Q+A with Dermatologist Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose

Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose is a board-certified dermatologist based out of New York, practicing in both NYC and the Hamptons. Best known for her leading-edge facial rejuvenation techniques including injectable fillers, botulinum toxin injections, and advanced laser procedures, she also has incredible experience making a difference with an audience outside of her office as well, as she's been tapped by top publications like Vogue and Allure, among others, to provide her vast expertise on skincare. In our latest Q+A, we sit down with Dr. Murphy-Rose to discuss how what sets dermatology apart from other aspects of medicine, the teamwork she feels between her and her patients, and more.

Q: First and foremost, we’d love to hear about your journey in dermatology. How did you get started, and how did you end up where you are today?

During my first year of medical school, a preceptorship program was offered in which you could shadow a senior physician in an area of interest. I chose dermatology. I was always drawn to skincare — I loved the idea of it, but didn’t have a great deal of knowledge about it. I quickly fell in love! I was fascinated by the seemingly endless number of illnesses and skin conditions, the diversity of the patients, the interesting tools and procedures — but most of all I was captivated by the massive difference I could make in another person’s life through the field of dermatology.

I learned very quickly how as a dermatologist, you can make a very big impact on someone's life. I was, and still am, drawn to dermatology in particular because the conditions are on the outside — they aren’t problems you can hide. I connected deeply with my patients who cared as much as I did about their treatment. They were deeply affected by their ailments, both physically and emotionally. From the start, I loved teaming up with my patients to tackle their problems. I felt like that was much more the case than in other fields where, say, you're telling somebody they have high blood pressure, and it's going to harm them long term, but they can't see it and can't even feel it. In other fields, it often felt like I had to nag or harp at my patients to take care of themselves, whereas in dermatology it feels like my patients and I are teaming up and working together. I love that aspect of it.

Plus, being able to just see the problem and use primarily visual clues to make a diagnosis is a very fun part of the challenging field of dermatology.

Then of course the other side of dermatology is the cosmetics work, which I am also passionate about. I've always loved art and being creative, so I thoroughly enjoy the artistic side of dermatology and making my patients look and feel like the best version of themselves.

Q: What do you love the most about what you do?

If I had to pick one thing, it’s making patients feel their best and helping them to achieve that whatever it is they are dreaming of — whether it's clearing psoriasis or eczema, or spotting a skin cancer and treating it, or reducing acne scars, or tightening their jawline, or enhancing their lip. As wide of a spectrum as there is in dermatology, what I love most is definitely teaming up with my patients and making them feel their best — that’s what gets me most excited to go to work each morning.

Q: You have talked about how your approach to dermatology is a blend of science and artistry. We would love to hear about your favorite part about marrying these two concepts!

As a medical and cosmetic dermatologist to whom many entrust their health and appearance, it is essential for me to stay abreast of the latest and greatest technology and science-backed skincare practices. I then employ all of that cutting-edge information to guide my analysis, decision-making, and ultimately my treatment recommendations — all while utilizing my artistic instincts and aesthetic eye to achieve each patient’s individual goals. It boils down to using the latest science, technology, and art in tandem to deliver results.

Q: What is a myth about skincare that you want to debunk?

So many! An important one is that you only need to moisturize if you have dry skin. Even those with oily or acne-prone skin typically need to moisturize. And on the flip side of that is the myth that face oils won't clog pores. There is a huge craze around oils these days in the skincare world, and many people who should not be are using face oils, leading to breakouts. Better for acne-prone skin is usually a light moisturizing lotion.

Q: You're known for your leading facial rejuvenation techniques, like fillers, injections, and laser procedures. Do you have any go-to skincare products for achieving skin-renewing results at home?

Absolutely. Keeping your skin healthy and supple is so important for maintaining a youthful appearance. A great product containing retinol (or another Vitamin A-based topical) or hydroxy acids can do wonders for your skin, when used properly. These are two of the best ways to stimulate collagen and prevent signs of aging at home. See my “worth the splurge” responses below. I love what Alastin and SkinBetter Science are doing.

Q: What is one product everyone should be using, no matter what their skin type?

As long as you’re not pregnant or trying to conceive, most people should use a vitamin A product at night to achieve their best skin and to ward off signs of aging.

Q: What is your best advice for someone who is struggling to find a skin routine that works for them?

See a reputable board-certified dermatologist who can look at your skin and make individualized recommendations. What works for your friend or is trending on TikTok may not necessarily work for you, and you shouldn’t feel responsible for diagnosing your own skin. We are here to help!

Q: You're frequently featured in the media in top publications as a skincare expert. How did you get your start contributing to the media? What is your favorite part about bringing your knowledge to the masses?

Editors would reach out for info and tips on various topics — sometimes for articles and sometimes for their own personal interest. I love being able to share my insight with the masses this way! It’s so satisfying to reach and help people around the world who can’t make it into my office.

Q: What do you wish people were talking more about in skincare?

I love that skincare is a hot topic and beloved by so many. At parties or even just at the park with my toddler, people will ask about skin health and everything related to beauty. It’s fun that my passion is also a popular talking point among the general public. What do I wish people were talking about more? I’d say keeping a skincare routine simple. More is not necessarily better, and excessive interventions often can have negative effects. We live in a society where people are often seeking more, more, more in every area of life, and I wish people would talk about the very significant benefits of LESS!

Rapid Fire Round

Q: Worth the splurge:

Alastin Renewal Retinol or SkinBetter Science AlphaRet Overnight Cream.

Q: Favorite drugstore or budget find:

Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover.

Q: Latest beauty empty:

Bobbi Brown Bronzing Powder in Medium.

Q: Recent discovery:

I am always trying out new skincare products and one I recently experimented with and am excited about is ISDIN Melatonik Recovery Night Serum. This product is best for mature or dry skin. It is formulated as a serum-in-oil and just a few drops massaged onto the face, neck, and decolletage each night will help to combat environmental stressors and prevent skin aging. Bakuchiol is a retinol alternative that stimulates collagen production with reduced risk of skin irritation, and Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that fights free radical damage while reducing hyperpigmentation. You can even use it while pregnant or breastfeeding.

Q: Product you can’t leave home without:

In the fall and winter, Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Cream.

For more of Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose's favorite products, check out her shop: