Search
Support Camp Discovery
AAD’s ... Camp Discovery gives kids with chronic skin conditions a life-changing summer camp experience. Campers make friends, find acceptance, and are free to be themselves. Camp Discovery provides these children a sense of community and fun, at no cost to their families. ... Learn more about how to get
AAD Camp Discovery for kids
Camp Discovery offers children living with a chronic skin condition a one-of-a-kind camp experience. ... Provided at no cost to the families, Camp Discovery is one week of fun for kids with conditions ranging from eczema and psoriasis, to vitiligo and alopecia, to epidermolysis bullosa and ichthyosis. ... 2025 Camp
AAD Camp Discovery Stories
Camp Discovery provides children with chronic skin conditions a sense of community and fun. Campers make friends, find acceptance, and are free to be themselves. ... Learn more about the impact of this summer camp program by reading the stories below. ... Doing fun activities and making friends Delaney McKeon
Support AAD Camp Discovery
Donate to Camp Discovery ... Fun, friendship, and independence are on the top of everyone’s agenda. And, everyone shares in the discovery of what it’s like to be included. Your gift ensures that children with chronic skin conditions will continue to benefit from a week of fun and adventure, while
Doing fun activities and making friends | AAD Camp Discovery
Delaney McKeon loved her time as a camper at Camp Discovery. Delaney’s story ... Delaney loved participating in summer camp activities such as fishing. ... I heard about AAD Camp Discovery from an AAD member dermatologist. Dr. Ruth Ann Vleugels, who is my dermatologist at Boston Children’s Hospital, recommended Camp
AAD Camp Discovery | Frequently asked questions
These frequently asked questions provide campers and their families with more information about Camp Discovery. ... Who can refer a child to Camp Discovery? ... New this year, dermatologists and parents can ... refer a camper using our online form. ... Can I visit my child at Camp Discovery? ...
Learning and having fun at AAD Camp Discovery
Medical student Dane Markham loved his first time volunteering at Camp Discovery. Dane's story ... Dane Markham, medical student at Mayo Clinic Jacksonville. ... I am a medical student at Mayo Clinic and will be applying to dermatology this application cycle. I learned of the opportunity to volunteer at Camp
First time was unforgettable | AAD Camp Discovery
Medical student Christine Li loved volunteering at Camp Discovery for the first time . Christine’s story ... I learned about Camp Discovery through working with AAD member Karen Wiss, MD, FAAD, a dedicated and inspiring pediatric dermatologist, in the UMass Epidermolysis Bullosa clinic. This summer, I had the opportunity to
About AAD Camp Discovery
AAD Camp Discovery ... For one week out of the year, kids with chronic skin conditions from across the United States and around the world will come to Camp Discovery to experience an adventure filled with fun, friendship, and personal growth. Everyone, regardless of their skin condition, can experience activities
Kids with humor make Camp Discovery fun
Medical student and first time volunteer Creighton Pfau had a great Camp Discovery experience. Creighton’s story ... Creighton loved getting to experience fun summer camp activities with the campers. ... My time at Camp Discovery was a great experience. I learned a lot and got to have fun with the
Joy in life epitomized by AAD Camp Discovery
Becky Joseph, a medical student from Lubbock, Texas, loved her time at Camp Discovery. Becky's story ... As a medical student with a passion for dermatology and pediatrics, my decision to attend Camp Discovery, organized by the AAD, was driven by the hope of gaining more insights into these fields.
A nurse and a camper went to Camp Discovery
Traci Sprecht, a nurse, volunteered at Camp Discovery when her son Aiden attended as a first-time camper. Traci’s story ... Traci was with a group of female campers she loved spending time with. ... I’m a nurse, and I worked in a dermatology office for awhile. I actually did practicum
Camp Discovery is the best week
Eleanor Tung-Hahn, a medical student and volunteer, loved experiencing Camp Discovery for the first time. Eleanor’s story ... Eleanor Tung-Hahn (center right) of Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine in Bradenton, Florida, with her fellow volunteers. ... The day before Camp Discovery began, we were handed a green folder. Inside
Highlight of summer | AAD Camp Discovery
Medical student Savannah Fakhouri was happy to volunteer at AAD Camp Discovery . Savannah’s story ... Savannah Fakhouri, medical student at University of California, San Diego-School of Medicine. ... The summer after my first year of medical school at University of California San Diego I had the privilege of volunteering
Eggs, slime, and the virtual camp experience
Medical student Katie O'Connell, MS helped bring the fun of Camp Discovery to children at home. Katie's story ... Katie O'Connell helped bring the fun of virtual Camp Discovery to children at home with eggs and slime. ... The first pandemic summer, I had the incredible opportunity to organize and
AAD Camp Discovery | For campers and their families
Camp Discovery offers a safe, fun-filled environment for kids living with moderate to severe and/or chronic skin conditions, aged 8-16. There is no fee for camp. All costs, including transportation, are provided by the American Academy of Dermatology through generous donations from its members, other organizations, and individuals. ... At
Become a Camp Discovery volunteer
Become a Camp Discovery volunteer ... The success of AAD's Camp Discovery depends on dedicated medical staff and counselors who volunteer their time to ensure that the campers are safe, their medical needs are attended to, and have fun! ... Volunteers need to be at least 18 years of age.
