La Roche-Posay Hosts Fourth Annual Pride In Dermatology Event in NYC

Honoring its commitment to Pride Month, French skincare brand La Roche-Posay has announced its Fourth Annual Pride in Dermatology event.

The occasion – held at The Theater at Irving Plaza on June 18 – will be hosted by Peppermint, star of Drag Race and Drag Race All Stars, and Tyler Steele, vice president of medical and media relations at La Roche-Posay and benefit leading LGBTQ+ organizations, Homeward NYC and OutCare Health. A unique initiative that underscores La Roche-Posay’s altruistic approach to skincare, Pride in Dermatology aims to improve LGBTQ+ healthcare access and support.

“Supporting DEI issues for all communities is an important core value for La Roche-Posay,” said Tyler Steele, vice president of medical & media relations at La Roche-Posay. “We are honored and proud to offer a platform that entertains, educates, and provides awareness not only to the dermatology community, but also to these non-profit organizations who are doing important work for the community.”

Bridging Healthcare Gaps in the LGBTQ+ Community

According to Gallup, LGBTQ+ people make up roughly 7.6% of the population – that’s more than double the percentage that was measured a decade ago. However, the LGBTQ+ community continues to experience barriers to healthcare due to stigma and discrimination, financial insecurity, lack of healthcare insurance, higher rates of physical and mental health conditions and suicidality. Studies have shown a critical lack of LGBTQ+ affirmation among providers across the country that contributes to stigmatization and discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals. When patients are uncomfortable or do not feel safe talking to providers, they are less likely to seek healthcare, which can exacerbate pre-existing conditions or allow new or developing issues to take hold.

“La Roche-Posay‘s continued support has been instrumental in driving OutCare Health’s growth and expanding our programs. Their commitment to diversity and inclusion has played a pivotal role in our mission to improve LGBTQ+ health care and equity,” said Dr. Dustin Nowaskie, founder, president and chief medical officer of OutCare Health. “This partnership has allowed us to enhance our outreach, provide essential education and training to healthcare providers and staff, and ensure that LGBTQ+ people across the world receive the quality, affirming care they deserve. Together, we are making significant strides in bridging the gaps in healthcare, creating change, celebrating identities, and empowering LGBTQ+ communities.”

Since 2021, La Roche-Posay has partnered with LGBTQ+ nonprofit OutCare to create a training program to help improve LGBTQ+ affirming care in provider practices and patient interactions. The OutCare training program educates dermatologists on how to communicate with LGBTQ+ patients and care for them with increased sensitivity and affirmation. Homeward NYC provides housing and wraparound services that help empower homeless young mothers and LGBTQ+ young people. By helping to obtain housing first, LGBTQ+ people can find the stability necessary to address trauma and build the skills they need.