Dermatology Experts Gather for AAD 2026 Conference in Denver

Highlights from the first day of the American Academy of Dermatology's annual meeting include new data on pediatric atopic dermatitis, hidradenitis suppurativa, and skin cancer advances.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 8:44am

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The 2026 American Academy of Dermatology Annual Meeting kicked off today in Denver, Colorado, bringing together leading dermatology experts from around the world. Key topics covered on the first day included promising new data on non-steroidal topical treatments for pediatric atopic dermatitis, long-term outcomes for hidradenitis suppurativa, and the latest advancements in skin cancer prevention and management.

Why it matters

The AAD annual conference is a critical forum for dermatology professionals to share the latest research, clinical insights, and best practices in the field. Discussions and findings from this event have a direct impact on how dermatologists diagnose, treat, and care for patients with a wide range of skin conditions.

The details

Highlights from the first day of the AAD 2026 conference included an analysis of a pediatric atopic dermatitis trial showing robust early-response data for a non-steroidal topical treatment, as well as extension data underscoring the importance of early diagnosis and treatment for optimal long-term outcomes in hidradenitis suppurativa. Poster award winners also showcased studies advancing skin cancer prevention, inflammatory disease management, and complex dermatology care. Experts also discussed the continued rise in melanoma cases and how AI-aided screening, gene profiling, and newer immunotherapies are boosting early diagnosis and long-term survival.

  • The 2026 American Academy of Dermatology Annual Meeting kicked off today in Denver, Colorado.

The players

Darrell Rigel, MD, MS

A dermatologist who discussed the rise in melanoma cases and advancements in early diagnosis and treatment.

Christopher Bunick, MD, PhD

A dermatologist who interviewed medical student Sabine Obagi on the value of conference participation, mentorship, and early exposure for aspiring dermatology clinicians.

Nicole Negbenebor, MD

A dermatologist who highlighted the clinical and professional impact of community-driven education and evidence-based focus in skin of color dermatology.

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What they’re saying

“Melanoma cases keep rising, but AI-aided screening, gene profiling, and newer immunotherapies boost early diagnosis and long-term survival.”

— Darrell Rigel, MD, MS

“The clinical and professional impact of community-driven education and evidence-based focus in skin of color dermatology.”

— Nicole Negbenebor, MD

“The value of conference participation, mentorship, and early exposure for aspiring dermatology clinicians.”

— Sabine Obagi, medical student

The takeaway

The AAD 2026 conference is showcasing the latest advancements in dermatology, from promising new treatments for common skin conditions to cutting-edge approaches for diagnosing and managing complex diseases like melanoma. These insights will help shape the future of patient care and drive continued progress in the field.