Whether it’s a medication to soothe a painful skin condition or a cutting-edge anti-aging treatment, all innovations in dermatology hinge on clinical trials to prove their efficacy for future patients around the country. At this moment, Schlessinger MD Research Center and its research arm, Advanced Skin Research Center, have more than 20 clinical trials ranging from psoriasis to wrinkle treatments.

At Schlessinger MD Research Center directed by board-certified dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon Dr. Joel Schlessinger, participating in research studies is a major focus all year round. The center has been participating in clinical trials to help advance innovation in skin health and care since 1993.

“Taking part in research studies is truly something that distinguishes our practice,” says Dr. Schlessinger. “There are so many conditions that simply don’t have a cure yet and clinical research is not only essential to develop new treatments and medications, but it allows us the opportunity to have new treatments before every other clinic in our area, and sometimes before any clinic in the nation. It is a gamechanger for many challenging conditions.”

Recent milestones

Schlessinger MD Skin Research Center has garnered some exciting honors this year. In March 2022, Abbvie recognized Schlessinger MD as the No. 1 trial enroller. In May 2022, The FDA approved Dermavant’s VTAMA cream, a topical treatment for plaque psoriasis in adults that Dr. Schlessigner and his team worked on for years prior to approval.

Looking back to last year, Schlessinger MD was also part of the clinical trials for Qwo, an injectable anti-cellulite treatment, which debuted in spring 2021. “We participated in the Qwo trials with one of the largest groups of enrollees in the country,” Dr. Schlessinger says. “As the first injectable treatment for cellulite, it’s really a huge leap in treatment for all women due to its ease of use and solid results.”

Active studies in progress

Schlessinger MD Skin Research Center may be participating in up to 25 clinical research trials at any given time. Right now, the center is taking part in clinical trials for individuals who have skin conditions such as acne, psoriasis, staph infections and atopic dermatitis. The center is also conducting cosmetic surgery trials for people who have significant mid-face volume loss or moderate-to-severe glabellar lines (frown lines between the eyebrows) and have previously been treated with injectables such as Botox, Dysport, Jeaveau or Xeomin.

To learn more about and register for clinical studies with Schlessinger MD, you can check out the full list of current trials here.