Dr. Jennifer Stead, Board-Certified Dermatologist Joins Optima Dermatology
September 2023
Optima Dermatology & Medical Aesthetics welcomes Dr. Stead’s Expertise in Medical and Surgical Dermatology to Our Bedford, NH Practice
Optima Dermatology is excited to have Jennifer Stead, DO, FAAD, join our Bedford, NH practice, serving the Manchester area. Since 2011, Dr. Stead has been providing patients of all ages in the New England region with a range of medical and surgical dermatology services, as well as medical aesthetic treatments including neuromodulators and dermal fillers.
Dr. Stead earned her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed her dermatology residency in Michigan at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital and served as their Chief Resident.
In her career, Dr. Stead has authored numerous clinical publications and is a beloved provider in the southern New Hampshire region. She is also a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology.
Dr. Stead’s approach to patient care reflects Optima Dermatology’s commitment to treating every patient the way we would want our friends and family to be treated. She is dedicated to providing a comprehensive and personalized experience for each patient.
A Commitment to Industry-Leading Dermatology Services
We recently had the opportunity to learn more about Dr. Jennifer Stead, her approach, and the path that led her to pursue becoming a board-certified dermatologist.
Where did you go to college?
I went to Penn State University in State College, Pennsylvania to study Biology with a minor in Genetics.
What made you decide to pursue a career in dermatology?
The variety of patients we see – medical, surgical, cosmetic! Additionally, early on during medical school rotations, I realized that the dermatology office was a happy place. Our patients are healthy, for the most part, and they really WANT to get better and are motivated because the skin is the largest organ and is on stage for the world to see. This attitude transcends into the office environment.
Working with teenagers who have cystic acne is one of my favorite conditions given that it can be life changing and confidence building for young people at a pivotal time in life. Diagnosing and treating skin cancer at all ages can bring awareness to the population with early detection. The opportunity to empower our patients with the option of cosmetics has always excited me, from small things like chemical peels and skin care regimens, to bigger procedures like laser resurfacing and soft tissue fillers.
What is your number one tip when it comes to taking care of your skin?
Sunscreen, hats and UPF clothing. I wish I had adhered to this philosophy earlier in life! Nothing else is as important as SPF and avoidance of the mid-day rays when it comes to taking care of your skin. And for this current media frenzy/marketing consumption we live in, especially for teenagers, “less is more” in terms of number of products. Invest in a few excellent, medical grade skin care products, alongside a mineral-based sunscreen (I like tinted!) And don’t overdo it. We can help streamline the products, but I find that people are overdoing it with too many non-effective topicals.
If there is one thing you want your patients to know about you, what would it be?
I continually seek more education and knowledge in the field of dermatology. It has exploded in so many facets with the introduction of many new psoriasis and atopic dermatitis medications, cosmetic procedures, and options for topical acne medications. I’m constantly humbled by all the different conditions we see on a daily basis. I gain great satisfaction out of helping resolve both acute and chronic dermatologic conditions and will do my best to make patients leave feeling beautiful in their own skin.
What is your favorite aspect of being a dermatologist?
How lucky am I to have the best job in medicine?! My patients of 13 years have become friends, sharing their lives and families with me. That is my favorite part – growing up with the patients and treating kids with acne, their parents for skin checks (and a little Botox!) and the grandparents with skin cancer. Dermatology is diverse and I never know what is coming in that week. I like the challenging rashes, the mundane warts, and then the routine skin checks…it’s what makes the day interesting. Innovation in dermatology is all around us at whole foods and target beauty aisles, on TV advertisements and social media, and in the compounding pharmacies we send new and exciting mixtures for preparation. The field has exploded and I’m so thrilled to be a part of it.
What is your approach to treating your patients?
My approach to treating dermatologic patients involves listening to their concerns and striving to meet achievable goals. I enjoy helping patients understand their treatment options and navigating the risks and benefits.
What do you like to do when you are not in the office treating patients?
Spending time with my husband and three children who are 6, 8, and 11 years old. They are very active in school and sports, and we have enjoyed the experiences and friendships in the Bedford community as a result. We also love to travel, ski, bike, be outdoors and spend time at the beach with friends and family. I adore a good book – a quick thank you to my devoted patients who also enjoy reading and bring me their book lists!
What to Expect From Dermatology Care From Dr. Stead and Her Team
If you’re seeking medical, surgical or cosmetic dermatological care, Dr. Stead and her team at Optima Dermatology offer a wide range of services and have advanced training and experience to ensure the highest quality of care.
View a complete list of our dermatology services, and come in to learn more about our approach to patient care. Dr. Stead is accepting new patients at our Bedford, NH location. Give us a call at 855-277-9689 to schedule an appointment today!