It is with immense gratitude and humility that I share some exciting news: On December 12, the Society of Cosmetic Chemists honored me with the Frontiers of Science Award, which is given annually to a person who has achieved exceptional national or international stature in the scientific community.

The award was given immediately following a presentation I made to the Society’s 78^th Conference, Dec. 11-13, which drew 1,000 industry professionals to Los Angeles.

For me, this recognition is not just a personal achievement, but a reflection of the collective journey that has shaped my life’s work—a journey sparked by curiosity, a willingness to think outside the box, and a belief in the human potential to grow, flourish, and blossom.

As my patients, friends, and followers know, I have spent decades working at the intersection of science and wellness, drawn by the idea that true beauty goes far beyond what we see on the surface. It starts from within, from the health of our cells to the resilience of our minds. Receiving this award is a meaningful acknowledgment of the importance of marrying science with the art of nurturing individuality and authenticity. And it means so much to me because it was awarded by my peers—my fellow researchers and wellness aficionados in the cosmetic science industry.

Allowing the unique you to blossom

Throughout my career, whether in clinical practice, skincare innovation, business, writing, or painting, one philosophy has guided my approach: every person is unique, and that uniqueness deserves to be celebrated. I often say, “allow the unique you to blossom,” because each of us carries a special combination of strengths, quirks, and possibilities that can make a lasting difference in our lives and the lives of others.

When we take care of our health—physical, emotional, and cellular—we allow our full potential to shine through. And when we embrace who we are, without trying to conform to unrealistic standards or societal molds, we step into our most authentic, powerful selves.

This idea has influenced everything from my clinical practice to the way I formulate products. I have always believed that science exists to expand possibilities. True innovation starts when we honor individuality and focus on enhancing what is already there: your uniqueness, your perspective, your health, and your natural beauty.

Thinking as if there is no box

We often hear the phrase, “think outside the box.” But I encourage people to think as if there is no box. There should be no boundaries to creativity and no rigid rules to confine us when we are trying to solve problems or create something new.

This mindset has been the cornerstone of my work. Whether exploring how alpha hydroxy acids support cellular health or pioneering holistic skincare solutions that cater to the diversity of skin needs, my approach has always been to question assumptions, explore uncharted territory, and look beyond conventional thinking. Science and creativity can exist in harmony—and the most exciting breakthroughs happen when we refuse to see limitations.

If there’s one lesson I hope to impart to anyone reading this, it is to not let yourself be defined by labels, circumstances, or expectations. If you can dream it, explore it. If you can imagine it, pursue it. It’s never too late to pursue your dreams. The future is shaped by those willing to challenge the status quo and see possibilities where others might see obstacles.

Gratitude and looking ahead

As I reflect on the honor of receiving this award from my peers, I am filled with gratitude—for my colleagues, the scientific community, my team, and all the people who have supported me throughout my journey. I am also deeply inspired by those who continue to push the boundaries of science, health, and wellness.

This award is not a conclusion; it is an invitation to keep going, keep questioning, and keep creating. My mission remains the same: to empower you to live a healthier, more vibrant life by nurturing your body, mind, and spirit.

With that goal in mind, it also gives me great pleasure to announce the launch of the new Howard Murad Inclusive Wellness program at the Long Island University School of Pharmacy. This new program, which will enroll students for the Fall 2025 semester, will integrate cosmetic science, beauty, and wellness, enabling pharmacists to deliver more comprehensive health and beauty care to their patients—helping patients enjoy the healthiest, most beautiful skin possible, reflecting their overall wellness. It is my honor to provide the initial funding for this program on the campus where I completed my own pharmacy degree.

So, here’s to the future. To letting the unique you blossom. To thinking as if there is no box. And to embracing the possibilities of what comes next.

Wishing you the happiest of holidays and your own successful pursuit of #ModernWellness!