She earned her Bachelor’s of Science at the College of William and Mary in Virginia with a major in neuroscience and a minor in biochemistry and military science. Her dermatology residency was completed in San Antonio after providing medical care in several U.S. Army bases. Dr. Kim Dermatology opened in Frisco in 2021.
Dr. Billet answered questions from Community Impact about best skin care practices, the importance of skin care and the ways to decrease skin cancer risks. Answers have been edited for length and clarity.
If someone doesn’t know a thing about skin care—where should they start?
One of the most important items to consider with regards to the skin is UV protection. I surgically treat skin cancer regularly at my clinic and a lot of the damage is from cumulative sun exposure. Anyone of any color can get skin cancer. If that doesn’t motivate you, protection from UV exposure is the best way to prevent photoaging and keep you looking younger longer.
What is your best tip for someone dealing with dry skin, especially in the winter?
Moisturize regularly. Find a simple, gentle moisturizer without fragrance. The thicker the better and particularly after bathing. You need to get that moisturizer on within minutes of drying. During dryer, cooler months, this can often prevent you from developing rashes and itching. Certainly there are cases where over the counter options are not sufficient, which is where a board certified dermatologist can assist you with keeping your skin healthy and happy.
Why is it important to take care of our skin?
It’s our largest organ and protects us daily from the elements. It regulates our temperature, keeps us from infection, provides us with sensation and plays a role in our immunity. It is also often an indicator for deeper issues and can offer clues to systemic issues that may be at play. It sometimes allows dermatologists to be the first to detect a patient's deeper health problems. It seems obvious but without our skin, we would not survive.
How can sun exposure damage your skin?
Continued exposure to UV radiation damages the DNA within skin cells which can accumulate over time resulting in mutations that cause uncontrolled cell replication aka cancer. The chronic UV exposure also damages the elastin in the skin, resulting in a loss in elasticity and sagging; premature aging. Additionally, it contributes to the development of pigmentary issues like sun spots and melasma which I am often helping patients to treat in clinic.
How can someone take steps to decrease their risk of skin cancer?
Make sure you are staying out of the sun during peak hours if possible. Find shade. Wear sunscreen and photo protective clothing when able. Make sure you are reapplying your sunscreen throughout the day and especially if swimming or sweating a lot. Check your own skin regularly for unusual lesions to include anything that is growing or changing rapidly, bleeding or ulcerating or looks dissimilar to your other moles. Get regular annual skin checks with a board certified dermatologist and make sure they are checking your scalp and inside your mouth as well. Like I said, you can get skin cancer anywhere.
When should someone meet with a dermatologist?
Per the American Academy of Dermatology, once a year for a birthday suit check. Anyone can get skin cancer. Beyond that, if anyone is suffering skin symptoms, I would highly recommend an evaluation by a board certified dermatologist to receive an appropriate assessment and to discuss treatment options.
