Dr. Missy Clifton of Premier Dermatology in Bentonville gives us some summer skincare tips and shares what she most loves about her job as a dermatologist. For more info on Premier Dermatology, visit: http://www.premierderm.net/
What is your favorite thing about being a dermatologist?
Getting to know so many great people by seeing them as patients. It is a real joy to treat skin problems and skin cancers and really make a difference in someone’s life. It is also so much fun to address a person’s cosmetic concerns and see what a difference our treatments make in their self-esteem.
What made you choose dermatology?
I love dermatology because it allows me to treat patients of all ages, races and both men and women. The diversity makes every day unique, challenging and fun.
What is the secret to creating and maintaining a successful business?
We try to treat everyone who comes into our clinic as if they are a member of the family. People know that we truly care about them and want to work with them to treat their concerns. When people are happy, they tend to send friends and family to us as well.
What is the best advice you have been given?
My mom taught me that work is a joy and that I should have a profession that I love so that everyday is enjoyable and not a chore. Thankfully, I have a great job.
What is your favorite thing about summer?
I have more low-key time with family and friends. With no homework, no school and fewer kids’ activities, we get more quality time on the lake or just chilling out at home around the pool. (with sunblock of course)
What are 3 ways we can care for our skin this summer?
(1) Wear a good sunscreen everyday. (SPF 15 or above)
(2) When in the water or outdoors, re-apply every couple of hours.
(3) Pick the right sunscreen active ingredients: titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, helioplex and mexoryl are my favorites.
What is the most common mistake people make when it comes to caring for their skin?
The most common mistake people make regarding their skin is thinking that everyone’s skin is the same. They often think any product or product line they find will work for them. That’s why we offer complementary skin analysis to all our patients so they know the products they buy will work for their skin type.
How has your company connected with the local Arkansas community?
We are very involved both as a company and as individuals in many charities. Specifically, we offer free skin cancer clinics and staff screening clinics in Bella Vista, Springdale and Harrison every year. We choose a specific charity each year that we send a portion of our open house proceeds to. Last time, it was given to the NWA Children’s Shelter.
What nonprofit organizations are you personally involved with?
The Skin Cancer Foundation
The Cancer Challenge of NWA
The National Psoriasis Foundation
Arts Center of the Ozarks
The American Heart Association
The Boys and Girls Club of Benton County
Miss Jan’s School of Charm and Manners
What got you involved in these nonprofits?
Many of them are near and dear to my heart because they help people with skin cancer and serious skin conditions. I love the arts and have enjoyed working with and attending the Arts Center of the Ozarks since moving to NWA. They offer great classes and wonderful shows that really enrich the community. I think it is important to invest time in our children, so I love the Boys and Girls Club. I also feel that good manners and social etiquette has fallen to the wayside, and I love that Miss Jan is trying to address that.
What is your favorite part of living in NWA?
NWA feels like a melting pot representing the entire country because so many people move here with the big industries in our area. This adds diversity to our area that makes it special.
By Mary Grace Joseph for 3W Magazine.