The GW Department of Dermatology hosts a series of signature conferences and educational events throughout the year — for residents, faculty, alumni, and the broader dermatology community. Explore our lineup below.
Bridging Science and Clinical Application in Sunscreen and Cosmeceutical Vehicles
The Lab to Label conference brought together dermatology experts, scientists, and skincare industry professionals to explore the science behind sunscreen and cosmeceutical products and their practical applications in clinical care. The program focused on skincare formulations, active ingredients, photoprotection, regulatory considerations, and translating scientific knowledge into meaningful patient education and treatment strategies. The second annual Lab to Label Conference takes place in August 2026 at GW SMHS in Washington, D.C.
Conference Highlights
Science Behind Skincare: Explored skin structure and function, skincare ingredients, and the role of cleansing and moisturizers in everyday practice.
- Formulation and Product Innovation: Covered practical considerations for skincare formulations, cosmeceuticals, and over-the-counter acne products.
- Photoprotection and Sunscreen Science: Examined photobiology, photoprotection filters, and strategies for sun care.
- Clinical Application: Connected scientific concepts with practical approaches to acne management, dyspigmentation, and realistic patient expectations.
- Expert-Led Learning: Featured dermatologists, scientists, and industry professionals sharing their expertise through presentations, panel discussions, and interactive sessions.
- Hands-On Demonstrations: Included practical formulation discussions, acne patch demonstrations, and UVA meter demonstrations.
- Science Communication: Explored media engagement and strategies for communicating evidence-based science to broader audiences.
From Evidence to Equity: Dermatologic Care For Sexual and Gender Minorities
From Evidence to Equity focuses on advancing equity, inclusion, and excellence in dermatologic care for sexual and gender minorities (SGM). The conference brings attention to gaps in dermatology education and healthcare delivery while promoting interdisciplinary dialogue, inclusive clinical practices, and improved patient engagement.
Through evidence-based learning and discussion, the conference explores unique dermatologic considerations, gender-affirming care, appropriate patient communication, and the importance of representation in clinical recognition, diagnosis, and treatment.
Conference Highlights
- Equity in Dermatologic Care: Addressing healthcare disparities affecting sexual and gender minorities.
- Inclusive Clinical Practices: Promoting respectful communication and appropriate terminology when working with SGM patients.
- Gender-Affirming Dermatologic Care: Exploring dermatologic considerations related to gender-affirming treatment.
- Evidence-Based Education: Bridging knowledge gaps among dermatologists and healthcare professionals.
- Interdisciplinary Dialogue: Encouraging collaboration and knowledge sharing across healthcare disciplines.
- Patient-Centered Care: Supporting improved clinical recognition, diagnosis, treatment, and patient engagement.
Representation and Inclusion: Amplifying underrepresented voices in dermatology and medical education.
ElderDerm: Improving Older Adult Dermatologic Care
ElderDerm is the first conference uniquely dedicated to geriatric dermatology — addressing the complexities of medical treatment and the social considerations involved in caring for older adult patients. With the population of adults over 65 projected to reach 21.6% by 2040, and dermatologic diagnoses rising in parallel, ElderDerm brings together clinical researchers and practitioners for a day of interactive educational sessions, panel discussions, product showcases, and networking — fueling future research and clinical trials in the field. The inaugural ElderDerm Conference was held on June 6, 2024, in Washington, D.C., and the second conference was held on May 1, 2025. Check out more details at the Elderderm website.
Conference Highlights
- Geriatric Dermatology: Addressing the unique dermatologic needs and complexities of older adult patients.
- Complex Treatment Considerations: Exploring safe and effective treatment approaches for older populations.
- Social Considerations and Barriers to Care: Examining the broader factors that influence dermatologic healthcare delivery.
- Clinical Education: Sharing evidence-based knowledge through interactive educational sessions and expert discussions.
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Encouraging collaboration between clinical researchers and practitioners to support future research and clinical trials.
- Patient-Centered Care: Highlighting the importance of shared decision-making in the management of older adult patients.
