07
May
Apex’s Board-Certified Dermatologists Trained at the Highest Ranked Medical Schools in the Country
Karin Harp, MD, FAAD, FASDS
Dr. Harp earned her doctorate in medicine and her dermatology residency at the University of Washington in Seattle, where she was again ranked #1 for primary care in the US. During her education, she was selected for the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. Today, Dr. Harp is affiliated with professional organizations, including the American Academy of Dermatology, the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, the American Society for Mohs Surgery, and CalDerm. Dr. Harp founded Apex Dermatology in Westlake Village, California. Her lifelong dream was to create a clinic that stands out for its excellence in care and customer service. Dr. Harp loves bringing scientifically proven gold-standard innovative services and treatments to Apex patients who come to see her from near and far.
At Apex Dermatology, her goal is to maintain and enhance her patients’ natural features with rejuvenating laser skin resurfacing, skin tightening, volume support and restoration, scar reduction, and more. She truly enjoys reducing sun damage, building healthy skin, and slowing or removing the effects of time and sun damage to give the skin its best texture and appearance. She works closely with our patients to maintain that in the short and long term. As an accomplished board-certified dermatologist, she treats skin conditions that can have a serious impact on patients’ comfort and well-being, including rosacea, psoriasis, vitiligo, and eczema. She’s also highly skilled in surgical procedures, including skin cancer removal, mole removal, and Mohs micrographic surgery for skin cancers, such as basal cell carcinomas or squamous cell carcinomas.
Aria Vazirnia MD, MAS, FAAD
A native of southern California, Dr. Aria attended UCLA and completed his medical education at UC San Diego School of Medicine. Because of his interest in research and development of treatments for skin diseases, he pursued a master’s degree in clinical research while also a medical student, and he authored numerous medical journal articles and textbook chapters. Dr. Aria completed his dermatology residency at UC San Diego School of Medicine and was elected at that time to the board of the California Society of Dermatology & Dermatologic Surgery as well as the American Society for Laser Medicine & Surgery. Following residency,
Dr. Aria completed a rigorous laser and cosmetic dermatology fellowship at Harvard Medical School- ranked #1 for research this year, Massachusetts General Hospital and the Wellman Center for Photomedicine in Boston – where the majority of laser technologies and cosmetic treatments are invented. While at Harvard, Dr. Aria was trained by international experts and the inventors of lasers and energy-based devices.
He appreciates the opportunity to evaluate patients closely, determine their best plan of action whether for medical or cosmetic dermatologic care and then to see the patient through that course of services to their best end result. He has a caring and detailed approach that serves Apex patients wonderfully in order to achieve their goals.
Kristin Rupert MS, PA-C
Kristin Rupert PA-C, is our Certified Physician Assistant at Apex Dermatology. She earned both her Master’s degree in Public Health and her Masters of Science in Physician Assistant studies at the esteemed George Washington University in DC.
She is licensed by the state of California and Board-Certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. She holds memberships with the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants and the California Academy of Physician Assistants. Beyond administering a range of dermatologic treatments for skin diseases, psoriasis, spots, and scars, Kristin enjoys educating her patients about preventive care that they can do at home with the very best that Apex offers. She is attentive to patients’ needs and people enthusiastically refer their friends and family to her regularly.
Mary Hanna NP-BC
Mary Hanna NP-BC earned her Master of Science degree as a Nurse Practitioner at Harvard’s prestigious Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions in Boston, MA before she moved to Los Angeles in 2017. Mary is a licensed Nurse Practitioner in California and is nationally Board-Certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). While pursuing her graduate degree, Mary was selected for the highly coveted Dermatology clinical rotation at Boston Medical Center (BMC.) By the end of her time at BMC, she had fallen in love with Dermatology. Mary loves how Dermatology eloquently brings together the science of medical knowledge and the artistry of cosmetic dermatology.
