Student in the library, 1981, a photo by LSE Library on Flickr.

Dear Nicki,

I’m a first-year med student and fan of your blog. Thinking about emergency med. How do you find the time? Do you recommend that I start a blog too? Will it help me match?

-MedStudent

Dear MedStudent,

I write on a blog because I love to do it. Period.

I honestly do not know if it is advisable or not to do what I have done. Probably not. I have talked to advisors who have told me it is ludicrous to publish my name on a beauty blog, as some traditionalists in medicine look upon endorsing products and such disfavorably, even after completing a dermatology residency. Conversely, I have mentors and colleagues who have said I am building credibility with well-researched articles and fans while still in medical school.

I am interested in three things in my career:

• 1.) Advocating the public on their available choices in skin, hair, and beauty products;
• 2.) Innovating the skin care and beauty industry with novel technologies and breakthroughs. Not just putting my name on any old product, but inventing revolutionary therapeutic creams and devices proven to work;
• 3.) Working hard and with integrity. Becoming one of the best in the world at what I do.