Recently, I was honored with the opportunity to interview renowned dermatologist, author, and entrepreneur Dr. Jeanette Jacknin, M.D. Based out of Scottsdale, Arizona, Dr. Jacknin is a board-certified practicing dermatologist with a unique expertise in natural, holistic skin care. Her expertise in the natural is evident in her J.J. M.D. Skin Care line, which features a blend of botanicals, antioxidants, vitamins, and cutting- edge technology. Welcome to the site, Dr. Jacknin!
1. On your website, it says that you have long had an interest in both traditional/medicinal and natural/holistic skin care. What inspired you to enjoy both approaches?
I was traditionally trained as a physician and dermatologist at the University of Virginia and the Medical College of Virginia. However, I moved out West to Scottsdale, Arizona 14 years ago. Here, like in California, people were very open to natural, naturopathic and holistic approaches back then. I was interested in learning new approaches to medicine and dermatology. There was some early research documenting the effectiveness of some of these natural treatments, but no comprehensive book detailing the science behind natural solutions and integrating traditional and natural approaches to skin care. I took a lot of pleasure (and it took a lot of work at a time when one still went to a library and used a card catalogue!!) in writing my 400 page book “Smart Medicine for Your Skin” on holistic dermatology. I was lucky enough to have Penguin-Putnam publish it, and it is now available on my website www.drjacknin.com.
2. What is the accomplishment (in your career or otherwise) of which you are most proud?
I am very proud of being a Chief Resident in Dermatology, as it is a highly competitive field. I’m also proud of writing a book which was published by a leading publisher and of founding a holistic dermatology skin care company. I also consider myself an ethical, good person. But I think I’m most proud of my daughter Lauren and my important role as her mother.
3. What has been the greatest difficulty you have encountered in starting and maintaining your own successful practice?
I think when you join a multispecialty group as I did; the people you are working with are the most important. This is at least as important as the location, patients, or money, because if they are not ethical or compatible, it is hard to be happy at work.
4. What do you feel is the key to your success?
I think the key to my success is persistence, drive, determination, a positive attitude, and an interest in learning and growing constantly. I used to be a perfectionist as a physician, but I learned in business that missteps are unavoidable and you just need to accept them, learn from them and move forward.
5. Who are your role models?
My father was my earliest role model. He was brilliant, warm, ethical, had a positive attitude and a natural interest in learning and growing. Dr. Zoe Draelos, Dr. [Howard] Murad, and Dr. Barbara Gilchrest are all very inspiring dermatologists whom I follow as role models.
6. Do you or your staff like to consult with other dermatologists?
I think it’s always valuable to consult with other dermatologists and go to group conferences and patient presentations. We are lucky in Scottsdale to have the bright dermatologists at the Mayo Clinic nearby in addition to those who are part of the Phoenix Dermatology group.
7. What would you like to see be developed in the realm of skin care next?
Human skin stem cell stimulation with topical peptides, telomerases, and plant stem cells is very interesting. I imagine science will take it one step further and be able to individualize skin care and other health treatments to each of our unique DNA and body chemistry. Of course, a treatment for advanced malignant melanoma with 100% cure and prevention rate is the most important.
8. What beauty and skin care products can’t you live without?
I love all the Free and Clear products…soap, moisturizer, shampoo and conditioner, as I have sensitivities myself. All pharmacists can order them for you without a prescription and Wal-Mart also carries the line. [Editor’s note: Online, DermaDoctor carries Free and Clear via Amazon.com as well as on its own.] Of course I can’t live with my own line, especially the JJMD Age Tackler and JJMD Total Eye Revitalizer.
9. What are your greatest beauty secrets?
Sunscreen at least SPF #30 every morning is a must, as is a healthy lifestyle with natural food, pure water, exercise, stress reduction, and good sleep. There are many anti-aging skin creams which work well with consistent use, but of course my favorite is my own JJMD line, available at www.JJMDskincare.com!
10. Do you read any beauty blogs regularly?
I love your FutureDerm.com website! I’m so impressed that you take the precious time during med school to write such in-depth scientific reviews of new products. I also love Cosmeticsdesign.com with the latest industry info, although it’s not strictly a blog.
Thank you for your excellent interview, Dr. Jacknin! Please be sure to check out Dr. Jacknin’s website at JJMDSkincare.com for more information on Dr. Jacknin and her products.
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If you are a board-certified, licensed dermatologist or skin care expert who is interested in being considered for being interviewed in an upcoming post, please contact me at Nicki [at] FutureDerm [dot] com. Thank you! 🙂