Dr. Sandra Lee, renowned as Dr. Pimple Popper, has been captivating audiences on YouTube since 2010 with her work as a board-certified dermatologist. Her 2018 series, Dr. Pimple Popper, amassed millions of fans who eagerly tune in weekly to witness her remarkable procedures, from treating pilar cysts to extracting a 55-year-old blackhead. These are truly must-watch for those with a strong stomach!

Compassion in Dermatology

Dr. Lee not only achieves transformative results but does so with an extraordinary level of care and humanity. Many of her patients, who are often reluctant to leave their homes due to skin issues, feel understood and valued. She attributes this to her father, a fellow dermatologist, who emphasized the importance of bedside manner. As she recalls from med school, "You can be the smartest dermatologist in the world, at the top of your class at the best school, but if you lack empathy, your patients will perceive you as a bad doctor." Additionally, she highlights that a significant aspect of dermatology is its impact on one's mental well-being. "Giving people a sense of control over their skin is just as crucial," she adds.

Personal Struggle with Atopic Dermatitis

Dr. Lee has firsthand experience with a chronic skin condition. Since childhood, she has battled atopic dermatitis (AD), the most common form of eczema affecting 21 million people in the U.S. aged 12 and older. She vividly remembers a time when her mother considered sending her back to Malaysia for family care due to the severity of her eczema. "It made me cry constantly," she recalls. "The discomfort was unbearable." This personal struggle has led her to develop a special connection with eczema patients. "When I tell them that I have the same condition and grew up with it, it creates a bond between us," she says. People with eczema often hide their condition, reluctant to discuss it openly. But through sharing her own experience, she hopes to help those suffering.

Partnership for Clear Moments

In partnership with Incyte, the makers of Opzelura, a new prescription non-steroidal topical cream, Dr. Lee launched Moments of Clarity. This digital campaign aims to connect people with eczema. "It's essential for eczema sufferers to know they're not alone," she emphasizes. Sharing her own "really bad flare" during med school gives her the chance to connect with more people. They may visit the site to learn about treatment options and realize that there is help available. "They don't have to endure this condition without seeking professional care," she adds.

Skin Care Regimen for Eczema

Dr. Lee's current regimen involves being "religious about moisturizer" to manage her eczema. After taking a shower, she immediately applies moisturizer to lock in the moisture. Otherwise, she knows the rest of the day will be uncomfortable, with dryness leading to itching and potential loss of control. For those with or without eczema, her best skincare tip is to keep it simple. "I don't believe in applying 20 products to your face," she says. "If it makes you feel good and doesn't consume three hours of your day and doesn't interfere with your life, go for it. But don't feel pressured to follow complex routines to have beautiful skin."