BeautyView: Tina Alster, Director, Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery

I have always been fascinated by Tina Alster. I have the privilege of calling her my friend, of considering her my mentor, and of almost being her neighbor in Georgetown (indeed, she is a true DC native!). She is one of the top dermatologists in the country, known to her friends and fellow doctors as the “laser diva.” She always looks perfect, is invited to speak at all of the leading dermatology conferences, has consulted for Lancome (she even appeared in ads for them), and she has a shoe closet (and shoe collection) to die for. When I grow up I want to be just like her.

AP: What city were you born in? TA: Washington, DC.

AP: What city do you live in? TA: Washington, DC.

AP: What is your astrological sign? TA: Capricorn.

AP: What is your favorite thing about the beauty industry? TA: It’s always changing; new advances are more frequently scientifically based.

AP: Least favorite thing? TA: Overpromising results; the high variability in product quality.

AP: What is your most prized possession? TA: A George Rickey sculpture.

AP: What is something about you most people don’t know? TA: I was a Duke University cheerleader.

AP: Do you wear a watch? If yes, what model? TA: Yes, a white ceramic Chanel J12.

AP: Diamonds or pearls? TA: Pearls (lots of them mixed with other necklaces- like Coco).

AP: If you could have dinner with the person of your choice, who would it be? TA: Besides my husband, President Obama.

AP: What is your secret to work/life balance? TA: Choose a life partner who is a team player (and has your back).

AP: What are your three top tips for travel? TA: 1. Travel light (never check luggage). 2. Keep a travel bag with appropriately sized skin products packed at all times. 3. Check in and print boarding passes before going to the airport.

AP: What is your #1 beauty secret? TA: Daily application of antioxidants and sunscreen.

AP: What fragrance do you wear? TA: Balenciaga.

AP: Botox or not? TA: Of course!

AP: Hair color: natural or not? TA: Not.

AP: Quote to live by. TA: “Work hard, play hard.”

AP: Words of advice for young women starting their careers today. TA: Do something you love, but remember…there are no shortcuts…you will need to work hard to be successful.