Meet Dr. Heather Richmond: Houston’s Leading Dermatologist with Expertise in Skin of Color
Heather Richmond, M.D., F.A.A.D. stands as one of Houston’s most distinguished dermatologists, bringing 15 years of specialized expertise in medical dermatology, cosmetic dermatology, and advanced laser surgery to patients throughout the greater Houston area. As a board-certified dermatologist and Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology, Dr. Richmond has established herself as a leading force in dermatological care, combining cutting-edge technology with compassionate patient care and a deep commitment to treating all skin types with excellence.
About Dr. Heather Richmond
Dr. Heather Richmond’s journey in dermatology began with her undergraduate education at Yale University, where she graduated Cum Laude with Distinction in the Major with a degree in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology. She earned her medical degree from the University of California, Irvine School of Medicine, where she graduated with Distinction in Service and Distinction in Research, placing her in the top 10% of her medical school class.
Following medical school, Dr. Richmond completed her internal medicine internship at the prestigious Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, then pursued advanced dermatology residency training at the University of Texas Houston/MD Anderson Cancer Center—one of the nation’s leading cancer and dermatology centers. During her final year of residency, she served as Chief Resident, demonstrating her clinical excellence and leadership capabilities.
This comprehensive training foundation has enabled Dr. Richmond to become a true authority in dermatology, with expertise spanning medical dermatology, surgical dermatology, and cosmetic dermatology. Her practice serves patients from across Houston, including the Medical Center, River Oaks, Memorial, The Woodlands, and surrounding communities.
Practice Statistics & Experience
- 15+ years of dermatological practice experience in the Houston area (2008-present)
- 17 peer-reviewed publications in leading medical journals
- Principal Investigator for clinical trials (LOOP Study, AbbVie)
- Texas Super Doctor recognition (2017-2025)
- America’s Top Dermatologists (2013-2016)
- Specialized expertise in treating skin of color and all ethnicities
- Multi-generational patient practice with exceptional patient retention
Educational Excellence and Training
Dr. Richmond’s educational credentials reflect her commitment to excellence in dermatological care:
Undergraduate Education
Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut (1998-2002)
- B.A. in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology
- Graduated Cum Laude with Distinction in the Major
Medical Education
University of California, Irvine School of Medicine (2002-2007)
- M.D. with Distinction in Service and Distinction in Research
- Graduated in the top 10% of her medical school class
- Recipient of the Janet M. Glasgow Achievement Citation
Clinical Training
- Internal Medicine Internship: Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California (2007-2008)
- Dermatology Residency: University of Texas Houston/MD Anderson Cancer Center (2008-2011)
- Served as Chief Resident during final year (2010-2011)
- Completed advanced training in medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology
- Trained at one of the nation’s premier cancer and dermatology centers
Board Certifications & Professional Affiliations
- American Board of Dermatology– Board Certified
- Fellowship Trainedin Dermatology and Laser Surgery
- Active Medical License:Texas State Medical Board
- Fellow, American Academy of Dermatology (F.A.A.D.)
Professional Society Memberships
- Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society
- American Academy of Dermatology
- American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery
- American Society of Dermatologic Surgery
- Harris County Medical Society
Honors and Awards
Dr. Richmond has received numerous prestigious honors and awards throughout her medical career, recognizing her commitment to clinical excellence, research, and service:
Medical School Honors
- Basic Science Certificate of Excellence — UC Irvine School of Medicine, Irvine, CA (2003)
- Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society Award for Outstanding Service Project — “Pals at UCI,” a mentorship program for chronically-ill children (2004)
- Best Student Poster — WGEA/WGSA Regional Conference, “A Medical Student Initiative to Foster Relationships with Chronically Ill Children and Their Families (Pals),” Pacific Grove, CA (2004)
- Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society Membership — Elected as junior medical student, UC Irvine School of Medicine, Irvine, CA (2005)
- Marian Meyer Scholarship — Silver Anchor Auxiliary, Huntington Beach Hospital (two-time recipient, 2004-2005 & 2005-2006 Academic Years)
- Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society Medical Student Research Fellowship Award — Awarded for work with Dr. Madeleine Duvic at the UT MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX (2006)
- Nathan Weinstein Memorial Research Award — Awarded at graduation for the best basic science research project applicable to the clinical sciences, UC Irvine School of Medicine, Irvine, CA (2007)
- Janet M. Glasgow Achievement Citation — Awarded for graduating in the top 10% of the medical school class, UC Irvine School of Medicine, Irvine, CA (2007)
Professional Recognition
- Texas Super Doctors “Rising Star” (2013-2015)
- America’s Top Dermatologists (2013-2016)
- Top Doctors, Texas Monthly (July 2015)
- Texas Super Doctors (2017-2025)
Research Excellence and Publications
With 17 peer-reviewed publications in leading medical journals, Dr. Richmond has made substantial contributions to dermatological research. Her work represents a comprehensive body of research in laser dermatology, medical dermatology, and cosmetic procedures, spanning over a decade of clinical investigation and innovation.
