Meet a Mom Monday, introducing Dr. Nina Antonov, a new Fairfield Mom who recently joined the team at Modern Dermatology! We asked Dr. Nina more about her new life here in Fairfield, as well as her new position at Modern Dermatology. She gave us some great insight into the latest advances in Dermatology, along with some of her favorite skin care products, and her favorite SPF products (for both herself and for kids)! Read more below and reach out to her (contact info below) to schedule your next appointment or cosmetic consultation!
Welcome to Fairfield! Tell us about your family!
I met my husband Dmitriy (who is also a board-certified dermatologist) in residency at Columbia University and we welcomed our son Misha a few years later. We stayed in NYC for 2 years after completing residency before moving to Connecticut. Needless to say, it’s been a busy past few years for our family.
When did you move to Fairfield and what brought you here?
We just moved here in June! I actually grew up in Stamford, so Fairfield County has always had a special place in my heart. When deciding to make the move out of NYC, we looked in many different towns, and we were drawn to the family-friendly vibe, the parks, and beaches of Fairfield!
One thing people would be surprised to know about you?
I have seen more episodes of The Bachelor and The Real Housewives than I care to admit.
One thing you wish someone would have told you about motherhood?
How much you stop caring about privacy and personal space once you’ve been through childbirth, nursing, and raising a toddler who is attached to you at the hip!
What’s your favorite thing about raising a family in Fairfield?
We’re still new to town, so really everything we do feels new and exciting! So far, our favorites are discovering new playgrounds with Misha, going to the beach, taking walks around our neighborhood, and trying new restaurants.
Best mom hack that makes your life easier?
I don’t know if there is really such thing as a “hack” when it comes to being a mom, but I have found that sticking to routines can be incredibly helpful. This includes having a bedtime/naptime routine, eating around the same times each day and generally keeping to a similar schedule. And when all else fails, a little bit of cartoons.
photo by @juliadags
Where do you practice Dermatology?
I’m thrilled to have recently joined the amazing team at Modern Dermatology, just over the town line in Westport. I love that the practice has all of the latest and greatest technology, products and services – it is the perfect place for me to continue delivering comprehensive care across medical and surgical dermatology, as well as cosmetics. This office is truly a one-stop destination for the entire family – and I am happily accepting new medical and cosmetic patients. You can schedule an appointment or cosmetic consultation with the office (203) 635-0770 or email [email protected].
What are some of the latest advances in Dermatology that most excites you?
There are many new and effective treatments for chronic skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis that can provide near clearance for many patients. It is so rewarding to see patients who have previously suffered for many years be able to see their skin clear and enjoy a better quality of life. I am hopeful about the newer therapies coming down the pipeline for other conditions that are difficult to treat such as vitiligo and autoimmune hair loss.
What is the #1 thing you would like Moms to know about skin when it comes to their kids?
Just one?! I’d highlight that sun damage is cumulative and that children’s skin is much more sensitive to the harmful effects of the sun, so the best thing you can do is to start protecting their skin from day 1. If you make sunscreen as routine as putting on shoes before you walk out the door, they will pick up the habit. Just as important as SPF are sun protective clothing, hats, sunglasses, and seeking shade in the midday sun. Secondly – trust your gut! If you notice something going on with your child’s skin, nails or hair, you’re never going to regret having it looked at by a dermatologist. So, stop going down google rabbit holes, that’s what we’re here for!
What are your can’t-live-without skincare products?
Aquaphor, it is so versatile for healing cuts, dry lips, dry skin, diaper rashes, etc. I’m also a huge fan of Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Hand Cream, which is especially useful in preventing dry skin and hand eczema with all of the hand washing and sanitizing we’ve been doing recently.
Favorite SPFs for summer?
I love the EltaMD line. For my son, I use Blue Lizard Baby and the Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Kids Sunscreen Stick because they are 100% mineral based.
What made you choose Dermatology? If you hadn’t chosen Dermatology, what do you think you’d be doing today?
I like that it’s a mix of medicine and procedures, and that I get to see children and adults. I also find skin disease to be fascinating, and it can be very rewarding to make a diagnosis just by the power of observation. I enjoy forming long-term relationships with patients and seeing them get better.
If I hadn’t chosen dermatology, I might have become an actuary, because I always really liked math and statistics.
Best advice for moms who experience the inevitable MOM GUILT handling a career and a family?
Having childcare that you fully trust and feel good about is key. I know that Misha is in great hands with our nanny so I can fully focus on my job when I’m at work. I also think it’s important to spend quality time with your kids during the week, such as making them breakfast in the morning or reading books in the evening. It can be hard, but raising a child is not meant to be a 1-person job.
Who has most influenced you to be the mother that you are today?
My parents and my grandparents. My mother because she has always been my biggest supporter. My grandfather as well, I was very close with him growing up. Although he passed away when I was still young, his kindness and patience made a lasting impression on me.
What advice would you share with a new mom or other moms?
To not put too much pressure on yourself to be perfect or get everything right. Being a mom is hard work and the challenges and stages are constantly changing. I definitely have found motherhood to be humbling and overwhelming, especially in the beginning, but it is also a very rewarding experience. I would also strongly recommend seeking the advice of other mom friends, they can be a great source of support and wisdom!
We love supporting local businesses – favorite places in Fairfield to…
Have Dinner with Family: Outside at Centro’s!
Grab a Drink with Friends: Malibu Taco or The Chelsea
Have a Date Night: The Sinclair or Martel
Spend time together as a Family: The beach!
Shop: Penfield Collective and The Beehive
Grab coffee: Las Vetas
Follow along @moderndermct and @ninaantonovmd for skincare tips for the whole family!