EltaMD Rings Bell at New York Stock Exchange as Continued Celebration of National Dermatologist Day

EltaMD Skin Care, a leading dermatologist-recommend skin and sun care brand in the US, joined several dermatologists to participate in the New York Stock Exchange's (NYSE) ringing of the bell yesterday, March 28, as a continuation of its celebration of National Dermatologist Day.

Earlier this month, EltaMD announced the establishment of the first annual National Dermatologist Day, a day dedicated to honoring the vital contributions of dermatologists in promoting skin health and combating skin cancer.¹ Planned to be recognized annually on March 13, the initiative aims to recognize the expertise and dedication of dermatologists who play a pivotal role in early skin cancer detection and public education on sun safety.

The tradition of ringing bells at the NYSE dates back to the 1870s when continuous trading began. The tradition of bell-ringing holds significance, connecting to the Exchange's history. Throughout the years, various individuals, including the first guest in 1956, have had the honor of ringing the opening bell.²

"Ringing the bell at the New York Stock Exchange has always been a way to announce the most iconic initiatives, and this is no different," said Echo Sandburg, MBA, chief brand officer at CP Skin Health Group. "Establishing National Dermatologist Day is a proud moment for EltaMD, and the ringing of the bell in an honor that gives credibility to the holiday and most importantly our deserving, esteemed dermatologist community."

Joined by dermatologists such as Mona Gohara, MD, FAAD; Michelle Henry, MD; and Dhaval Bhanusali, MD, FAAD, the event aimed to continue efforts to bridge the gap between skin care awareness and public understanding.

Gohara, an active member of The American Academy of Dermatology and The American Society For Dermatologic Surgery, highlighted the importance of events like these in expanding awareness and education to save lives.

"As a dermatologist, I admire EltaMD's commitment to sun safety and skin care," Gohara said. "Being here at the New York Stock Exchange to underscore their appreciation for the dermatologist community is indescribable. I can confidently say on behalf of all dermatologists that this is an incredible honor."

The significance of National Dermatologist Day extends beyond mere recognition; it serves as a platform to reinforce the critical role dermatologists play in safeguarding public health.

"Our brand and the dermatologist community have like-minded goals and passions, and we want to continue to show our commitment and appreciation as we parallel path efforts to move the benchmark on sun care," Sandburg said. "We plan to treat every day as National Dermatologist Day! EltaMD has been a long-standing supporter for skin cancer awareness and protection, and will continue to support varying skin cancer programs such as the Destination Healthy Skin RV, the Colorado Melanoma Foundation The Sun Bus, AAD's Skin Cancer, Take a Hike! and more. We look forward to evolving and growing these efforts year-over-year."

As the general public has grown to associate skin health with vanity, Gohara said the dermatology profession can oftentimes be overlooked.

"However, we strive to leverage our resources to educate and diagnose patients for skin care treatments beyond the mirror," she said. "Initiatives like this amplify the message I deliver daily in my practice: protect your skin with sunscreen and get screened regularly. When the public is more aware of the dangers of sun exposure and the importance of early detection, it translates to earlier skin cancer diagnoses and better survival rates."

Moving forward, Gohara hopes initiatives and observations such as these will bring awareness to the public about the role of skin health, skin protection, and regular dermatology visits.

"Dermatologists will forever be the foremost skin experts. We are producing the science that all skin care is predicated on by understanding we can provide our patients with the best care, and most up to date information, always optimizing their skin health," Gohara said. "To the public: please, please, please protect your skin and visit your dermatologist every year. It is imperative! To my fellow dermatologists, this day is for us. In an ever-evolving virtual world wherein everyone thinks they’re a skin care expert, let’s appreciate this recognition of our hard work and years of training which truly sets our authority apart."

References

1. EltaMD establishes March 13th as National Dermatologist Day, building a healthier future for all. News release. PR Newswire. March 13, 2024. Accessed March 13, 2024. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/eltamd-establishes-march-13th-as-national-dermatologist-day-building-a-healthier-future-for-all-302087401.htmh
2. New York Stock Exchange. The NYSE bell: The History of the bell. Accessed March 29, 2024. https://www.nyse.com/bell