Dr. Robin's Inner Circle

Members Only Newsletter

A Note from Dr. Robin

Hi Reader,

I’ll never forget the day a patient with a large facial scar thanked me—not for a prescription or a procedure, but for looking her in the eyes. She said that most people stared at her scar instead.

That moment reminded me that while dermatology focuses on the outside, what patients often need most is kindness and connection. Our skin tells our stories—of growth, healing, and resilience—and it deserves both care and respect.

Dr. Robin

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Roots & Suffixes: derm- ​ Even doctors come across words they’ve never seen before. Learning roots and suffixes helps you guess smart—so unfamiliar words start to make more sense!

The root derm- means skin. You’ll see it in words like dermatology (the study of skin), epidermis (the outer layer of skin), and hypodermic (under the skin). ​ Our skin is the body’s largest organ—it protects us, helps control temperature, and lets us feel the world around us.

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What I'm Reading

This week’s pick is Firegirl by Tony Abbott. It’s the story of a middle school class whose lives change when a new student arrives—a girl who survived a severe burn injury.

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If your student is interested in stories about friendship, courage, and empathy, this one is unforgettable. It helps readers see that healing isn’t just physical—it’s about how we treat one another. ​ Get It On Amazon This is an affiliate link. You don't pay extra but you help support the school anytime you click one of our links before shopping!

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Career Corner: Dermatologist

Dermatologists are doctors who care for the skin, hair, and nails. They treat everything from acne and rashes to burns and skin cancer, and they help patients feel confident in their own skin. ​ Download the Career Page ​ ​

Today's Career Question: ​ If you were a dermatologist, would you rather help teens with acne or remove moles and spots that might be dangerous? Why? ​ Download the Coloring Page ​

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Ask Dr. Robin!

Do you have a question about a lesson you're doing? You can write in and ask Dr. Robin!

Question:

What actually causes acne—and why does it seem worse for some people than others?

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Answer from Dr. Robin:

Acne happens when oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria clog the tiny openings in your skin called pores. Hormones can make your skin produce more oil, which is why acne often shows up during puberty.

Some people’s skin just makes more oil or reacts more strongly to bacteria. That’s why one person might get a few pimples and another might have more serious acne.

The good news is that acne isn’t about being “dirty,” and there are many treatments that can help calm inflammation and prevent scarring. And if you're someone with more acne than average, don't worry...I had more than anyone I knew and with the right information and management strategies, I was able to have clear skin!

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P.S. Have a question from your lesson or something you’ve always wondered about medicine? Hit reply and ask me! Your question might be featured in a future Ask Dr. Robin.

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That's all for this week! Happy Learning!

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Questions? Get one-on-one assistance from Nurse Jill Cooper. Reply to this email, schedule office hours with Jill, or text or call 720-257-9030. Business hours are 9-5 M-F MST, closed for school holidays.