Utah’s dermatology APPs had the incredible opportunity to host a Free Acne Clinic—an event rooted in the belief that everyone deserves access to expert acne care, regardless of cost.
Acne isn’t just skin-deep. It can deeply affect confidence, self-esteem, and mental well-being, particularly in teens and young adults. Knowing this, we set out to create a welcoming, judgment-free space where patients could receive personalized, evidence-based guidance and leave feeling hopeful and empowered.
What We Offered
Hosted at the Maliheh Free Clinic in Millcreek, Utah, the clinic was open to anyone experiencing acne, whether it was their first breakout or a long-standing struggle with cystic acne. Our dedicated team of dermatology PAs and NPs provided:
- Free medical consultations
- Access to over-the-counter acne medications at no cost
- Practical, personalized education about acne triggers, treatment expectations, and debunking common myths
We emphasized the importance of consistency in treatment, the role of hormones and inflammation, and how to distinguish between OTC options and prescriptions—empowering patients with knowledge that will serve them long after their visit.
From middle schoolers just beginning their skincare journeys to adults who had nearly given up on finding relief, the response was overwhelming, in the best possible way. One teen shared, “I’ve been hiding my face at school—thank you for actually listening and helping me.”
Moments like these reaffirm our commitment to community outreach. When high-quality healthcare is accessible, it doesn’t just treat skin—it transforms lives.
What’s Next
Thanks to the success of this clinic, Project Happy Face is expanding our efforts to offer free acne visits, treatments, and medications as part of the Elevate-Derm Summer Conference in Park City, Utah. Patients can book a free visit online at www.projecthappyface.org
Keri Holyoak, PA-C, resides with her husband and three curious children in Millcreek, Utah. Together, they explore the roads less traveled. Since 2005, she has worked with Dr. Joseph Jensen, MD, and Kirk Stephens, PA-C, at the Dermatology Center of Salt Lake.
