From questions to solutions

“This is a question-answer book,” says Dr Jaishree Sharad. The questions are legit asked on Instagram by her Instagram followers. Know more…

“ The book’s Q&A format allows consumers to find quick and straightforward answers to common skincare concerns.”

In the ever-evolving realm of aesthetic medicine and dermatology, where the pursuit of flawless and healthy skin remains at the forefront, knowledge is the most potent tool. Dr Jaishree Sharad, Medical Director, Skinfinitii Aesthetic & Laser Clinic, Mumbai, has long been revered for her expertise in harnessing the power of dermatology to transform lives. Her latest literary endeavour, a testament to her unwavering commitment to advancing the field, has been making waves.

As she exclusively shares with Aesthetic Medicine India, Shriyal Sethumadhavan delves deeper into the brilliant mind behind Dr Sharad’s recent launch ‘The Skincare Answer Book’, and discover the inspiration and vision that led to its creation. This comprehensive resource (the book) is reshaping the landscape of skincare and aesthetics, bridging the gap between science and practical advice. Dr Sharad shares her insights on how this remarkable book is revolutionising patient education, empowering both professionals and consumers to navigate the intricate world of skincare with confidence and informed choices.

What inspired you to write “The Skincare Answer Book”?

This marks my third book, with the first two titled “Skin Talks” and “Skin Rules”, both achieving best-seller status. To be candid, I initially questioned what more I could contribute in a third installment. However, the dynamics shifted during the lockdown period as Instagram gained immense popularity. My engagement on Instagram revealed a palpable surge in people’s interest in skincare, reflecting a growing thirst for knowledge and self-care. The increased time at home prompted individuals to pay closer attention to their skin’s needs, resulting in a noticeable uptick in skincare awareness. It was a period when many embarked on a journey to understand and prioritise proper skincare practices, highlighting the importance of taking care of one’s skin health. There was also a notable change in people’s attention spans; the era of lengthy YouTube videos was replaced by a demand for concise, two-minute Instagram advice. I recognised a pressing need to raise awareness about proper skincare and steer individuals away from blindly following unqualified influencers. Recognising that people were less inclined to delve into paragraphs and pages, I decided to structure this third book in a Q&A format, aiming to capture and maintain their interest in a more accessible manner.

What makes your book a valuable reference for both professionals and consumers?

The book takes a comprehensive approach to skincare, covering a wide range of topics, from basic skincare routines to advanced treatments, making it suitable for individuals with varying levels of skincare knowledge. The question-and-answer format makes it highly accessible and relatable. Readers can easily find answers to specific skincare queries, making it a practical reference guide for addressing individual concerns. The book does not just offer theoretical knowledge but also includes practical tips and actionable advice that readers can incorporate into their daily skincare routines. It also keeps readers up-to-date with the latest trends, technologies, and product recommendations in the skincare industry, ensuring that the information remains relevant in a rapidly evolving field.

How does the book provide accessible information for consumers while offering in-depth knowledge that can benefit fellow dermatologists?

The book’s Q&A format allows consumers to find quick and straightforward answers to common skincare concerns. It provides concise explanations and actionable advice for everyday skincare practices, making it accessible to a broad audience. While the book simplifies complex skincare topics for consumers, it maintains a strong foundation in scientific research and evidence-based practices. This ensures that the information presented is credible and aligns with the standards expected by dermatologists.

How can dermatologists effectively communicate complex skincare concepts to their patients, drawing from your approach in “The Skincare Answer Book”?

• Avoid using overly technical or medical terminology that might confuse patients. Explain complex concepts in simple, easy-to-understand language. Analogies and metaphors can be helpful in breaking down complex ideas.

• Encourage patients to ask questions and address their concerns. Just as in the book, adopting a questionand-answer format during consultations can help patients grasp the information they need.

• Tailor your explanations to each patient’s specific needs and concerns. Use their individual skin type, condition, and goals as a starting point for discussions.

