SKNV Rx Insights

The Power of Customized Medications in Dermatology: A Conversation with Dr. Steven Kolenik

By Nathalie de Champlain, Chief Marketing Officer, SKNV

As dermatology continues to evolve, the power of customization brings an incredible experience for dermatologists, providers, and patients. Our mission at SKNV is not only to improve patient outcomes but also to enhance practice efficiencies and the overall patient experience.
Recently, we had the privilege of hosting a webinar with Dr. Steven Kolenik from Schweiger Dermatology in Norwalk, Connecticut, where we explored how customized medications are transforming the landscape of dermatology. With over 40,000 Mohs surgeries performed and a long-standing partnership with SKNV, Dr. Kolenik’s insights offered valuable takeaways for both providers and patients.

As dermatology continues to evolve, the power of customization brings an incredible experience for dermatologists, providers, and patients. Our mission at SKNV is not only to improve patient outcomes but also to enhance practice efficiencies and the overall patient experience.
Recently, we had the privilege of hosting a webinar with Dr. Steven Kolenik from Schweiger Dermatology in Norwalk, Connecticut, where we explored how customized medications are transforming the landscape of dermatology. With over 40,000 Mohs surgeries performed and a long-standing partnership with SKNV, Dr. Kolenik’s insights offered valuable takeaways for both providers and patients.

The Return of Customization in Dermatology

During the discussion, Dr. Kolenik reflected on his early years in dermatology when compounded medications were routinely part of patient care. However, over time, the rise of large pharmacy chains led to a decline in the availability of customized treatments.
“Ten years ago, SKNV approached us with the ability to customize medications again, and it was a game-changer,” Dr. Kolenik shared. “We could get medications tailored to each patient’s specific needs, something that standard, commercially available drugs often can’t provide.”
This return to customization represents an important advancement in treating patients with unique skin conditions. With SKNV’s FDA-Registered 503B Outsourcing Facility, we are bringing back the ability to deliver personalized medications while maintaining the highest quality control standards.

Simplifying Treatments for Better Outcomes

One of the key benefits of customized medications is simplifying treatment regimens, which significantly improves patient compliance—a critical factor in achieving successful outcomes.

Dr. Kolenik emphasized the success of our Acne Triple Combo, a medication that has become a staple in his practice:
“When you give a teenage boy four different tubes to use from a branded or generic medication, it’s unlikely he’ll follow through. But with a one-pump from SKNV, once-a-day solution, compliance is much higher. The medication gets on their face, and it works.”
This focus on simplicity aligns with famous author and customer experience futurist, Blake Morgan: the more effortless you make the experience, the more engaged and loyal your customers will be. At SKNV, we make it easier for patients to follow their treatment plans by combining multiple active ingredients into one formulation. The result? Higher compliance rates and, as Dr. Kolenik noted, dramatically improved outcomes.

Financial Benefits for Practices

Customized medications offer financial advantages for dermatology practices as well. By providing these medications in-house, practices can create an additional revenue stream without significant effort. As Dr. Kolenik explained, offering SKNV’s medications allows practices to bypass large pharmacy markups while keeping medications affordable for patients.
“You’re essentially cutting out the pharmacy and their massive profit margins. We can offer these medications at a modest markup and still make them affordable for patients, while also generating extra income for the practice,” he said.
This integration of value for both patients and providers embodies Blake Morgan’s principle that enhancing the customer experience benefits all parties involved. By improving accessibility and affordability, SKNV’s customized medications create a win-win scenario for both patients and practices.

Why Customized Medications Matter

As CMO, I’ve visited many dermatology offices and seen firsthand how our customized medications are reshaping patient care. It’s not just about offering another medication; it’s about providing a tailored solution that addresses each patient’s specific needs. This personalized approach improves compliance, enhances patient outcomes, and streamlines practice operations.
At SKNV, we’re committed to helping dermatologists integrate customized medications into their practices, whether through acne treatments, rosacea formulations, or other therapies. We provide the tools to help you deliver personalized care and elevate your practice.
Before we concluded the webinar, Dr. Kolenik advised his colleagues to consider SKNV’s customized medications for their practices: “Take the time to learn how to suggest SKNV medications to your patients. They’ll thank you for it. The medications are easier to use and are often more affordable. It’s a win-win for both the practice and the patient.”