boring. And here's a little gift for you: Use my code RANA50 for 50% OFF - the biggest discount available for this event. Register now And let's talk about where it's all happening: Boca Raton. The hotel is apparently stunning. I've even been told it's "the best in Boca" by friends who live there and if I stayed at their house they were going to take us there anyway. For the first time ever, I'm bringing my family with me. My son's best friend lives in town so it's a perfect excuse to mix a little personal fun into a learning weekend. Maybe this year I'll finally float in the pool (usually I'm to busy running from lecture to lecture, you know how it goes!) But even if I don't, I hope you do. Hope to see you there, whether it's in the front row of a session or those great chats that happen in the corridors. Rana

Mark your calendars: September 13-14 at the beautiful Marriott Marquis Chicago, we have something big happening in aesthetics - and it's right here in our own backyard! Our entire team at The Confidence Bar is attending Sciton's Skin CEO . We are beyond excited to be together, to learn, grow, and have some fun of course. We have all experienced the wonders of laser and light therapies from Sciton and love to deliver these results to our patients as well. I'm honored to be invited to join the speaker lineup this year. I'll be speaking on how to elevate every aspect of your aesthetic practice from sharpening your clinical skills to strengthening your business strategy. If you've ever been to a Sciton event, you already know: they really bring the show and deliver the value. And at just $150 for the full weekend it's probably one of the most affordable investments you'll make this year. Conferences are typically thousands to attend for two days. Skin CEO is well worth the modest investment. The conference is centered around cutting-edge technology but they know it pairs perfectly with injectables, skincare, and practice growth. Here's a glimpse of the powerhouse lineup: Dr. Jason Pozner The laser guru! The depth of knowledge this man has is unbelievable. You'll learn from his honesty, his experience, and someone who has truly seen and done it all. Dr. Patrick Bitter Widely known as the king of BroadBand Light (BBL) and the visionary behind the most effective skin-transforming protocols for luminous, healthy skin. Erin Hennessey & Taylor Siemens Expert practitioners who are generously sharing what actually works in laser and light therapy for real-world results. Dr. Julius Few Chicago's own plastic surgeon who blends surgical precision with energy-based technologies for comprehensive, beautiful outcomes. Dr. Jay Burns Of Dallas TX, an industry icon and true master of advanced laser resurfacing for aging, sun-damaged skin. An absolute must-see. And then there's me! I'll be sharing how I combine injectables with energy-based treatments to achieve natural results that patients truly love. Because, let's be real, good skin always comes first in creating beautiful aesthetics. And it's not just for injectors or laser specialists. This event is built for your concierge team, practice managers, and business owners too. Whether you're just getting started or looking to elevate your skills and business. Plus the chance to mingle with our amazing Chicago aesthetic community. When September 13, 2025 | 8:00am - 5:00pm September 14, 2025 | 8:00am - 2:30pm Where Marriot Marquis Chicago 2121 S Prairie Ave, Chicago IL, 60616 Register Now Or reach out to your Sciton rep who might be able to hook you up with tickets. This event will sell out!