Learning to be bold
Twelve-year-old Silas DeHaven, from DeWitt, Iowa, enjoyed his fourth year at Camp Discovery. Silas's story ... Since he was 8 years old, Silas has enjoyed attending Camp Discovery every year. ... My name is Silas, and I like going to Camp Discovery. It’s nice to see other kids like me,
AAD Camp Discovery | Camper medical care
Camp Discovery ensures a perfect balance between fun and necessary medical care, allowing campers to safely participate in a range of activities. Each camp is staffed with medical professionals, including dermatologists, pediatricians, physician assistants, and nurses, and is equipped to handle daily medical care regimens and medical emergencies, should they
Giving Tuesday
Donate now to provide children with chronic skin conditions a life-changing summer camp experience ... ... Camp Discovery ... AAD Camp Discovery provides children with chronic skin conditions a sense of community and fun. Campers make friends, find acceptance, and are free to be themselves. Provided at no cost
AAD Camp Discovery | How to apply
Refer a camper ... New this year, dermatologists and parents can ... refer a camper using our online form. Once the form is submitted, a staff member from the American Academy of Dermatology will contact the family. ... Not currently being seen by a dermatologist? Evaluation and referral by a
AAD Camp Discovery | Prepare for camp
Getting ready to attend camp encompasses more than just packing your suitcase. Campers are encouraged to come with an open mind and a willingness to meet new friends and try new things. Camp Discovery is a supportive community where lasting friendships and resilience are fostered and strengthened by campers, staff,
Giving back to make an impact
AAD member Franziska Ringpfeil, MD, FAAD, knows what a challenge skin disease can be for children. Dr. Ringpfeil’s story ... Franziska Ringpfeil, MD, FAAD ... I became aware of Camp Discovery years ago while in residency. During our annual AAD meeting, the outgoing president showed pictures of Camp Discovery, and
The meaning of community
Former camper Kaitlyn Wannall, now 18, loved her time at Camp Discovery. Kaitlyn’s story ... Kaitlyn Wannall is looking forward to starting college in the fall of 2022. ... The community of people with skin diseases is present everywhere. I became a part of this community when I was nine
Emotional support may help control eczema
Camp Discovery ... At AAD's Camp Discovery, spending time with other children who have a skin condition can boost self-esteem, reduce stress, and ease feelings of "being alone ... If your child seems sad, lonely, or anxious, you may want to mention this to your child’s dermatologist. Research shows that
Spreading the mission of Good Skin Knowledge
Medical student Katie O’Connell enjoys the opportunity to teach Good Skin Knowledge virtually to AAD Camp Discovery participants and Hornets’ Nest troop members in North Carolina. Katie’s story ... Katie O’Connell, MS, is a fourth-year medical student at Eastern Virginia Medical School who is passionate about community education and making
Helping kids be carefree
Tatyana Fonseca is a longtime volunteer who keeps coming back. Tatyana’s story ... My name is Tatyana and I got involved with Camp Discovery in 2015. I was initially intended to be a camper in 2014, but as a teenager who underestimated the importance of deadlines, I ended up joining
AAD Camp Discovery | The camper experience
Everyone, regardless of their skin condition, can experience activities such as fishing, swimming, archery, horseback riding, nature trails, and just plain fun! ... While activities vary from day to day, a typical day at camp might include: ... Time ... Activity ... 8:30 a.m. ... Breakfast followed by announcements ...
Get involved
The impact of the programs and services of the American Academy of Dermatology is felt by the child with a chronic skin condition attending Camp Discovery, the man or woman teaching sun safety using free AAD resources, the kids who play outside beneath an AAD shade structure – the hundreds
AAD Donor Impact Report
Powered by your generosity ... At the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), the impact of your generosity is clear: healthier skin, empowered communities, and a brighter future for dermatology. Thanks to supporters like you, we provide life-changing opportunities and essential care for those in need, fostering education, awareness, and hope.
