If you live in Seattle, getting a weird mole or rash checked out by a dermatologist might just mean a quick trip across town. But if you live in a […]
Author Archives: Alex Siauw
Do Hormones Actually Cause Acne? A Look at the Biochemistry
Acne is of the most common skin conditions in the world—yet also one of the most misunderstood. You’ve probably heard people casually blame it on “hormones” or reassure you that […]
The Cost of Being Unheard in Washington’s Healthcare System
Racism in healthcare is “Undeniable, irrefutable—the data is there.” Those were the words of Dr. Benjamin Danielson, one of Seattle’s most respected pediatricians. In 2020, he resigned from Seattle Children’s […]
Botox Explained: How a Neurotoxin Became a Beauty Staple
In 2022, over 9 million Botox injections were given worldwide, making it one of the most popular cosmetic treatments today. Known for its ability to reduce wrinkles and give skin […]
Why Skin of Color Still Gets Misdiagnosed — and How We Can Fix It
In 2012, Lauryn Taylor—a Black woman—was misdiagnosed with eczema. Another doctor thought it might be vitiligo. Then came guesses like pityriasis alba or macular hypomelanosis. But none of them were […]
Biochemical Markers of Psoriasis: What’s Happening Beneath the Skin?
Often confused with atopic dermatitis, psoriasis is also an incurable chronic skin condition that is characterized by itchy/inflamed and scaly patches of skin. As psoriasis affects ~2% of the United […]
Laser Resurfacing vs. Pigmentation Lasers: Which Treatment Suits Your Skin?
Providing a diverse plethora of skin benefits, laser treatments have revolutionized dermatology and have skyrocketed in popularity, with roughly 4 million laser skin treatments being performed annually. This surge in […]
Tyrosinase Inhibitors vs. Melanogenesis Inhibitors: Which is Better for Treating Pigmentation?
What causes pigmentation? Responsible for providing color to our skin, hair, and eyes, melanin is an essential, naturally produced pigment that our body–and most organisms— is constantly producing. Our natural […]
What Happens During an Eczema Flare-Up? A Scientific Breakdown
What is eczema?Eczema is a common skin condition characterized by inflamed, itchy patches of dry and scaly skin. This chronic condition affects roughly 10% of the US population. These patches […]
Protease vs. PHAs: Which is Better for Sensitive Skin?
Protease vs. PHAs: Which is Better for Sensitive Skin? Both protease enzymes and polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) are widely known for their gentle exfoliating properties, making them excellent choices for individuals […]