Sharing Good Skin Knowledge

Medical student Charissa Obeng-Nyarko, MS, knows the importance of educating youth.

Charissa’s story

As a first-year medical student, I participated in the American Academy of Dermatology’s Good Skin Knowledge program because I believe in the importance of educating youth about common skin conditions and healthy skin habits. Recognizing that I could have benefited from this program as an adolescent, I partnered with a local organization serving underserved communities in surrounding counties.

I thoroughly enjoyed working with this group of kids. During each session, they were engaged and motivated to share their newfound knowledge with family and friends. After the Acne session, one girl said “Ms. Charissa, I have to tell my cousin to stop popping those pimples. She’s going to mess up her face!” I couldn’t have been prouder. With each session, I noticed the growth in knowledge, confidence, self-esteem, and team-building skills.

The session about sun protection made the greatest difference. Some kids started the session with misinformation about sunscreen use in Black people but after breaking down the facts with a small demonstration of using my own sunscreen products on my skin, I saw literacy about sunscreen use improve.

This was a phenomenal experience. It was a pleasure to share this knowledge and also learn from this group of boys and girls in return. I’m happy to have put these resources to good use.