Meet Dr. Emily L. Guo: Cosmetic & Medical Dermatologist in Houston
Dr. Emily L. Guo stands as one of Houston’s most accomplished dermatologists, bringing years of specialized expertise in cosmetic dermatology, laser medicine, and dermatologic surgery to patients throughout the greater Houston area. As a board-certified dermatologist and fellowship-trained cosmetic dermatologic surgeon at the Dermatology & Laser Surgery Center, Dr. Guo has established herself as a rising leader in advanced dermatological treatments, combining cutting-edge laser technology with compassionate, evidence-based patient care.
About Dr. Emily L. Guo
Dr. Emily L. Guo’s journey in dermatology began with her medical degree from Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, where she graduated with Honors. She then completed her dermatology residency at Georgetown University in Washington, DC, where she served as Administrative Chief Resident during her final year. Following her residency, Dr. Guo pursued advanced training and completed an American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS)–accredited cosmetic dermatologic surgery fellowship at the Dermatology & Laser Surgery Center under the mentorship of Dr. Paul M. Friedman, one of the nation’s leading laser dermatologists.
This comprehensive training foundation has enabled Dr. Guo to become a recognized authority in cosmetic and medical dermatology, with expertise spanning advanced laser treatments, cosmetic injectables, scar revision, and specialized dermatologic conditions. Her practice serves patients from across Houston, including the Medical Center, River Oaks, Memorial, The Woodlands, and surrounding communities.
Practice Statistics & Experience
- 7+ years of dermatological practice experience
- 20+ peer-reviewed publications in leading medical journals
- Chair, Media & Digital Strategy Committee, Women’s Dermatologic Society (2023-2026)
- Chair, Digital Communications Committee, American Society for Laser Medicine & Surgery (2024-2025)
- Adjunct Faculty, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Department of Dermatology
Educational Excellence and Training
Dr. Guo’s educational credentials reflect her commitment to excellence in dermatological care:
Medical Education
- Medical Degree: Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX (Honors, 2017)
- Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry: University of Texas at Austin (High Honors, 2013)
Postgraduate Training
- Fellowship: ASDS Cosmetic Dermatologic Surgery Fellowship (2022)
- Dermatology & Laser Surgery Center, Houston, TX
- Fellowship Director: Dr. Paul M. Friedman
- Residency: Georgetown University Dermatology Residency (2018-2021)
- Administrative Chief Resident (2020-2021)
- Rotations: MedStar Washington Hospital Center, MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Children’s National Medical Center, National Institutes of Health
- Internship: Baylor College of Medicine Internal Medicine (2017-2018)
- Rotations: Harris Health Ben Taub Hospital, Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, MD Anderson Cancer Center, St. Luke’s Medical Center
Board Certifications & Credentials
American Board of Dermatology
Fellow, American Academy of Dermatology (FAAD)
Fellowship Trained in Cosmetic Dermatologic Surgery under Dr. Paul M. Friedman
Active Medical License: Texas State Medical Board
Research Excellence and Publications
With 20+ peer-reviewed publications in leading medical journals, Dr. Guo has made significant contributions to dermatological research, particularly in laser medicine, skin of color dermatology, and humanitarian applications of dermatologic technology. Her work represents a comprehensive body of research spanning clinical innovation and evidence-based practice advancement.
Dr. Emily L. Guo’s Research Publications by Category
Camacho-Hubbard I, Dick MK, Guo EL, Richmond H, Friedman PM. Clinical presentations and complications of illicit and large volume silicone injections performed in medical spa facilities. Dermatol Surg. 2025 Aug 15. doi: 10.1097/DSS.0000000000004811. Online ahead of print.
Dick MK, Raef H, Richmond H, Guo EL, Friedman PM. Xanthelasma Palpebrarum Associated With Use of Hyaluronidase. Dermatol Surg. 2025 Oct 17. Online ahead of print.
Murray TN, Guo EL, Richmond H, Friedman PM. Single treatment scar resurfacing with a novel ablative fractional 2910 nm erbium-doped fluoride glass fiber laser. Lasers Surg Med. 2024 Jan;56(1):19-22. doi: 10.1002/lsm.23729. Epub 2023 Oct 17.
Kubicki SL, Guo EL, Sodha P, Richmond H, Friedman PM. Combination 1550 nm non-ablative fractional resurfacing and laser hair removal for treatment of Becker’s nevi in skin types III-VI. Lasers Surg Med. 2023 Jan;55(1):99-104. doi: 10.1002/lsm.23599. Epub 2022 Sep 21.
Swali RN, Estupiñan B, Guo EL, Richmond H, Friedman PM. Efficacy of 785-nm picosecond titanium sapphire laser for treatment of brown Nevus of Ota lesions in FST II-V: A Retrospective Analysis. Dermatol Surg. 2024 Nov 1;50(11):1046-1049. doi: 10.1097/DSS.0000000000004267. Epub 2024 Jun 18.