• Empower patients by educating them about their skin. Explain not only the ‘what’ but also the ‘why’ behind your recommendations. Help patients understand the rationale behind each skincare concept.

• Share real-life examples and case studies to illustrate complex skincare concepts and demonstrate the practical application of your advice.

“ Patients who understand the ‘why’ behind their skincare routines are more likely to adhere to treatment plans. ”

“ The book empowers patients to better comprehend their skin and its needs. ”

• Avoid rushing through explanations. Allocate sufficient time during consultations to ensure patients have the opportunity to absorb and process the information you provide.

The book seems to bridge the gap between dermatological science and practical advice. How do you envision this contributing to a more informed and satisfied patient base for dermatologists?

‘The Skin Care Answer Book’ serves as a valuable bridge between dermatological science and practical advice, and its impact on patients and dermatologists can be substantial:

• Enhanced patient understanding: By simplifying complex dermatological concepts and providing practical advice, the book empowers patients to better comprehend their skin and its needs. This improved understanding can lead to more informed decisions about skincare routines, treatments, and product choices.

• Informed decision-making: Patients armed with knowledge from the book are more likely to make informed decisions about their skincare. They can engage in meaningful discussions with their dermatologists, participate in shared decisionmaking, and better appreciate the rationale behind recommended treatments.

• Higher compliance: Patients who understand the ‘why’ behind their skincare routines are more likely to adhere to treatment plans. This increased compliance can lead to better treatment outcomes and overall skin health.

• Reduced misinformation: The book helps counter the misinformation often found on the internet and social media. Patients are less likely to follow misguided advice from unqualified sources when they have access to reliable and science-backed information.

• Improved patient-dermatologist communication: Patients who have read the book may come to consultations with more informed questions and a clearer understanding of their skin concerns. This fosters more productive and efficient communication between dermatologists and their patients.

• Streamlined consultations: Dermatologists can spend less time explaining basic skincare concepts during consultations, allowing them to focus on more advanced and specific aspects of patient care. This can lead to more efficient appointments.

Your advice for peers on staying current with advancements in the field, especially in an era of rapid innovation and research?

Attend conferences, workshops, and seminars regularly. These events offer opportunities to hear from experts, engage in discussions, and gain insights into the latest developments. Reading peer-reviewed dermatology journals regularly and keeping up with research papers can provide access to cuttingedge findings and clinical studies. Also, explore reputable online resources such as medical websites, forums, and social media groups dedicated to dermatology. These platforms can facilitate discussions, sharing of experiences, and updates on emerging trends. Seek mentorship, and sharing knowledge and experiences can be mutually beneficial and help keep perspectives fresh.

And what words of inspiration do you have for aspiring dermatologists?

• Pursue dermatology with unwavering ‘passion and perseverance’. The journey may be challenging, but your dedication will drive your success.

• Embrace the concept of ‘lifelong learning’. Medicine and skincare are continually evolving fields, so staying updated is essential.

“ Financial success often follows naturally as a byproduct of your dedication to excellence in dermatology. ”

• Always prioritise the ‘well-being of your patients’. Listen to their concerns, communicate effectively, and provide empathetic care.

• Maintain the highest ‘ethical standards’ in your practice. Trust and integrity are the foundations of a successful dermatological career.

• Seek ‘mentorship’ from experienced dermatologists. Their guidance can provide invaluable insights and accelerate your growth.

• Embrace ‘innovation’ while upholding evidence-based practices. Explore new technologies and treatments that can benefit your patients.

• Be prepared to handle challenges and setbacks. Dermatology can be emotionally demanding, so ‘resilience’ is a valuable trait.

As a dermatologist, it is crucial to remember that the practice of medicine, including dermatology, is not merely a business endeavour driven solely by financial gain. While financial sustainability is important, the primary focus should always be on providing high-quality patient care, promoting skin health, and improving the well-being of your patients. When patient care is your central mission, financial success often follows naturally as a byproduct of your dedication to excellence in dermatology.

To book your copy of the book, connect with Dr Jaishree Sharad on Instagram @drjaishreesharad