Public health programs
Dermatologists care deeply about the effects that skin conditions have on their patients’ lives. That’s why they have helped develop these public health programs. ... AAD awards grants for shade structures One blistering sunburn during childhood or adolescence can nearly double a person's chance of developing melanoma. That's why the
Embrace your appearance!
Medical student Casey Paul Schukow helps teach local summer camp kids how to appreciate their skin. Casey's story ... Casey Schukow is currently a fourth-year medical student at Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine (MSUCOM). ... "I learned about the dermis today," one of the campers stated after a
Frequently asked questions for volunteers
These frequently asked questions provide answers to how to become a volunteer, what experience is needed, and the length of time volunteers are required to be at camp. ... Q: How do I apply to volunteer? A: ... Applications are available beginning in mid-January of each year and can be
Providing shade for the underserved
Barbara J. Stark, President and CEO of Milagro Center, was thrilled to receive a shade structure. Barbara's story ... Milagro Center is an after-school and summer camp program that serves economically challenged, academically at-risk children and teens from the most underserved communities in southern Palm Beach County in Florida. Milagro
Epidermolysis bullosa: Tips dermatologists give parents
Dermatologists are committed to improving the quality of life for children who have EB and their parents. One way they do this is by giving parents information to help them care for their child. ... These tips include the following: ... Try to reduce blisters from diapers and clothes with
Kim’s personal story
Chip Hamrick ... My brother Chip was just 43 years old. His only complaints were what he had self-diagnosed as gall bladder symptoms. ... Over the weekend of July 4th, 2011, Chip and his family camp to visit us camping. I am not a fan of camping, so when all
AAD Donor Social Media Kit
Thank you for being an AAD supporter. We’re proud of the impact we are able to make in our local communities thanks to you. We invite you to proudly display one of our donorbadges on your website or share a post on social media to show your contribution to AAD
Head lice: Who gets and causes
Who gets head lice? ... Anyone can get head lice. In the United States, children in preschool and elementary school are most likely to get head lice. Children can spread the lice to their parents, caretakers, and others in their households. ... Girls seem more likely than boys to get
AAD Shade Structure stories
AAD Shade Structures provide permanent outdoor shade in areas such as playgrounds, pools, or recreation spaces that are not protected from the sun. ... Learn more about the impact of this grant program by reading the stories below. ... Providing shade for the underserved Milagro Center is an after-school and
Psoriasis treatment: Cyclosporine
Cyclosporine was first approved to prevent the body from rejecting a transplanted organ. When given to organ-transplant recipients who had psoriasis, patients discovered that the medicine also effectively treated their psoriasis. Since that discovery, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved cyclosporine to treat psoriasis in adults who
Support AAD
AAD Cares: Community Outreach Programs ... The American Academy of Dermatology is committed to improving the lives and health of people across the country. ... Learn how the AAD is building shade structures to protect kids from the damaging effects of the sun, educating children and adults about the importance
The Academy’s impact
Through AAD humanitarian programs, we carry out our commitment to educate the public about healthy skin, hair, and nails in an effort to motivate them to take positive action in improving their quality of life, and in the case of skin cancer, save lives. Additionally, we recognize the importance our
Stress: Is it a common eczema trigger?
As children transition into their tween or teen years, stress often becomes a common eczema trigger. Research shows that managing stress effectively can reduce eczema flares. ... Manage stress ... Stress is a common eczema trigger, so it’s important to teach your child how to manage stress. ... Here are
Support Good Skin Knowledge
Good Skin Knowledge provides free resources to educators to teach children ages 8-13 important lessons about skin health and help build self-confidence about their skin. ... Learn more about the impact of this youth education campaign by reading the stories below. ... Using passion about dermatology to impact community Therese
Some UV wands can injure your eyes, skin in seconds
UV wands can sanitize everything from countertops to hotel rooms, and many of these wands are available for consumers to buy. While available, some UV wands are not safe for consumers to use, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). ... The FDA has found that some UV
Pityriasis rosea: Causes
What causes pityriasis rosea? ... Why some people get this disease is still a bit of a mystery. It’s likely caused by a virus. Dermatologists have found human herpesviruses in the rash, blood, and saliva of people who have pityriasis rosea. ... How can herpesviruses cause pityriasis rosea? ... These
Leadership story by Kelly M. Cordoro, MD, FAAD
Leadership Development Steering Committee chair Kelly M. Cordoro, MD, FAAD, finds it an incredible privilege to strengthen and expand the programs and offerings of the Leadership Institute. Dr. Cordoro’s story ... Kelly M. Cordoro, MD, FAAD, chair of the AAD’s Leadership Development Steering Committee. ... Leadership training has influenced every
Coming together to raise awareness and funds for skin cancer prevention programs
AAD member Sarah Jackson, MD, FAAD, loved getting her high school daughter and their community involved with the AAD’s Skin Cancer, Take a Hike!™ Dr. Jackson’s story ... Sarah Jackson, MD, FAAD, and daughter Adelaide Jackson brought their community together to promote sun safety. ... When my daughter Adelaide, a
Psoriasis: Causes
Psoriasis is common. About 2% of people living in the United States have this condition. ... 1 ... Most people who get psoriasis have white skin, but the condition develops in people of all races. Findings from studies indicate that psoriasis may be more common in skin of color than
Digital media kit: AAD advertising standards
Download a PDF of the Advertising Standards . ... The American Academy of Dermatology and AAD Association (collectively, "the Academy")owns or controls a variety of communication outlets, including but not limited to publications, websites, digital newsletters, meeting site signage (banners, buses, billboards et al), etc., and accepts advertising as a
AAD advertising policies
Download a PDF of the AAD advertising policies . ... Advertising acceptance ... All advertising must comply with the Academy’s Advertising Standards. Acceptance of all advertising is subject to ad review and approval by the Academy. Ads which have not previously appeared in any Academy publications must be submitted for
Prurigo nodularis: Causes
All content solely developed by the American Academy of Dermatology ... The American Academy of Dermatology gratefully acknowledges the support from ... Sanofi and ... Regeneron . ... What causes prurigo nodularis? ... Dermatologists and other researchers are still studying what causes this disease. ... From what researchers have found,
Lupus and your skin: Causes
Some types of lupus are more common in Black people ... Research shows that systemic lupus erythematosus is 2 to 3 times more common in women than men and more common in Black Americans than white Americans. Discoid lupus is most common in Black people. ... What causes lupus on
Skin cancer types: Merkel cell carcinoma causes
Who gets Merkel cell carcinoma? ... Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is rare, which makes it harder to study. For this reason, scientists are still not entirely sure what causes it. They have learned a lot, however, by looking at cancer records. ... It’s through cancer records that they discovered the
Xeroderma pigmentosum: Rare disease causes an extreme sensitivity to sunlight
Everyone has sun-sensitive skin. It’s the reason we tan and sunburn. It’s why freckles, age spots, and skin cancers appear. ... Some people are born more sun sensitive than others. People who have an extreme sensitivity to sunlight are born with a rare disease known as xeroderma pigmentosum (XP). They
Prurigo nodularis: Signs and symptoms
All content solely developed by the American Academy of Dermatology ... The American Academy of Dermatology gratefully acknowledges the support from ... Sanofi and ... Regeneron . ... Where does prurigo nodularis develop on the body? ... Prurigo nodularis causes itchy bumps on the skin, which appear when someone repeatedly
Pityriasis rosea: Signs and symptoms
Pityriasis rosea is a common condition, which causes a harmless rash on the skin. The rash usually lasts 6 to 8 weeks before disappearing, but it can last longer. ... Where does pityriasis rosea appear on the body? ... The rash can develop anywhere on the skin or scalp. However,
Pityriasis rosea: FAQs
What is pityriasis rosea? ... It’s a common condition that causes a rash on the skin. This rash is harmless and usually lasts 6 to 8 weeks before disappearing. While harmless, getting a diagnosis can be important. This rash may look like ringworm, psoriasis, or eczema, which often require treatment.
Head lice: Diagnosis and treatment
How to treat head lice ... Watch this video for dermatologists' tips to check for and treat lice. ... Check for and treat head lice like a pro with these dermatologists' tips. ... Diagnosing head lice at home ... If you are concerned that someone has head lice, you can
Heart medicine can clear strawberry birthmarks
If you left your dermatologist’s office with a prescription for propranolol (pro-pran-no-lol), you can take comfort in knowing that your baby is getting a trustworthy treatment for a fast-growing birthmark. ... Why would a dermatologist prescribe heart medication to treat a birthmark? ... Yes, propranolol is a heart medicine. Today,
Millie's personal story
Millie Reeves is a mother who enjoys life to the fullest and is 100% involved with her children in all that they do. Today she is a survivor of melanoma. ... May is Skin Cancer Awareness month and the first Monday in May has been given the name of Spot
What options are available when melanoma spreads to the brain?
Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that can spread to other parts of the body. When it spreads to an internal organ, such as the brain, a patient has advanced or metastatic (met-ah-stat-ic) cancer. This is stage IV, the most serious stage. ... Research breakthroughs are helping patients with
Pityriasis rosea: How to treat it at home
While you have a rash, you want to take some precautions ... Keeping your skin cool, using fragrance-free skin care products, and protecting your skin from the sun can help prevent a worsening rash. You don’t need to stay away from others. ... If you have pityriasis rosea, the rash
10 surprising facts about indoor tanning
Is a tanning bed really safer than the sun? Will indoor tanning help your body make all of the vitamin D it needs? Findings from years of scientific studies have answered these and other burning questions about indoor tanning. ... Here are 10 research-backed facts that may surprise you. ...
Pityriasis rosea: Diagnosis and treatment
Pityriasis rosea causes a rash that will clear on its own, so most people don’t need treatment. See a board-certified dermatologist if: ... You’re pregnant or think you could be. You’ll need a diagnosis, so you can tell your obstetrician. ... Symptoms are interfering with your everyday life. If itching
Lupus and your skin: Signs and symptoms
Where do signs of lupus appear on the skin? ... There are different types of lupus, and each can affect the skin differently. You may see a rash, sores, swelling, or other changes. These changes often appear on skin that gets sun like the: ... Face ... Lips ... Scalp
Lupus and your skin: Self-care
How to care for your skin if you have lupus ... While nothing can substitute for an effective treatment agreed upon between a patient and their physician, practicing certain health habits may prevent the condition from worsening and lessen the risk of long-term side effects. ... To help care for
Dermatologist-recommended skin care for people with diabetes
Moisturize your skin ... Well-moisturized skin can help you avoid skin complications due to diabetes. ... When you have diabetes, finding time for skin care can seem like a luxury. Monitoring your glucose level, sticking to a meal plan, finding time to exercise, and managing stress can definitely take priority.
Prurigo nodularis: FAQs
All content solely developed by the American Academy of Dermatology ... The American Academy of Dermatology gratefully acknowledges the support from ... Sanofi and ... Regeneron . ... What is prurigo nodularis? ... Prurigo nodularis is an intensely itchy skin condition. Scratching causes hard, itchy bumps called nodules to appear
Lupus and your skin: Treatment
When lupus affects your skin, a dermatologist may be part of your care team ... A board-certified dermatologist has the expertise needed to create a treatment plan that can help manage skin, hair, and nail problems caused by lupus. ... If lupus could be affecting your skin, it’s important to
Prurigo nodularis: 9 dermatologists’ tips for relieving the itch
All content solely developed by the American Academy of Dermatology ... The American Academy of Dermatology gratefully acknowledges the support from ... Sanofi and ... Regeneron . ... How to ease the itch of prurigo nodularis ... If you have this skin condition, you know how itchy it can be.
How to clear acne due to gender-affirming testosterone therapy
Beginning gender-affirming therapy can be an exciting time in your life. If you’ve decided to use testosterone, you likely look forward to changes, such as a deeper voice, facial hair growth, and bigger, stronger muscles. When you start to see these changes, you may notice one you hadn’t thought about
How your workout can affect your skin
Working out affects skin in good and not-so-good ways. Here is how to protect it while getting fit. ... Working out regularly can help maintain your weight, boost your overall mood and self-esteem, motivate you to eat healthier, and do wonders for your skin. However, not taking the right precautions
Lupus and your skin: Overview
Lupus ... What is lupus? Lupus is a group of diseases that can cause inflammation in different parts of your body. One part of the body that lupus often affects is the skin. When lupus affects the skin, it’s called ... cutaneous (skin) lupus . Board-certified dermatologists are experts in
Diabetes: 10 warning signs that can appear on your skin
Diabetes can affect many parts of your body, including your skin. When diabetes affects the skin, it could mean that: ... You have undiagnosed diabetes or pre-diabetes. ... Your treatment for diabetes needs to be adjusted. ... It’s time to talk with your doctor if you notice any of these
Epidermolysis bullosa: Diagnosis and treatment
If you or your child might have epidermolysis bullosa, it’s important to find out what’s going on. For anyone living with this condition, treatment is necessary to ease symptoms, protect their skin, and reduce the risk of developing complications like an infection. ... The following explains how this condition is
Prurigo nodularis: Diagnosis and treatment
All content solely developed by the American Academy of Dermatology ... The American Academy of Dermatology gratefully acknowledges the support from ... Sanofi and ... Regeneron . ... How do dermatologists diagnose prurigo nodularis? ... Your dermatologist can often diagnose prurigo nodularis by examining your skin for signs of this
Skin cancer fact sheet
Incidence rates ... Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. (1,2) ... Current estimates are that one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. (3) ... It is estimated that approximately 9,500 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with skin cancer every day.