Dr. Heather M. Richmond’s Research Publications
Caiozzo VJ, Richmond H, Kaska S, Valeroso D. “The mechanical behavior of activated skeletal muscle during stretch: effects of muscle unloading and MHC isoform shifts.” Journal of Applied Physiology. 2007 Oct;103(4):1150-60.
Richmond H, Zwerner J, Kim Y, Fiorentino D. “Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis: relationship to gadolinium and response to photopheresis.” Archives of Dermatology. 2007 Aug;143(8):1025-30. Erratum in: Archives of Dermatology. 2007 Dec;143(12):1565.
Richmond H, Lozano A, Jones D, Duvic M. “Primary cutaneous follicle center lymphoma associated with alopecia areata.” Clinical Lymphoma Myeloma. 2008 Apr;8(2):121-4.
Ni X, Richmond H, Xingsheng L, Shiue L, Shpall E, Duvic M. “Induction of T-cell responses against cutaneous T-cell lymphomas ex vivo by autologous dendritic cells transfected with amplified tumor RNA.” Journal of Investigative Dermatology. 2008 Nov;128(11):2631-9.
Ni X, Richmond H, Shpall E, Duvic M. “Induction of polyclonal T-Cell responses against cutaneous T-Cell lymphomas by autologous dendritic cells transfected with amplified tumor RNA.” Blood. 2006 Nov;108(11).
Richmond HR, Duvic M, MacFarlane DF. “Primary and metastatic malignant tumors of the scalp: an update.” American Journal of Clinical Dermatology. 2010; 11(4):233-46.
Duvic M, Donato M, Dabaja B, Richmond H, Singh L, Wei W, Achonolu S, Khouri I, Champlin R, Hosing C. “Total skin electron beam and non-myeloablative allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in advanced mycosis fungoides and Sézary syndrome.” Journal of Clinical Oncology. 2010 May 10; 28(14):2365-72.
Diamantis M, Richmond H, Rady P, Tyring S, Cutlan J, Torres-Cabala C, Hymes S. “Detection of human papillomavirus in multiple eccrine poromas in a patient with chronic graft-versus-host disease and immunosuppression.” Archives of Dermatology. 2011 Jan;147(1):120-2.
Mease PJ, Liu C, Siegel E, Richmond H, Wu M, Chen L, Douglas K, Lockshin B. “Impact of Clinical Specialty Setting and Geographic Regions on Disease Management in Patients with Psoriatic Arthritis in the United States: A Multicenter Observational Study.” American Journal of Clinical Dermatology. 2019 Dec;20(6):873-880. doi: 10.1007/s40257-019-00470-6. PMID: 31612380; PMCID: PMC6872709.
Suggs AK, Macri A, Richmond H, Munavalli G, Friedman PM. “Treatment of Erythematotelangiectatic Rosacea With Pulsed-Dye Laser and Oxymetazoline 1.0% Cream: A Retrospective Study.” Lasers in Surgery and Medicine. 2020 Jan;52(1):38-43.
Sodha P, Richmond H, Friedman PM. “Safe and Effective Use of a Novel Large Spot Size 595-nm Pulsed Dye Laser With High Energies for Rapid Improvement of Adult and Pediatric Port-Wine Birthmarks.” Dermatologic Surgery. 2021 Aug 1;47(8):1147-1149.
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 in Surgery and Medicine. 2023 Jan;55(1):67-72.
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 type III-VI.” Lasers in Surgery and Medicine. 2023 Jan;55(1):99-104.
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 in Surgery and Medicine. 2024 Jan;56(1):19-22.
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 in Surgery and Medicine. 2024 Mar;56(3):257-262.
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.” Dermatologic Surgery. 2024 Nov 1;50(11):1046-1049.
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.” Dermatologic Surgery. 2025 Aug 15. Online ahead of print.
Principal Investigator, LOOP Study (2016-2017)
A Cross-sectional Observational Study Evaluating Clinical Specialty Setting as Determinant of Management in Patients with Psoriatic Arthritis, sponsored by AbbVie. This research contributed to understanding how dermatologists approach complex systemic conditions with cutaneous manifestations.
Dr. Richmond regularly presents her research at national and international conferences, contributing to the advancement of dermatological knowledge:
Conference Abstracts (2022-2025)
Kubicki SL, Guo E, Richmond H, Friedman PM. “1064-nm QS Nd:YAG Laser Treatment of Nevus of Ota in Black Patients.” Lasers in Surgery and Medicine; 2022 (Suppl 34): S38.
