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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!

As a med student and skincare enthusiast, I’m always on the lookout for fascinating ways nature and science intersect—especially when it comes to protecting our skin. Today’s fun fact? Fern extract may help reduce the severity of sunburns. Yep, you read that right—ferns aren’t just pretty green plants from your grandma’s backyard; they might actually be your skin’s new best friend. ☀️ Meet Polypodium leucotomos This tropical fern, native to Central and South America, has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. But what’s really exciting is how its extract is making waves in the dermatology world. Studies have shown that oral supplementation of Polypodium leucotomos extract (PLE) may offer photoprotection —helping shield the skin from the harmful effects of UV radiation. 🔬 What the Research Says Fern extract isn’t a replacement for sunscreen, but it may help reduce sunburn severity , DNA damage, and oxidative stress when taken orally. Some proposed mechanisms: It h as antioxidant properties that help neutralize free radicals created by UV exposure. It ma y preserve skin architecture , helping protect collagen and prevent UV-induced s kin aging. It seem s to modulate immune responses in the skin, which may reduce inflammation. Several studies have supported the use of PLE as an adjunctive form of sun protection—especially in people with sun-sensitive skin or photosensitive conditions like vitiligo (ME!) or lupus. 👩‍⚕️ Dermatologist's Take (who told me about this) While this isn't a substitute for broad-spectrum sunscreen (reapply every 2 hours!), fern extract could be a promising supplement to enhance protection—especially if you're outdoors frequently, have a history of skin cancer, or deal with photosensitive conditions. It’s a beautiful example of how natural compounds are being validated by science and could become part of our evidence-based skincare toolkit. So next time you’re studying in the sun (or beach-bound for a well-earned break), remember: sunscreen is a must, but a little fern-powered backup might not hurt either.

The day before Step 2 CK is a unique blend of excitement, nerves, and preparation. Over the years, I’ve learned that how you spend this day can make a huge difference in your mindset and performance on test day. It’s not just about studying harder—it’s about being strategic, calm, and intentional. Here’s a detailed look at my day-before routine that helps me feel grounded and ready. Early Morning: Start Strong with Anki and High-Yield Review I’m an early riser on purpose (I normally am not an early riser)—I wake up at 5 AM. I know it sounds intense, but by getting up this early, it ensures that I will be able to fall asleep that night, even with all the nerves. The first thing I do is complete my Anki cards due that day. This isn’t about cramming; it’s about reinforcing what I’ve already learned and keeping my recall sharp. Anki has been my constant companion throughout 3rd year of medical school, and I trust it to keep my memory fresh. After Anki, I dive into my high-yield (HY) document. This is a personalized compilation of the most important facts and concepts I need to know for Step 2 CK. I highlight even more key points as I review, focusing on topics I want to revisit first thing the next morning. This targeted approach prevents overwhelm and ensures I’m prioritizing the right material. Moving My Body: The Power of Exercise I never skip a workout on the day before the exam. Whether it’s a quick run, or a high inclined walk, exercise helps me manage stress and boosts my mood. It’s amazing how much clarity and calm a little sweat can bring. Plus, it helps me avoid feeling cooped up or anxious. Podcasts for Motivation and Last-Minute Pearls I have a few go-to podcasts that I listen to religiously before exams. On this day, I tuned into HY Divine episodes 123, 27, and 325. These episodes are packed with high-yield facts about ethics, screening guidelines, and risk factors that always help me day of exam. The Hotel Hack: Reducing Stress by Staying Close Since the testing center is usually far from where I live, I always book a hotel nearby for the night before. This is one of my best-kept secrets for reducing stress. No worrying about traffic, parking, or last-minute delays. Just a calm, short trip to the exam center in the morning. It’s worth every penny for the peace of mind it brings. Sometimes I even travel to the testing facility the day before to make sure I know where I will be going the next day. Connection and Calm: Family and Faith At some point during the day before, I call my parents. Hearing their voices and words of encouragement always calms my nerves. It reminds me that I’m not alone in this journey. I also take a few moments to pray, grounding myself spiritually and mentally. This practice centers me and helps me focus on the bigger picture beyond the exam. My Superstitious Comfort Food: Chicken Parm from Olive Garden I’m a little superstitious, and I’ve developed a tradition of ordering the same meal the night before every board exam: chicken parmesan from Olive Garden. It’s silly, but this ritual helps me get into the right mindset. It’s comforting, familiar, and signals to my brain that it’s time to focus and perform. Caffeine Prep and Relaxation I pick up my Starbucks matcha + espresso drink for test day and put it in a thermos. Having this ready the night before means one less thing to worry about in the morning. Once at the hotel, I relax by watching TV and using my suboccipital release tool—a lifesaver for tension headaches and neck tightness. I try to avoid screens too close to bedtime, but a little light entertainment helps me unwind. Bedtime Routine: Essential Oils and Early Sleep By 10 PM, I’m in bed with my essential oils diffusing around me. Good sleep is non-negotiable. I remind myself that rest is just as important as study. Final Thoughts The day before Step 2 CK isn’t about frantic last-minute studying. It’s about setting yourself up mentally, physically, and emotionally for success. My rituals—from early Anki to Olive Garden chicken parm—might seem quirky, but they work for me. Find what calms your brain and stick to it. You’ve done the work. Now it’s time to trust yourself and get ready to crush the exam.

J Janeway lesions Etiology: Cause: S. aureus (mostly), S. viridans (anything that can increase IC deposition) Description: painless, flat erythematous macules Locations: palms and soles Jaundice Etiology: Cause: high levels of bilirubin Description: yellowing of tissues Juvenile Spring Eruption Etiology: Define: type of PMLE Location: ears At risk: children + young adults during early spring Appearance: small, red, and sometimes itchy papules and vesicles on the helix of ear after exposure to sunlight, especially in cold weather A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

K Kaposi Syndrome Etiology: Cause: HHV-8 Description: violaceous lesions Location: LE, face, nose + hard palate Kawasaki Disease Etiology: Medium-vessel vasculitis Description: polymorphous / morbilliform (measles like) / targetoid skin lesions -> desquamating rash (peeling of extremities) Location: trunk and extremities Keloid Etiology: Cause: dysregulation of the normal healing process resulting in excessive production of collagen, elastin, proteoglycans, and extracellular matrix proteins Description: Purplish-red, firm, smooth, and raised; can occur years after injury and grows beyond the initiating wound area Keratoacanthoma (KA) Etiology: Cause: UV light + carcinogens Description: dome shaped nodules that rapidly grows in 4-6 weeks; spontaneously regresses in most cases (50%) Keratoderma Blennorrhagica Etiology: Associated with: reactive arthritis (Chlamydia) Description: painless desquamative psoriatic-like papulosquamous eruption Location: commonly found on the palms + soles but may spread to the scrotum, scalp, + trunk Keratosis Pilaris (KP) Etiology: Cause: abnormal keratinization of the upper portion lining of the hair follicle Description: ‘goosebump’ or ‘chicken skin’ appearance Location: most common on posterior arms Keratosis spinulosa Etiology: KID Syndrome Etiology: Associated conditions: blindness, alopecia, deafness A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

G Genital Herpes Etiology: Cause: HSV2 Description: painful, clear vesicles sitting on top of an erythematous base - “dew drops on a rose petal appearance” Giant cell fibroblastoma Etiology: Define: pediatric variant of DFSP Appearance: Histo: pseudovascular spaces, hypocellular psindle cells with myxoid background At risk: <5 yo Location: thigh, groin, trunk Tx: wide excision, MOHs Giant cell tumor of tendon sheath Etiology: Location: hands, digits Histo: multinodule oval shaped, darker in color, giant cells (chocolate chip cookies with extra chips and a ring of pink around it), hypercellular; pools of free floating mononuclear histiocytoid tumor cells that can form a halo of hemosiderin around it Giant condyloma acuminatum (GCA) / Buschke-Löwenstein tumor Etiology: Cause: HPV 6,11 Description: slow-growing, cauliflower-like warty tumor with cobblestone surface Giant Congenital Melanocytic Nevus / Bathing Trunk Nevus Etiology: Description: a proliferation of benign melanocytes that are present at birth or develop shortly after birth that is >20 cm Giant Molluscum Contagiosum Etiology: At risk: HIV, immunocompromised Appearance: dome-shaped, flesh-colored papules with a central indentation; >10-15 mm Location: trunk, armpits, and genital area Tx: cryotherapy, curettage, laser therapy, topical cantharidin, tretinoin, or podophyllotoxin Prog: Most cases resolve on their own within months to a couple of years Gianotti-Crosti Syndrome / Infantile Papular Acrodermatitis Etiology: Cause: reaction to a systemic viral infection (URI or GI); #1 virus = EBV Description: papules 5–10 mm in diameter and are a deep red color Location: develops first on the thighs and buttocks, then on the outer aspects of the arms, and finally on the face At risk: children between the ages of 6 months and 12 years Glomus tumor / glomangioma Etiology: Gorlin Syndrome / Nevoid Basal Cell Carcinoma (NBCCS) Etiology: Define: prone to developing multiple BCCs, often starting in adolescence or early adulthood Inheritance: AD Appearance: flesh-colored or reddish-brown spots to pearly or shiny bumps Cause: AD mutation to patched (PTCH) gene C9q Description: skin tags + skin cysts (blue nevi) on face + body with multiple basal cell carcinomas Graft vs Host Disease Etiology: Cause: transplant rejection where immunocompetent T cells reject host cells with "foreign" proteins Description: mild rash may be slightly sore or itchy and look like a minor sunburn Granuloma Annularae Etiology: Appearance: violasceous annular plaque with scale Sx: itchy Histo: surrounded by lots of mucin vs. tinea (no scale) Tx: Rinvoq, UVB, Niacinamide, Zoryve Granuloma Inguinale / Donovanosis Etiology: Cause: Klebsiella granulomatis Description: nodules that appear on genitalia or inguinal area that are painless, raised, beefy red, moist, smooth, and foul-smelling Granulomatosis Infantiseptica Etiology: Cause: Listeria monocytogenes in neonates Description: pyogenic granulomas distributed over the whole body Grey-Turner sign Etiology: Cause: retroperitoneal bleeding (kidney laceration) Description: ecchymosis on flanks A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z