Lupus Through the Looking Glass 2016

Nisha Desai, MD

Nisha S. Desai, MD, will talk about the facial malar rash, hair loss and other aesthetic ramifications of lupus, taking symposium attendees through treatment and recovery.

Dr. Desai is a board-certified dermatologist who holds a special interest in the diagnosis and treatment of hair loss disorders, and she devotes a large part of her practice at the Northwest Dermatology and Research Center toward diagnosing lupus on the scalp.

A Midwesterner who fell in love with the Pacific Northwest, Dr. Desai graduated from the University of Michigan and attended medical school at the University of Toledo before completing her residency in dermatology at OHSU in 2011. She then joined the Northwest Dermatology and Research Center. In her spare time, Dr. Desai enjoys spending time with her four girls, hiking and playing the piano.

Brenda Kay, Hair Specialist

Hair Specialist Brenda Kay will discuss her knowledge of wigs, extensions and toppers application.

She specializes in life during and after dramatic hair loss by empowering her clients to regain their confidence, wellbeing and sense of humor in a relaxed, nurturing environment. Her shop in downtown Portland offers hats, scarves and custom, fabricated wigs and pieces.

When she started her business in 1973, her mission was to liberate women from the confines of their hair; she grew to know a clientele that moved her deeply and ultimately formed her mission.  Knowing that men and women in the midst of dramatic hair loss often suffer more than the general public is aware, Brenda works to create an environment where patients can find what they need to regain confidence and comfort.

Helen Carey, Aesthetician

Aesthetician Helen Carey will share advice on finding safe cleansing and beauty products for lupus patients.

With decades of medical experience, Helen’s current expertise is focused on cosmetic and laser practice with Norris Dermatology and Laser NW, where she has been since March 2012. She guides patients on a path toward healthy skin care with the use of simple regimens and specifically selected products that deliver precise, effective outcomes that deliver long-lasting and visible results.  Helen, who holds two Bachelors of Science degrees, previously trained other professionals on the treatment of vascular lesions and the use of Candela lasers for hair reduction.

In her spare time, Helen enjoys amateur photography, gourmet cooking with family and friends, and volunteering behind the scenes with her daughters’ dance team at Milwaukie High School.