From Exhibit Hall to Emerging Data: A Resident’s AAD Annual Meeting Playbook

In this episode of Cutaneous Miscellaneous, host Nicholas Brownstone, MD, is joined by Danny Zakria, MD, to recap highlights from the 2026 American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) Annual Meeting in Denver, with a focus on how residents and early-career dermatologists can make the most of the experience.

They begin with a board review of UV light and sunscreen fundamentals, covering key distinctions between UVA and UVB, mechanisms of photoprotection, and counseling points that resonate with patients, including framing sunscreen use around photoaging prevention.

In the main part of the episode, they discuss how to approach AAD strategically, from navigating the exhibit hall and planning sessions to identifying high-yield scientific content. They highlight emerging data across dermatology, including updates in acne, alopecia areata, dermatomyositis, and psoriasis, while also sharing practical tips for networking, evaluating products, and engaging with industry and peers.

Tune in to the episode to hear practical guidance on navigating AAD, key clinical updates from this year’s meeting, and how to turn the conference experience into a meaningful step in your dermatology career.