Fernandez JK, Guo EL, Richmond H, Friedman PM. The 730 nm picosecond titanium sapphire laser for treatment of café-au-lait macules in all skin types. Lasers Surg Med. 2024 Mar;56(3):257-262. doi: 10.1002/lsm.23769. Epub 2024 Feb 27.
Kubicki SL, Guo EL, Richmond H, Friedman PM. Treatment of Nevus of Ota in Black patients with the 1064 nm QS or picosecond laser and nonablative fractional photothermolysis. Lasers Surg Med. 2023 Jan;55(1):67-72. doi: 10.1002/lsm.23597. Epub 2022 Sep 19.
Han S, Swali RN, Guo EL, Friedman PM. Pink bumps on the face after microneedling. Dermatol Surg. 2024 Jul;50(7):692-693. doi: 10.1097/DSS.0000000000004139. Epub 2024 Feb 28.
Guo EL, Kream E, Merlo A, Friedman PM. Liberating more than light: Laser removal of branding tattoos is impactful in the recovery of sex trafficking survivors. Lasers Surg Med. 2023 Jan;55(1):61-66. doi: 10.1002/lsm.23612. Epub 2022 Oct 17.
Murray TN, Guo EL, Friedman PM. #CoreCosmeticSpecialties: An analysis of nonsurgical cosmetic procedure hashtags on Instagram. Lasers Surg Med. 2023 Jan;55(1):12-15. doi: 10.1002/lsm.23598. Epub 2022 Sep 13.
Patel AD, Guo E, Sodha P, Friedman PM. Laser education in dermatology residency: outcomes of a resident-reported survey. Dermatol Surg. 2022 Oct;48(10):1129-1131. doi:10.1097/DSS.0000000000003589.
Khanna R, Guo EL, Kirkorian AY. Feeling the burn: Sunburn recall in staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome. Pediatr Dermatol. 2022 Mar;39(2):330-332. doi: 10.1111/pde.14937. Epub 2022 Feb 17.
Hussain AN, Guo EL, Cardis MA. Plum-colored plaques on the scalp and extremities. JAAD Case Rep. 2021;9:21-23. doi:10.1016/j.jdcr.2020.12.037
Gaufin M, Guo EL, Cardis MA. Hyperkeratotic spicules in a woman with breast cancer. Int J Women’s Dermatology. 2021;7(5):803-804. doi.org/10.1016/j.ijwd.2021.06.006
Egbeto IA, Guo EL, Pasieka HB. A red-orange rash in a patient with skin of color. Int J Women’s Dermatology. 2021;7(2):203-204. doi.org/10.1016/j.ijwd.2021.01.013
Bell KA, Guo EL, DeKlotz CMC. Treatment of angiokeratomas of Fordyce with topical rapamycin 0.25% cream. JAAD Case Rep. 2021;8:50-52. doi:10.1016/j.jdcr.2020.12.007
Gurnee EA, Johansen ML, Phung TL, Guo EL, Fong A, Tollefson M, Nguyen H, Brandling-Bennett H, Moriarty N, Paller AS, Huynh TN, Lawley LP. Pediatric maculopapular cutaneous mastocytosis: Retrospective review of signs, symptoms, and associated conditions. Pediatric Dermatology. 2021;38(1):159-163. doi:10.1111/pde.14399
Coerdt KM, Guo EL, Saardi KM, Habeshian AK. The case of missing skin: Congenital Volkman ischemic contracture. Pediatric Dermatology. 2020;37(4):762-763. doi:10.1111/pde.14177.
Gurnee EA, Phung TL, Guo E, Fong A, Tollefson M, Nguyen H, Brandling-Bennett HA, Moriarty N, Paller AS, Huynh T, Lawley L. Neurocognitive dysfunction and anaphylaxis in pediatric maculopapular cutaneous mastocytosis. The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice. 2020;8(1):409-410. doi:10.1016/j.jaip.2019.06.024.
Guo EL, Katta R. Diet and hair loss: effects of nutrient deficiency and supplement use. Dermatol Pract Concept. 2017;7(1):1-10. doi:10.5826/dpc.0701a01
Guo EL, Degesys CA, Jahan-Tigh R, Chan A. Deep Granuloma Annulare Mimicking Inflamed Cysts in a Teenager. Pediatric Dermatology. 2017;34(4):e207-e208. doi:10.1111/pde.13137
Nguyen GH, Guo EL, Norris D. A rare case of erythema elevatum diutinum presenting as diffuse neuropathy. JAAD Case Rep. 2017;3(1):1-3. doi:10.1016/j.jdcr.2016.10.007
Guo EL, Wang JV, Geronemus RG, Friedman PM. Combination Treatment Approach to Melasma. Book chapter in Advances in Cosmetic Surgery: 4th edition (Elsevier 2021).