Robbins, R. (April 13, 2022) U of Washington, Harvard Ranked Top Medical Schools ― Again, MedScape Medical News Retrieved
Karin Harp, MD, FAAD
Aria Vazirnia, MD, FAAD
Nikki Tang, MD, FAAD, FACMS
Mary Hanna, NP-BC
Alexandra Woodruff
Lani Keene
Sherri Anderson
Riley McCarthy
Karin Harp, MD, FAAD
Dr. Karin Harp, MD, FAAD, is a distinguished board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Apex Dermatology in Westlake Village, California. With years of experience, she excels in skincare and aesthetics, offering treatments like body contouring and laser skin resurfacing. Dr. Harp is adept at managing complex skin conditions such as rosacea and psoriasis and performs surgical procedures, including Mohs micrographic surgery. A graduate of the University of Washington School of Medicine, she was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. She is affiliated with esteemed organizations like the American Academy of Dermatology, ensuring her practice remains at the forefront of dermatological care. Dr. Tateoka’s philosophy centers on creating customized treatment plans tailored to individual needs, fostering positive self-confidence, and promoting overall well-being. Her commitment to innovation, personalized care, and lifelong learning makes her a trusted provider for those seeking transformative health and aesthetic solutions.
Aria Vazirnia, MD, FAAD
Dr. Aria Vazirnia, MD, FAAD, is a highly respected board-certified dermatologist with a focus on medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology. A Harvard-trained expert, he excels in minimally invasive procedures such as laser treatments, injectables, and body contouring. Dr. Aria completed his medical degree and dermatology residency at UC San Diego School of Medicine, where he also earned a master’s in clinical research. He is an active member of the California Society of Dermatology & Dermatologic Surgery and the American Society for Laser Medicine & Surgery, reflecting his dedication to advancing dermatological care and patient well-being.
Nikki Tang, MD, FAAD, FACMS
Dr. Nikki Tang, MD, FAAD, FACMS, is a respected double board-certified dermatologist and Mohs Micrographic Surgeon based in Westlake Village, CA. With extensive training from Brown University and Mount Sinai Hospital, Dr. Tang specializes in the surgical treatment of skin cancers, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. Her expertise in Mohs surgery and complex wound reconstruction is backed by her role as former Director of Cutaneous Surgery and Oncology at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. A fellow of the American College of Mohs Surgery, Dr. Tang is committed to providing compassionate, high-quality care with excellent outcomes.
Mary Hanna, NP-BC
Mary Hanna, NP-BC, is a highly skilled Nurse Practitioner based in Westlake Village, CA, at Apex Dermatology. With a Master of Science degree from the Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions, affiliated with Harvard, Mary is nationally Board-Certified by the ANCC. Her expertise in dermatology was honed during a prestigious clinical rotation at Boston Medical Center. Mary excels in laser resurfacing, body contouring, and injectables and is dedicated to educating her patients. Her compassionate approach ensures patients feel empowered in their healthcare, enhancing their overall well-being. Mary is a trusted provider, committed to delivering exceptional care.
Alexandra Woodruff, PA-C
Alexandra Woodruff, PA-C, is a compassionate Certified Physician Assistant at Apex Dermatology in Westlake Village, CA. Her journey into dermatology began in high school, inspired by her own experiences with hormonal acne. Since 2016, Alexandra has been dedicated to understanding the connection between metabolic health and skin conditions. She holds a master’s degree from the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences and is board-certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. As a member of the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants and the California Dermatology PA Society, Alexandra is committed to providing exceptional patient care.
Lani Keene
Lani Keene, a licensed aesthetician in Westlake Village, CA, has been enhancing skin health since 1998. With over 25 years of experience in both medical and holistic skincare, she offers personalized treatments that deliver outstanding results. At Apex Dermatology, Lani is renowned for her gentle touch and warm demeanor, making her a top choice for those dealing with sunspots, acne, and fine lines. Her dedication to individualized care and extensive expertise make her a trusted professional in aesthetics, helping clients achieve their best looks and feel confident.
Sherri Anderson, MSHS, PA-C
Sherri Anderson, MSHS, PA-C, is a highly experienced dermatologist with over 15 years of clinical practice. She earned her Master of Science from George Washington University and is board-certified by the National Commission on the Certification of Physician Assistants. Sherri is a respected member of the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants and the California Dermatology PA Society. Her extensive expertise spans dermatology, plastic surgery, and emergency medicine. Known for her warm manner and aesthetic talents, Sherri is dedicated to providing personalized care, ensuring each patient feels valued and receives natural results from cosmetic procedures.
Riley McCarthy, BSN, RN
Riley McCarthy, BSN, RN, is a dedicated dermatologist with a unique blend of expertise in both medical and cosmetic dermatology. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from West Coast University and an undergraduate degree in psychology from the University of Arizona. Riley is committed to making each patient feel safe and confident in their skin, ensuring a comfortable and supportive environment. Her approach combines her extensive knowledge and compassionate care, making her a trusted professional in the field. Riley is passionate about community health and enhancing patient well-being.