Our Confidence Circles are complimentary gatherings held every 4-6 weeks, designed to bring our aesthetic community together. These events are a chance to learn from guest speakers, share openly, and enjoy a relaxed evening with nibbles and bubbles. We warmly welcome everyone, hoping you’ll find a new home here—a place to connect, collaborate, and build friendships with fellow practitioners seeking a supportive, uplifting network! In 2025, our second year of Confidence Circles promises to bring even more empowerment and encouragement that we all deserve. The speakers we have invited are all insightful and motivated - things we all aspire to be. Bringing together their expertise and celebrating our community here will make this a wonderful year. Preview all our events below and add them to your calendar today! August 21st: All Things Laser with Kelly Geisinger Kelly is a highly skilled aesthetic director and certified laser specialist, whose passion is enhancing your natural beauty. With 25 years of experience in the beauty and skincare industry, Kelly has developed an eye for detail and a commitment to personalized care. Specializing in advanced laser treatments, including skin rejuvenation, hair removal, and pigmentation correction, Kelly combines expertise with a deep understanding of skin health to provide results that empower clients to look and feel their best. As an aesthetic director, Kelly leads a team of skilled professionals, ensuring the highest standards of safety and results-driven treatments. By staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends and technology, Kelly brings innovation and a tailored approach to each client’s aesthetic journey. Reserve your seat here September 18th: Empowering Skincare through Science with Tracee Blackburn Tracee Blackburn, PA-C is a seasoned expert in dermatology and adolescent health with over 20 years of experience. Currently pursuing her doctorate, Tracee brings a unique perspective shaped by her diverse background in integrative medicine, clinical care, and patient education. As the founder of Project Skin-X and author of several dermatology-themed books, she’s passionate about empowering individuals—especially teens—through accessible, science-based skincare solutions. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from Tracee, as she dives into the world of functional medicine and holistic dermatologic care. Reserve your seat here December 4th: Better Together: The Art of Combining Radiesse and Sculptra with Lisa Rivero We are so excited to welcome one of our very own aesthetic practitioners, Lisa Rivero, as she dives into her unique approach to biostimulators. With a sharp eye for facial harmony and years of experience, Lisa will reveal how layering and sequencing Radiesse and Sculptra can restore volume, boost collagen, and deliver natural, long-lasting results. Join us to learn practical techniques and treatment pearls from one of our very own. Reserve your seat here. More information about Confidence Circles and upcoming Confidence Lab Trainings available here.

Welcome to "Where Are They Now?", a series that follows the journey of individuals who have attended one of our courses and how they have applied the skills and knowledge gained with us in their professional and personal lives. We believe that learning is a lifelong journey, and we take pride in knowing that our program has had a positive impact on the lives of our attendees. Shivani Doctor, PA-C Introducing Shivani, the newest addition to our "Where Are They Now?" series. Shivani attended a customized one-on-one training day with Cristina Herman, MSN FNP-C. What were you doing before you got into aesthetics? I have done my homeopathic medicine and surgery training in India followed by a post graduate diploma in counseling and health psychology. I moved to the US and completed my Masters in Physician Associate Studies. I worked in Cardiothoracic Surgery and Interventional Radiology for 20 years. What inspired you to pursue a career in aesthetics? Both Cardiothoracic Surgery and Interventional Radiology are procedural based and working with a Plastic Surgeon during collaborative surgeries post CABG and my interest in dermatology during my internship came to fruition when I was approached by a plastic surgeon to start a medspa. Integrative Health and Aesthetics was born in May of 2021. Why did you choose The Confidence Lab's training program? I am a hands-on learning person and a big believer in investing in aesthetic training so my foundation is strong both in anatomy and technique. When I researched The Confidence Lab's training program, it fit the bill for customized hands on training. Rana is so warm and authentic. She greeted me at The Confidence Lab when I arrived and this is the vibe I got from the time I was considering doing the course, to talking to their coordinator, to booking the training, to meeting Cristina Herman who did my training. Rana shared business knowledge on specific questions I had, and Cristina is just phenomenal with her training. She walked me through doing the procedures during the customized one-on-one day, giving constant tips and education through the process. What is your favorite aspect of working in the field of aesthetics? Connecting with our clients, understanding their aesthetic goals, and delivering them are some of my favorite parts of working in aesthetics. What are you doing now? I did integrative and anti-aging treatments as a part of functional and integrative medicine with gut, hormone, immune, and neurotransmitter health. I firmly believe skin health is just as important and is a reflection of your gut and hormone health and overall skin care. I incorporated integrative and regenerative aesthetics to have a holistic approach to the overall person I was treating and their goals. Offering injectables, lasers, RF microneedling, PRP and PRF at Integrative Health and Aesthetics has been a rewarding professional experience and our clients have been thrilled. What advice would you give to those considering a career in this field? Get a strong foundation with training in both anatomy and technique. Shadow experienced injectors. Get a mentor who will guide you through the process.

