Why it matters that SEEN was developed by a dermatologist

If you had a problem with your foot, you wouldn’t schedule an appointment with a cardiologist, right? We all understand the importance of seeing the proper medical specialist for specific concerns, and the same goes for your skin and hair. 

Dermatologists are the only medical doctors who are trained exclusively in the treatment of the skin, hair, and nails—and becoming a dermatologist is no easy feat. After four years of college, four years of medical school, a one-year internship, at least three years in residency, obtaining board certification through vigorous exams, and an additional year of training to specialize further (if desired), a dermatologist can start to see patients in a clinical setting or open their own practice. That’s at least 12 years after graduating high school!

SEEN founder (and Harvard-trained dermatologist) Dr. Iris Rubin has always loved science and how things work. She recalls, “As a child I never liked to see anyone suffering,” so her goal of becoming a doctor came as no surprise. Her initial interest in internal medicine turned to dermatology once she discovered the visual aspect of this specialty. As someone who has never been able to pass up an opportunity to fix things, she was especially drawn to using lasers for treating kids with disfiguring birthmarks and scars.

When to see a dermatologist
Simply put: You should see a dermatologist once a year (even if you have no skin, hair, or nail concerns). This annual visit allows your doctor to perform a full-body exam to check for skin cancer and potentially precancerous moles, and gives you a chance to discuss any concerns you may have. Between annual appointments, some reasons you should schedule an appointment with your dermatologist include:

• You notice any changes in freckles or moles
• Acne can no longer be controlled with over-the-counter products
• You experience ongoing skin redness, itching, irritation, or excessively dry skin and can’t seem to identify the cause
• You begin to notice hair thinning or loss
• Over-the-counter products don’t help scalp itching or flaking—or if you develop crusting or scaling
• You begin to notice hair thinning or loss
• You’re unhappy with the appearance of scars
• Your nails experience changes in color or texture

The advantages of dermatologist-developed hair and skin products 
During their (at least) 12 years of training, dermatologists see thousands of patients experiencing the full spectrum of skin, hair, and nail issues and concerns. Some dermatologists use this practical experience to create their own product lines—which is the case with Dr. Rubin and SEEN.

Throughout her residency and clinical practice, Dr. Rubin couldn’t ignore the effect acne had on patients’ confidence and self-esteem. She also saw their frustration when their own treatment efforts had failed. Dr. Rubin then experienced a personal struggle with acne. After keeping a lab notebook to track her breakouts, she realized that the hair-care products her salon was using were contributing to her breakouts. This was the “a-ha” moment that began the process of turning the idea for SEEN into a reality.

SEEN combines Dr. Rubin’s extensive dermatological expertise with a luxurious—and effective—hair and skincare experience. She believes that no one should have to choose between gorgeous hair or healthy skin, and SEEN helps deliver both for all.

What other dermatologists have to say about SEEN…