Kubicki SL, Guo E, Sodha P, H Richmond, Friedman PM. “Combination 1550 nm Non-Ablative Fractional Resurfacing and Laser Hair Removal for Treatment of Hypertrichotic Becker’s Nevi in Skin Types III-VI.” Lasers in Surgery and Medicine; 2022 (Suppl 34): S38.
Murray T, Kubicki S, Richmond H, Friedman PM. “Single Treatment Facial Resurfacing with a Novel Ablative Fractional 2910 nm Fiber Laser.” Lasers in Surgery and Medicine; 2023 (Suppl 35): S72.
Murray T, Kubicki S, Guo E, Richmond H, Friedman PM. “Single Treatment Scar Resurfacing with a Novel Ablative Fractional 2,910 nm Fiber Laser.” Lasers in Surgery and Medicine; 2023 (Suppl 35): S73.
Fernandez J, Friedman PM, Richmond H, Guo E, Murray T. “Novel 730 nm Picosecond Titanium Sapphire Laser for Treatment of Café-Au-Lait Macules in Skin Types III-VI.” Lasers in Surgery and Medicine; 2023 (Suppl 35): S152.
Dick, M., Steele, C., Waibel, J., Richmond, H., Guo, E., Friedman, P., (2025, April). “Laser Therapy of Self-Harm Scars and an Algorithm for Treatment.” American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery Annual Meeting, Orlando, FL.
Dick, M., Richmond, H., Guo, E., Friedman, P., (2025, April). “Treatment Of Rosacea With A New Generation 595-Nm Pulsed-Dye Laser: A Split-Face Comparative Study.” American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery Annual Meeting, Orlando, FL.
Dr. Richmond has been invited to present her clinical expertise and research findings at prestigious academic institutions and professional societies:
3rd Annual U.C. Irvine Multidisciplinary Exercise Science Retreat — Newport Beach, CA (May 13-14, 2004)
“The effects of mechanical unloading on the short-range-stiffness and elastic modulus of skeletal muscle”
University of California, Irvine, Department of Dermatology Grand Rounds — Irvine, CA (July 26, 2006)
“Current treatment of Sézary syndrome”
Stanford University, Department of Dermatology Grand Rounds — Palo Alto, CA (August 22, 2006)
“Nephrogenic fibrosing dermopathy/Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis”
17th Annual John M. Knox Lecture, Houston Dermatological Society — Houston, TX (November 21, 2009)
“Dermatomyositis with panniculitis and lipoatrophy”
2011 Spring Meeting, Texas Dermatological Society — Houston, TX (May 14, 2011)
“Epidermodysplasia Verruciformis in a patient with HIV/AIDS”
Dr. Richmond has presented her research at major regional and national conferences:
2004 WGEA/WGSA Regional Conference — Pacific Grove, CA (April 25-28, 2004)
Chang T, H Richmond, and F Staiti. “A medical student initiative to foster relationships with chronically ill children and their families (Pals).” The Reflective Practitioner: WGEA/WGSA Regional Conference. 46: 1P-3 2004.
50th Annual Meeting of the Orthopaedic Research Society — San Francisco, CA (March 7-10, 2004)
Richmond H, VJ Caiozzo. “The effects of mechanical unloading on the short-range-stiffness and elastic modulus of skeletal muscle.” Transactions of the 50th Orthopaedic Research Society. 29: 903 2004.
American College of Rheumatology Annual Meeting — Chicago, IL (October 19-24, 2018)
Mease PJ, C Liu, E Siegel, H Richmond, M Wu, L Chen, K Douglas, B Lockshin. “Impact of Clinical Specialty Setting and Geographic Regions on Disease Management in Patients with Psoriatic Arthritis: Results from a Cross-sectional Observational Study in the United States.”
Clinical Expertise and Specializations
Dr. Richmond offers comprehensive dermatological care across medical, surgical, and cosmetic disciplines:
Medical Dermatology
- Acne and acne scarring management
- Rosacea and vascular conditions
- Eczema and atopic dermatitis
- Psoriasis and inflammatory skin conditions
- Discoloration and pigmentation disorders
- Skin cancer screening and diagnosis
- Specialized expertise in treating skin of color and all ethnicities
Cosmetic and Laser Dermatology
- Advanced laser treatments and skin resurfacing
- Fractional laser resurfacing for rejuvenation and scar treatment
- Laser hair removal
- Laser treatment of vascular lesions and port-wine birthmarks
- Treatment of pigmented lesions (nevus of ota, café-au-lait macules, Becker’s nevi)
- Scar revision and resurfacing with cutting-edge technology
- Skin tightening and rejuvenation
- Cutting-edge 2910 nm erbium-doped fiber laser technology
Injectable and Aesthetic Treatments
- BOTOX and neuromodulators
- Dermal fillers and volumization
- Anti-aging treatments
- Natural enhancement philosophy focused on subtle, progressive results
Surgical Dermatology
- Excisional surgery and skin lesion removal
- Mole removal and biopsy
- Cyst and lipoma removal
Our Approach to Care
Natural Results and Subtle Enhancement
Dr. Richmond believes in providing subtle enhancements over time to maintain a very natural and healthy-appearing result. Rather than dramatic transformations, she focuses on enhancing her patients’ natural features and helping them look like the best version of themselves. This philosophy applies to both cosmetic injectables and laser treatments, where conservative, progressive approaches often yield the most satisfying long-term outcomes.
