At Brilliant Read Media, it is our constant endeavour to identify and share some of the unique and compelling stories from the startup ecosystem. As part of this, we invited Dr. Shareefa Chause for an interview with Brilliant Read Media. To say further, Dr. Shareefa is a Certified Dermatologist and Cosmetologist and the Founder of Shareefa’s Skin Care Clinic. Let’s learn more about her background, inspiring journey so far and her advice for our growing community!
Excerpts from our exclusive interview with Dr. Shareefa:
Could you please talk us through your background and your journey?
Absolutely. I’m a board-certified dermatologist (MBBS, DDVL) with over six years of clinical experience. From the very beginning, I’ve believed that dermatology is not just about aesthetics—it’s about restoring confidence, addressing deeper health concerns, and improving overall quality of life.
This belief led me to establish Shareefa’s Skin Care Clinic, where my focus is to make advanced, evidence-based dermatological care both accessible and personalised. I am a proud member of esteemed organisations such as the Indian Medical Association (IMA), the Indian Association of Dermatologists, Venereologists & Leprologists (IADVL), the Indian Women Dermatological Association (IWDA), and Associate Medical Consultants, Mumbai.
Over the years, I’ve been honoured with several national accolades, including the Iconic Dermatologist Award, Pride of Bharat Award, and Healthcare Tycoon Award.
I have also been featured twice in Woman’s Era Magazine, which has been a deeply humbling experience. My clinical practice is supported by a strong academic foundation and a continuous drive to innovate in the field of skin health and wellness.
How did you discover your passion?
My passion for dermatology emerged during my clinical rotations in medical school. I witnessed how profoundly skin conditions can impact both the physical and emotional well-being of individuals.
The skin often reflects internal health, and managing skin diseases requires a blend of clinical precision and compassion—a combination that immediately drew me in.
Over time, the joy of helping patients overcome chronic conditions like acne, pigmentation, or hair loss—which often go far beyond cosmetic concerns—solidified my love for this field. Being able to empower patients to regain control over their skin and self-esteem is what makes this profession so meaningful to me.
Despite the challenges, what keeps you going when things get tough?
What truly keeps me going is witnessing the transformation in my patients—when someone walks in burdened with self-doubt and walks out feeling confident and hopeful, that is deeply rewarding.
Like any medical profession, dermatology comes with its share of challenges—complex cases, high patient expectations, and the pressure of countering viral skincare myths on social media. Navigating this, especially as a woman entrepreneur in a bustling city like Mumbai, requires resilience.
But it’s the trust my patients place in me, and my commitment to providing ethical, evidence-based care, that keeps me grounded and motivated. The ever-evolving nature of dermatology, with new treatments and technologies, also keeps the journey exciting.
What are the three most important lessons you have learned in your life?
1) Consistency is more powerful than perfection – Long-term results in both clinical practice and personal growth come from showing up every day with purpose.
2) Empathy creates impact – Beyond medical expertise, it’s how you connect with your patients that truly makes a difference.
3) Stay grounded, keep growing – Holding on to core values while staying updated with the latest advancements is key to remaining relevant and effective in this dynamic field.
In your opinion, what are the keys to success?
In dermatology—or any medical career—success stems from:
> Integrity: Always place your patients’ well-being above everything else.
> Lifelong Learning: Medicine is constantly evolving, and staying updated is essential.
> Effective Communication: Explaining skin concerns and treatments clearly builds trust and compliance.
> Patience and Persistence: Skin and hair treatments take time. Guiding patients through the process with empathy is crucial for long-term results.
What advice would you give students and young professionals who want to have a successful career?
Start by building a strong academic and ethical foundation. Choose a speciality that truly excites you every day. For those considering dermatology, understand that it’s more than just lasers and cosmetic procedures—it’s a deep, medically rooted field requiring knowledge in dermatopathology, systemic diseases, and clinical diagnostics.
Seek mentorship, learn through hands-on experience, and never stop evolving. In today’s digital age, combine your clinical skills with patient education—use content as a tool to reach and empower people responsibly and authentically.
Last but not least, what about your journey makes it satisfying/exciting?
What makes my journey truly fulfilling is the dual impact I get to create—clinical healing and digital education. Whether I’m treating a patient with chronic skin conditions like psoriasis, improving acne scars, or creating awareness through social media, every day brings a new opportunity to empower others.
Being recognised nationally and featured in leading publications has been an encouraging affirmation of my work. But more than awards, it’s the trust, gratitude, and visible transformation in my patients that makes this journey so satisfying.
Dermatology is a constantly evolving field—with emerging frontiers like regenerative treatments, integrative skin health, and AI-driven diagnostics—and I’m excited to grow alongside it.
BrilliantRead is committed to bringing stories from the startup ecosystem, stories that reshape our perspective, add value to our community and be a constant source of motivation not just for our community but also for the whole ecosystem of entrepreneurs and aspiring individuals.
Note: If you have a similar story to share with our audience and would like to be featured on our online magazine, then please write to us at [email protected], we will review your story and extend an invitation to feature if it is worth publishing.