Awards and Recognition
Dr. Guo’s contributions to dermatology and humanitarian work have earned her numerous prestigious awards and recognitions:
- Editor’s Choice Article (2024) – “730 NM Picosecond Titanium Sapphire Laser for Treatment of Café Au Lait Macules in All Skin Types,” Lasers in Surgery & Medicine
- Presidential Citation (2023) – Presented by Dr. Paul M. Friedman, American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery
- Resident & Fellow Grant (2022) – Cosmetic Bootcamp, Aspen, CO
- Merz Aesthetics Next Gen Summit (2022) – Austin, TX
- Abstract Presenting Author Scholarship (2022) – American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery
- String of Pearls Nominee for Excellence in Clinical Teaching (2020) – Georgetown University School of Medicine
- First Place Presentation (2020) – DC Academy of Dermatology
- Second Place Presentation (2020) – DC Academy of Dermatology
- Resident Travel Grant (2020) – Women’s Dermatologic Society Forum
- Great Catch Award for Patient Safety (2017) – MD Anderson Cancer Center
- Rosa May Griffin Presidency Excellence Award (2016) – Baylor College of Medicine
- Wendy Haskell Meyer Scholarship (2016) – Baylor College of Medicine
- College Scholar (2013) – College of Natural Sciences, University of Texas at Austin
- Phi Beta Kappa (2012) – University of Texas at Austin
- Dedman Merit Scholarship (2009-2013) – University of Texas at Austin
- National Merit Finalist (2009) – Top 1% Nationally
Professional Leadership
Dr. Guo’s influence extends beyond her clinical practice. She holds significant leadership positions in major dermatological organizations:
Leadership and Service Roles:
- Chair, Media & Digital Strategy Committee, Women’s Dermatologic Society (2023-2026)
- Chair, Digital Communications Committee, American Society for Laser Medicine & Surgery (2024-2025)
- Member, Early Career Committee, American Society for Laser Medicine & Surgery (2023-2025)
- Member, Philanthropy Task Force, American Society for Laser Medicine & Surgery (2022-2025)
- Member, Social Media Committee, American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (2020-2023)
- Member, Technology and Media Committee, Skin of Color Society (2021-2022)
Professional Memberships:
- American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) – Fellow
- American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS) – Fellow
- American Society for Laser Medicine & Surgery (ASLMS)
- Women’s Dermatologic Society
- Skin of Color Society
- Houston Dermatological Society
- Harris County Medical Society
Humanitarian Work & Social Impact
Beyond her clinical practice, Dr. Guo is deeply committed to humanitarian causes and advancing dermatology for underserved populations:
Human Trafficking Advocacy
Dr. Guo is a co-founder and active participant in the ASLMS New Beginnings Initiative, which provides pro-bono laser treatments for survivors of human trafficking. This groundbreaking program helps remove branding tattoos and restore dignity to survivors, enabling them to begin their healing journey. Her research on this topic, published in Lasers in Surgery & Medicine, demonstrates the profound impact of laser technology in humanitarian applications.
Her work in this area has been recognized nationally through media coverage and professional recognition, highlighting the critical intersection of dermatology and social justice.
Media & Expert Commentary
Dr. Guo’s expertise has been featured in numerous national publications and media outlets:
- NewBeauty Magazine – “How to Prevent an Overfilled Look, According to Top Injectors” (November 2024)
- NewBeauty Magazine – “Inside the Latest Beauty Tech Changing Skin and Hair Care Forever” (October 2024)
- SiriusXM Doctor’s Radio – “New Beginnings: Pro-Bono Laser Tattoo Removal for Survivors of Sex Trafficking” (March 2024)
- Good Housekeeping – “All of Your Questions About Laser Hair Removal for Men, Answered” (June 2023)
- Practical Dermatology Podcast – “ASLMS New Beginnings Initiative” (December 2022)
- Dermatology News and MD Edge Dermatology – “Restoring dignity to sex trafficking survivors, one tattoo removal at a time” (May 2022)
- Insider – “Microneedle patch stops early unpoppable zits in their tracks” (May 2022)
- Self Magazine – “The 15 Best Clarifying Shampoos to Remove Residue, Oil, and Buildup” (April 2022)
- Prevention Magazine – “Introducing Prevention’s 2022 Healthy Skin Awards: Top-Rated Products Loved by Dermatologists” (March 2022)
- Prevention Magazine – “More Than Half of Postmenopausal Women Will Experience Female Hair Loss, Study Says” (February 2022)
- Prevention Magazine – “12 Best Hypoallergenic Makeup Brands to Upgrade Your Sensitive Skincare Routine” (December 2021)
Presentations & Speaking Engagements
Dr. Guo is an active educator and speaker, regularly presenting at national conferences and academic institutions:
Recent Oral Presentations (2024-2025)
- “Treatment of Rosacea with a New Generation 595-nm Pulsed-Dye Laser: A Split-Face Comparative Study” – American Society for Laser Medicine & Surgery 44th Annual Conference, Orlando, FL (April 2025)
