Derm Dream Bag: My Dermatology Audition Rotation Essentials

Carrying the right items can turn a hectic audition day in dermatology into a smoother, more enjoyable experience. Here’s what I always pack in my beloved Poppy & Peonies tote—a bag that truly fits my life as a busy medical student in the clinic.

https://us.poppyandpeonies.com/collections/totes/products/go-getter-tote-cognac

Every morning starts with packing my non-negotiable supplies, ensuring I'm prepared for anything the day throws at me. Here are the key items I never leave home without:

• Lululemon Water Bottle (with a Lid): A must for staying hydrated, plus a lid or straw prevents any accidental spills.

  • https://shop.lululemon.com/p/water-bottles/Back-To-Life-Sport-Bottle-MD/_/prod10390301?color=31382&sz=ONESIZE

• Vaseline (Pink!) and L’Oréal Paris Plump Ambition Lip Gloss: Hydrated, plump lips keep me comfortable and confident all day—thanks, sis, for the new favorite gloss!

  • https://www.vaseline.com/us/en/p/vaseline-lip-therapy-rosy-mini.html/00305210231597

  • https://www.vaseline.com/us/en/p/vaseline-lip-therapy-rosy-lips-stick.html/00859581006853

  • https://www.lorealparisusa.com/makeup/lip-color/lip-gloss/plump-ambition-hyaluron-lip-oil-milky-nu-201

• Medication Kit: I keep ibuprofen, Tums, and cough drops on hand for any sudden headaches or sore throats.

• Compact Umbrella: For surprise weather—nothing ruins a clinic day like being drenched.

• Fanny Pack with Wallet: When the day ends, I just grab my fanny pack (“belt bag” just doesn’t sound right) and leave the big tote behind.

• Study Materials:

  • MedStudy Dermatology Core Book: My go-to in between patients for quick learning. No scrolling on my phone—looks much more professional.

    • https://medstudy.com/collections/shop-all/products/medical-school-books

  • Dermatology Pocket Guide, 5th Edition: Sometimes I seriously feel like a coach prepping my playbook!

    • https://www.amazon.com/Dermatology-Dosing-Workup-Management-Card/dp/B074HG5FRC/ref=sr_1_19_sspa?crid=Z123YL7FCNI6&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.VI-DRhJHASRf1XGdhxSF5cSNcAaekNTYw-ifZl5o8nVUKhHZBzZECIESdX5D7Ee6P9Q6CrNwVp-4JtniaOWcR00QAuoLCZDsoxuCn-Nfck8LR2KYgeK3BMwku7woPFyLte_3DOf3Cioz4HL0zfkEDgiOMWSHzZLgSd0b72YLJct9sCXGFKFbNPb_6CQIbTFaV_LMdvW98YqG6ptAwxmJCOgu_LkqcVd4jXRuVkWGd2I.uMZmsB70UMIWU71OQlDtXSXE8o3xH8ftqBpG2sMm3ww&dib_tag=se&keywords=dermatology+pocket+guide&qid=1753487683&sprefix=dermatology+po%2Caps%2C178&sr=8-19-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9idGY&psc=1

  • English to Spanish Pocket Dermatology Guide by Dermlink Scholars: Perfect for bridging language gaps in patient care.

    • https://www.medlinkscholars.com/store/p/english-to-spanish-dermatology-guide

• Derm Must-Haves:

  • MadHippie Mineral-Based Sunscreen: Because being “sun smart” is foundational in dermatology!

    • https://madhippie.com/collections/suncare/products/ultra-sheer-body-spf

  • Coola Scalp Sunscreen Spray: Protects my scalp without leaving any greasy residue.

    • https://coola.com/products/scalp-and-hair-spf-30-organic-sunscreen-spray

  • Derm Samples (Cerave, Cetaphil, La Roche-Posay, Eucerin, Aquaphor): Not only for sharing with patients, but essential for myself too.

• Stationery: A collection of the best pens, a highlighter for my textbooks, and of course, my glasses—because reading tiny print and screens is a daily must.

• Technology: My laptop, charger, iPad, and AirPods are stowed and ready for studying and notes anytime a break pops up.

• Little Luxuries & Survival Tools:

  • Stress Away Roll-On Essential Oil: My trick for stressful moments or particularly busy days.

  • Gum: Great for freshening up between patient encounters.

  • Extra Hair Ties and Tide To Go Pen: For high ponytail emergencies or inevitable coffee drips on my white coat.

• Food & Snacks:

  • Packed Lunch: I always bring a PB&J sandwich, because it’s better to be prepared than to assume food will be available.

  • High-Protein Snacks: Pistachios and sometimes an apple, and for breakfast, a high-protein yogurt and banana keep me fueled.

Having these essentials in my tote makes every audition rotation less stressful and more enjoyable. My bag isn’t just for organization—it reflects how I bring a little fun, efficiency, and self-care to every clinic day. If you see me—and my overstuffed (but well-loved) Poppy & Peonies tote—no you didn't, hahah!