Integrative Dermatology Symposium 2024

by Nabeel Ahmad

On Thursday, October 26th, our ISSR team embarked on an exciting journey to Reno for the highly anticipated Integrative Dermatological Symposium (IDS). This annual event serves as a gathering ground for leading health professionals eager to delve deeper into complementary therapies for common skin disorders.

The symposium kicked off with an engaging evening at the bowling and Jeopardy social, where we had the invaluable opportunity to connect with dermatologists and estheticians.

Friday unfolded as a day teeming with knowledge, networking, and exploration within the vast landscape of the Grand Sierra Resort and Casino. As I navigated through the Exhibit Hall, I seized the chance to collect samples of the latest skincare products, immersing myself in the cutting-edge advancements that promise to revolutionize skin care.

The interactive 10 am session titled “Nutrition and its Impact on Inflammatory Diseases” was a true highlight of the conference. Not only did I absorb insights from Chef Dean, but I also had the hands-on experience of crafting kale chips and brownie bites—a unique and memorable aspect that set this symposium apart.

Later in the day, I had the honor of presenting my poster, titled “The Skin Lipidome and Gut Short Chain Fatty Acid Profile of Acne & the Impact of Doxycycline.” This project delved into the intricate relationship between the gut microbiome and acne, specifically exploring how doxycycline, a commonly prescribed medication, alters the gut microbiome in patients with acne. The presentation provided a platform to share my findings and engage with fellow professionals on the intricacies of this intriguing study.

In retrospect, the Integrative Dermatological Symposium not only broadened my horizons in the field of dermatology but also facilitated meaningful connections with experts and peers. From interactive sessions to thought-provoking lectures, the symposium proved to be a melting pot of knowledge, innovation, and collaborative spirit—an experience that will undoubtedly shape and inspire my future endeavors in the realm of integrative dermatology.