- “Laser Therapy of Self-Harm Scars and an Algorithm for Treatment” – American Society for Laser Medicine & Surgery 44th Annual Conference, Orlando, FL (April 2025)
- “Pulsed Dye Laser” – Dueling Doctors, Part 1: Vascular Therapies, American Society for Laser Medicine & Surgery 43rd Annual Conference, Baltimore, MD (April 2024)
- “Efficacy of 785-nm Picosecond Titanium Sapphire Laser for Treatment of Brown Nevus of Ota Lesions in FST II-V: A Retrospective Analysis” – American Society for Laser Medicine & Surgery 43rd Annual Conference, Baltimore, MD (April 2024)
Invited Lectures (2022-2025)
- “Lasers Across the Spectrum” – UTHealth Houston McGovern Medical School Dermatology Interest Group (April 2025)
- “Solta Elevation Tour: Thermage FLX, Fraxel, Clear & Brilliant” – Solta, Houston, TX (November 2024)
- “Lasers Across the Spectrum” – Houston Dermatologic Society (April 2024)
- “Laser Treatments in Skin of Color” – Emory University Dermatology Grand Rounds (June 2022)
- “Laser Treatments in Skin of Color” – Georgetown University Department of Dermatology (June 2022)
- “UltraClear Laser” – Acclaro, Austin, TX (November 2022)
Additional Presentations
Dr. Guo has delivered 50+ presentations at local and national conferences including the American Society for Laser Medicine & Surgery, American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, American Academy of Dermatology, and numerous academic medical centers.
Specialized Services and Expertise
Dr. Guo’s practice encompasses the full spectrum of dermatological care with particular expertise in:
Advanced Laser Treatments
- Fractional laser resurfacing for skin rejuvenation and scar revision
- Picosecond laser technology for pigmented lesions, tattoo removal, and birthmarks
- Pulsed dye laser therapy for rosacea, vascular lesions, and port-wine stains
- Non-ablative fractional photothermolysis for photoaging, texture improvement, and melasma
- Ablative fractional laser resurfacing for advanced skin rejuvenation
- Laser hair removal across all skin types
- Humanitarian tattoo removal for trafficking survivors
Cosmetic Dermatology
- Injectable treatments (BOTOX®, dermal fillers)
- Combination therapies for optimal aesthetic outcomes
- Non-surgical facial rejuvenation
- Advanced anti-aging treatments
Medical Dermatology
- Specialized treatment of dermatologic conditions in skin of color
- Acne and rosacea management
- Keloid and scar treatments
- Skin cancer screening
Why Choose Dr. Emily L. Guo
Unparalleled Expertise
- Board-certified dermatologist with fellowship training in cosmetic dermatologic surgery
- 20+ peer-reviewed publications in leading medical journals
- Specialized expertise in laser medicine and skin of color dermatology
- Continuous education and training in cutting-edge technologies
Evidence-Based Care
- Treatment plans based on clinical research and proven outcomes
- Active contributor to dermatological literature and innovation
- Commitment to advancing the field through research and education
Compassionate Patient Care
- Personalized consultations with realistic expectations
- Attention to individual skin type and aesthetic goals
- Commitment to patient safety and satisfaction
- Humanitarian work demonstrating dedication to community
Advanced Technology
- Access to state-of-the-art laser systems and equipment
- Expertise in multiple laser wavelengths and modalities
- Combination treatment approaches for optimal results
Professional Recognition
- Leadership positions in major dermatological organizations
- Featured in national media and publications
- Recognized for clinical excellence and humanitarian work
- Adjunct faculty at University of Texas Health Science Center
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if laser treatment is right for me?
Dr. Guo conducts comprehensive consultations to evaluate your skin condition, medical history, aesthetic goals, and skin type. During this assessment, she’ll determine if you’re a good candidate for laser treatments and discuss all available options, including alternative approaches.
What makes Dr. Guo's laser treatments different?
With years of clinical experience, over 20 published research papers on laser dermatology, and advanced fellowship training under Dr. Paul M. Friedman, Dr. Guo combines evidence-based medicine with the latest technology. Her specialized expertise in skin of color dermatology ensures you receive treatments optimized for your specific skin type.
Are there financing options available?
Yes, we offer convenient financing through CareCredit® and Alphaeon™. A member of our staff can help you learn more about your options.
Do you treat patients with skin of color?
Yes. Dr. Guo has specialized expertise in treating dermatologic conditions and performing laser procedures in patients with skin of color. She has published research on optimizing laser treatments across all skin types and is committed to providing equitable, high-quality dermatological care.