“I want my work to shed light on how we define beauty, where those definitions come from, and how we can reclaim them in healthier, more empowering ways.”
We are delighted to introduce touchDERMATOLOGY Future Leader, Dr Neelam Vashi, a highly accomplished dermatologist widely recognized for her expertise in cosmetic dermatology, skin of colour and laser medicine.
As the founder of Vashi Dermatology—a concierge-level private practice known for its advanced, personalized care—and former Associate Professor of Dermatology at Boston University—where she directed the Cosmetic and Laser Center and founded the Center for Ethnic Skin—Dr Vashi has advanced the field through research, education and patient-centered innovation.
A rising force in dermatology, she has authored over 100 peer-reviewed publications and four textbooks. Her work has earned high-level recognition, including the Norman Orentreich Excellence in Research Award, the AAD Presidential Citation and designation as a World Expert in Hyperpigmentation. Dr Vashi also maintains a strong media presence, with features in outlets such as The NY Times, Oprah Magazine, CNN, Forbes and The Boston Globe.
In this Q&A, Dr Vashi shares the values and experiences that shaped her journey in dermatology, her perspective on patient-centred innovation, and her vision for a more authentic understanding of beauty.
My path in dermatology was shaped long before I entered medical school. It began with my parents, who instilled in me the value of hard work, discipline and humility. From them, I learned that success isn’t defined by recognition but by persistence and purpose.
Along the way, I was fortunate to be mentored by strong, visionary women in medicine and leadership during my time at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. They inspired me to reach beyond expectations, aim high, and speak up with both confidence and heart.
But perhaps the most unexpected and joyful source of inspiration has come from my own mentees. Watching their growth, creativity and curiosity has made my work endlessly rewarding. They’ve challenged me to keep evolving, not just as a physician or researcher, but as a human being. They have taught me that true leadership isn’t about titles or power—it’s about integrity, empathy and courage. True leaders listen, advocate and take responsibility. Because when leadership becomes performative, self-serving, or detached from the people it’s meant to support, it fails everyone it touches.
What excites me the most isn’t a device or a drug; it’s the quiet but powerful shift back to the patient. In an era where technology and documentation demands have often distanced us from the human side of medicine, I find that true innovation lies in creating systems that restore that connection. Streamlining administrative burdens, rethinking practice models, and using our time and tools more intentionally are the changes that allow us to show up fully for our patients.
After years in academic medicine, I made the decision to transition into a model of care where I could focus more intimately on the patient experience. It was a thoughtful and deeply personal choice, and one that has brought me a renewed sense of joy and fulfillment in my daily work. Building real relationships, offering personalized care, and having the freedom to align my clinical work with my values has reminded me why I entered this field in the first place.
I hope my legacy helps guide the conversation about beauty back to a place of honesty and intention. Through my research on beauty standards and the influence of social media, I’ve seen how easily perception can be distorted, how curated images, unrealistic ideals, and digital filters can quietly erode self-esteem, especially in younger generations. I want my work to shed light on how we define beauty, where those definitions come from, and how we can reclaim them in healthier, more empowering ways.
My goal has never been to chase trends, but to understand them, and to help people build awareness around the forces that shape their habits, choices and self-worth. I hope I’ve contributed to a movement that encourages simplicity over perfection, truth over filters and confidence rooted in authenticity. If I’ve helped shift the narrative (just a little) toward a more grounded, inclusive and compassionate vision of beauty, then I’ll feel I’ve done something meaningful.
Disclosures: This short article was prepared by touchDERMATOLOGY in collaboration with Dr Vashi. No fees or funding were associated with its publication.
touchDERMATOLOGY is celebrating the brightest rising stars in the dermatology community, who are set to shape the future of the field.
Read more about the touchDERMATOLOGY Future Leaders 2025 here.
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