Women in Aesthetics: Kim Campbell

HOW AND WHEN DID YOU GET STARTED IN THE AESTHETICS FIELD?

I started my career in dermatology more than 25 years ago with A. Bernard Ackerman at Dermpath Diagnostics, leading all the peer-to-peer and resident education. Later, I pivoted into aesthetics through a deep curiosity about all the new cosmetic innovations. I later joined Galderma and had the good fortune to work with Dr. Shino Bay Aguilera and the late Dr. Fredric Brandt.

Working with these dermatologists shared an experience that highlighted the powerful intersection of dermatology and aesthetics. My experience reinforced that learning, self-education, and evidence-based decision-making are musts for advancing the field. This is not only for clinicians who see patients but for industry professionals who shape knowledge, products, and practice. Collaborating with residents throughout my career has kept me in touch with the pulse of the younger generation and informed my approach to education, professional development, and practice planning. 

As Dermatology Authority celebrates 10 years of resource work for dermatologists, this perspective—bridging education, industry insight, and patient care—remains central to my mission.

WHO ARE SOME OF YOUR MENTORS WHO HAVE INFLUENCED YOU IN YOUR CAREER AND HOW?

Mentors have guided my growth from sales and marketing to a strategic leadership and education approach. Mary Madden and Humberto Antunes provide high-level guidance on leadership, mentorship, and professional development. Dr. Dendy Engleman, Dr. Doris Day, Dr. Suneel Chilukuri, Dr. Neal Bhatia, Dr. Tim Bentley, Tyler Steele, and Isabelle Raymond have provided ongoing support in educational strategy, communications, and industry leadership. 

These mentors helped me cultivate a philosophy of education first that informs how Dermatology Authority creates credible insights for the community. My early work with residents and educational key leaders sharpened my sense of professional development and the importance of cultivating the next generation of dermatology professionals.

WHAT DO SUCCESSFUL PRACTICES NEED TO DO NOW TO THRIVE IN THIS COMPETITIVE MARKET?

The most successful practices and people lead from the top, prioritizing education, relationships, and communication. Ongoing learning must extend to clinicians, staff, and patients. It must go beyond the clinic to your online presence. Your website and social media should reflect the same standards of credibility, education, and patient-centered care. Own your online presence and prioritize ethics and safety for patients. Consistency is always important. In a crowded market, we need to strive to be the best we can be while adapting and evolving with patient needs in practice and online. 

WHAT SAGE ADVICE CAN YOU OFFER WOMEN WHO ARE RISING STARS IN AESTHETICS?

Seek mentorship and immerse yourself in communities of people you admire and respect. It is important to attend industry meetings, engage with professional societies, and contribute actively. Build genuine relationships, solicit feedback, and collaborate with your peers. Helping people who help others means a lot.  

Cultivating a great reputation among your colleagues and patients is so valuable. Always strive to be responsive, kind, and helpful. Our small world is truly built on relationships. People will remember what you say and what you do. Be the person you would like to know. Consistency, generosity in knowledge sharing, and a commitment to ethics will help to establish you as a trusted voice in your community and among your peers. When working with industry, be prepared, engaged, and respectful of people’s time, which is a very valuable asset. 

WHAT IS YOUR POINT OF VIEW ON WHERE MEDICAL AESTHETICS IS GOING IN THE SHORT/LONG TERM?

In the short term, there are many exciting new products and technologies entering the market that offer more precise treatments and better patient experiences. However, it is essential to evaluate safety and efficacy. For the long term, the horizon points to longevity-focused and regenerative medicine. AI is moving much faster than we anticipated. Dermatologists and plastic surgeons should lead the way in this space by educating themselves and their staff through science, ethics, and patient-centered care. AI has changed the way we work and communicate in record time. Thus, we must move forward rapidly to catch up with responsibility and clarity. I believe that ultimately, we are going to feel better, look better, and live longer. I am very excited about the future. 

WHAT ARE SOME TIPS YOU WOULD OFFER TO GET READY FOR THE FUTURE?

Time is your most important asset. Focus on activities that align with what you love and what drives you. At the end of the day, it is important to do more of what you enjoy, so prioritize your schedule to make time for family and friends accordingly.  

Stay up to date with new technology as these can help to lighten your load and leave more time for family, friends, and your peers. Stay connected and build and maintain a broad professional network across colleagues of different specialties and industry professionals.

Know your purpose. Focus on activities that advance your core passion, mentorship, and advancing the industry.