Welcome to "Where Are They Now?", a series that follows the journey of individuals who have attended one of our courses and how they have applied the skills and knowledge gained with us in their professional and personal lives. We believe that learning is a lifelong journey, and we take pride in knowing that our program has had a positive impact on the lives of our attendees. Kelsie Hardy, FNP-BC Introducing: Kelsie, the newest addition to our "Where Are They Now?" series. Kelsie did a 1-1 Half Day Training with Lauren focusing on Full Facial Contour with HA Fillers and Biostimulators. What were you doing before you got into aesthetics? Before entering the aesthetics field, I worked as an ER nurse and later as a nurse practitioner in urgent care. These roles gave me a strong clinical foundation, as well as extensive experience in patient assessment, procedural skills, and fast-paced decision making. What inspired you to pursue a career in aesthetics? I've always had a deep appreciation for beauty, art, and science. Aesthetics is a unique field that blends all three. It allows me to combine my clinical skills with creativity to help people look and feel their best. Why did you choose The Confidence Lab's training program? I was drawn to The Confidence Lab for their strong focus on anatomy and their professional, yet approachable social media presence. It reflects a balance of expertise and authenticity that really resonated with me. What is your favorite aspect of working in the field of aesthetics? One of my favorite aspects of working in aesthetics is helping people feel more confident in their appearance. It's incredibly rewarding to make a positive impact on how someone sees themselves, both inside and out. What are you doing now? I'm currently practicing in Pittsburgh as an advanced practice aesthetic injector, where I focus on delivering safe, natural-looking results. In addition, I maintain my clinical skills in family practice through telemedicine, allowing me to stay well-rounded in both aesthetic and primary care settings. What advice would you give to those considering a career in this field? I highly recommend prioritizing continuing education and seeking out quality mentorship. remember that everyone starts somewhere; we're all human, and true injection confidence develops with experience and time. Find Kelsie on Instagram here. | Find Lauren on Instagram here.

As aesthetic practitioners, we know a thing or two about skin. Everything we offer is dependent on tissues that are hydrated and healthy. Maintaining that foundation takes daily effort, but is well worth it. According to the American Academy of Dermatology , skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States with 9,500 people receiving a diagnosis every day. Yet it is also one of the most preventable cancers. The AAD has launched SpotSkinCancer.org to raise public awareness and provide valuable resources. As practitioners, it is our duty to support and educate our patients on these topics where we are the experts. This important awareness campaign is something we all can and should get behind. Here are three steps to prevent, identify, and treat skin cancer. Practice Safe Sun Seek shade Remember: The sun's rays are strongest between 10am and 2pm. Anytime your shadow is shorter than you, seek shade Wear sun-protective clothing Lightweight and long-sleeved shirts, pants, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses with UV protection are your best bet. For prolonged daily exposure, select clothing with an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) on the label Apply sunscreen Select one that is: Broad-spectrum protection, Water resistant, SPF 30 or higher Tinted sunscreens with iron oxide are best to prevent dark spots Reapply every 2 hours or after swimming Perform a Skin Self-Exam The AAD put out this helpful video guide from board-certified dermatologists on how to perform a self-exam Here are the ABCDE's of spotting A symmetry around spot B order is irregular C olors vary across the spot D iameter of more than 6 mm E volving shape or color over time If you have any areas of concern after examining yourself, schedule an appointment with your medical provider. Get Checked for Skin Cancer by a Medical Professional When caught early, skin cancer is very treatable. Making an appointment with a dermatologist as soon as you have a concern is your best bet for successful treatment. Whether with your existing doctor, or through a free skin cancer screening , don't hesitate to get a diagnosis! Share These Resources the Dangers of Skin Cancer and the Importance of Prevention and Early Detection These helpful downloads are easy to share with our patients, family, and friends. Body mole map How to select a sunscreen How to SPOT Skin Cancer Check Your Partner, Check Yourself Skin Safety (Lesson plan for children and young adults) The AAD provides additional information about what to do once you have a diagnosis, how to get care without health insurance, and prescription cost assistance. This wealth of information is intended to create a future where there are 0 new cases every day.