Who Is Dr. Tina Alster? The Dermatologist Behind The A Method

Tina Alster, MD, FAAD, is a Washington, DC dermatologist known for her expertise in laser skin surgery and cosmetic dermatology.

Dr. Alster began her education at Duke University, where she received a B.S. in nursing magna cum laude before completing her M.D. with honors and distinction in research. She then completed a dermatology residency at Yale University and a laser surgery fellowship at Boston University from 1989 to 1990.

In 1990, she founded the Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery, where she remains the founding director. She joined the Georgetown University Medical Center faculty in 1991 and currently serves as a clinical professor of dermatology.

In the decades that followed, Dr. Alster’s research evolved in parallel with advances in laser technology and modern cosmetic dermatology. She participated in clinical trials involving lasers and other devices, contributing to research on their effectiveness and the development of technologies used in dermatologic laser surgery.

Laser skin resurfacing has evolved during her career, with newer technologies designed to reduce some risks and recovery associated with earlier approaches. Her professional practice has involved laser scar revision and fractional laser resurfacing, both closely related to her expertise in cosmetic laser surgery. In a retrospective study she co-authored, researchers reported significant improvements in skin laxity and wrinkles after combining microfocused ultrasound with ablative fractional laser resurfacing.

The Washington Institute's laser work extends beyond skin resurfacing and scar revision. Its services include laser-assisted hair removal and laser procedures for vascular and pigmented birthmarks, including port-wine stains.

At a 2015 American Academy of Dermatology meeting, Dr. Alster discussed renewed interest in microneedling and noted that it produces less heat in the skin than laser procedures.

Research, professional leadership, and physician education have been integral to Dr. Alster’s career alongside clinical practice. She has authored hundreds of articles and eight textbooks on dermatologic laser surgery. She has also participated in clinical trials studying lasers and other devices, contributing to research on their effectiveness, safety, and use within modern dermatology.

The Washington Institute's physicians have contributed to clinical trials involving Botox, Fraxel, Thermage, Restylane, CoolSculpting, and Ulthera. According to the institute's research overview, their work and clinical protocols helped bring these technologies to market and supported FDA approvals.

Dr. Alster has served in leadership and board roles across professional organizations, including the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, the American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery, and the Women's Dermatologic Society. A clinical professor of dermatology, she has also been a member of the Georgetown University Medical Center faculty since 1991. She also mentors other dermatologists and established scholarship endowments at Duke University to assist women who want to become physicians.

Dr. Alster has received national press recognition for her work in cosmetic and laser dermatology. Her awards and media recognition reflect her professional standing.

MD stands for Doctor of Medicine, while FAAD stands for Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology. Dermatologists can hold either an MD or DO degree. Both are physicians who complete medical education followed by specialized postgraduate training in dermatology.

Check for board certification, proper medical training, relevant experience, and continued participation in the field. For example, Dr. Alster is board-certified, has had extensive training in dermatology and laser, has published prolifically, teaches other doctors, and has been honored by professional dermatology groups.