Comprehensive Treatment Planning
As Dr. Richmond states, “The most beautiful results come from understanding what each patient truly wants and combining the right medical and cosmetic tools to achieve it naturally.” Her comprehensive approach means she evaluates each patient’s complete dermatological needs—not just the presenting concern—and recommends integrated treatment plans that address both medical and aesthetic goals.
Warm, Approachable, and Transparent Environment
Dr. Richmond is committed to providing a warm, approachable, and transparent clinic environment so that patients feel as comfortable as possible with their treatments and plan of care. She takes time to explain procedures, discuss realistic expectations, and address any concerns. This patient-centered approach has resulted in many long-term relationships and referrals from satisfied patients.
Multi-Generational Family Care
Dr. Richmond’s practice is built on continuity of care. Many of her patients have followed her throughout her entire career, and she takes pride in caring for multiple generations within the same family. This approach allows her to understand each patient’s skin history, treatment response patterns, and evolving needs over time—resulting in more personalized and effective care.
Safety Protocols & Quality Assurance
Patient safety is paramount at Dr. Richmond’s practice. Our comprehensive safety protocols include:
Safety Measures
- Sterile technique protocols for all procedures
- Advanced laser safety certification for all staff
- Emergency response procedures and equipment
- Infection control measures exceeding industry standards
- Regular equipment calibration and maintenance
Quality Assurance
- Board certification maintenance through continuing education
- Peer review participation in professional organizations
- Patient outcome tracking and quality improvement initiatives
- Staff training and certification programs
- Evidence-based treatment protocols
Consultation Process & Patient Care
What to Expect During Your Consultation
Dr. Richmond believes in thorough, personalized consultations that typically include:
- Comprehensive skin assessment and medical history review
- Digital imaging and analysis when appropriate
- Detailed treatment plan discussion with realistic expectations
- Risk and benefit analysis for all recommended procedures
- Cost transparency and financing options review
Treatment Risks & Realistic Expectations
All medical procedures carry inherent risks. Dr. Richmond ensures patients understand:
- Realistic timeline for results and recovery
- Alternative treatment options when applicable
- Post-treatment care requirements and follow-up schedule
- Common side effects and their duration
- Rare but serious complications and their management
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if laser treatment is right for me?
Dr. Richmond conducts comprehensive consultations to evaluate your skin condition, medical history, and aesthetic goals. During this assessment, she’ll determine if you’re a good candidate for laser treatments and discuss all available options.
What makes Dr. Richmond's laser treatments different?
With over 15 years of experience and 17 published research papers on laser dermatology and skin conditions, Dr. Richmond combines evidence-based medicine with the latest technology. Her fellowship training and active participation in professional societies ensure you receive the most advanced, safest treatments available.
Does Dr. Richmond have experience treating skin of color?
Yes. Dr. Richmond has extensive experience treating patients of all ethnicities and skin types. Having practiced exclusively in Houston since 2008, she has developed specialized knowledge in managing conditions specific to skin of color, including post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, keloid prevention, and ethnic-specific skin concerns. She takes a customized approach to ensure treatments are safe and effective for each patient’s unique skin characteristics.
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.
What should I expect during my first visit?
During your initial consultation, Dr. Richmond will take time to understand your concerns, review your medical history, and examine your skin. She will discuss treatment options, realistic expectations, and answer any questions you have. If you decide to proceed with treatment, she will explain the procedure in detail and provide pre- and post-care instructions to optimize your results.
What makes Dr. Richmond's approach to laser treatment unique?
Dr. Richmond stays at the forefront of laser technology and has published extensively on advanced laser treatments for diverse skin types. Her research includes novel applications of picosecond lasers, fractional resurfacing, and pulsed-dye laser therapy. She combines this cutting-edge knowledge with a conservative, patient-centered approach to ensure optimal results with minimal downtime.
How does Dr. Richmond stay current with new dermatological treatments?
Dr. Richmond maintains her expertise through active participation in professional societies, regular attendance at dermatology conferences, and ongoing clinical research. She serves as a principal investigator in clinical trials and regularly presents her findings at national conferences, ensuring her patients benefit from the latest evidence-based treatments and techniques.