Meet Dr. Roya Javid

At the intersection of science, aesthetics, and patient-centered care, Dr. Roya Javid brings more than two decades of expertise in dermatology to today’s most pressing conversations in women’s health. As a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Coastal Valley Dermatology Associates, Dr. Javid is known for her work in skin cancer detection, chronic skin conditions, and advanced aesthetic treatments—always grounded in a philosophy that skin health is essential to overall well-being.

In this conversation, Dr. Javid shares her perspective on Skin Cancer Awareness Month, the evolving conversation around toxic exposure in everyday apparel, and what women should know about protecting their skin—both clinically and through the products they wear.

Interview Questions

Skin Cancer Awareness Month is a key moment for education—what are the most overlooked warning signs or risk factors women should be aware of today?

 We’ve done a great job teaching people to look for the classic ABCDEs of melanoma, but what often gets missed are the subtle, evolving changes that don’t look alarming at first glance. The most overlooked warning signs I see in practice are: A spot that just doesn’t heal, especially one that scabs, bleeds, or comes and goes, a lesion that looks more like a pimple, eczema, or a ‘dry patch’ but persists for weeks, and changes in areas women don’t routinely check, like the scalp, under the nails, or the back of the legs. Intermittent intense sun exposure, past tanning bed use, and cumulative UV over time remain key risk factors.

 Many women prioritize skincare routines, but may overlook medical dermatology. How do you recommend balancing prevention, early detection, and cosmetic care?

 I recommend a simple framework: daily sunscreen, annual full-body skin exams, and addressing any new or changing lesions promptly. From there, cosmetic care can be layered in thoughtfully to support both the health and longevity of the skin.

 Are there specific populations or skin types that are often underrepresented in skin cancer awareness conversations?

 Patients with darker skin tones are often underrepresented. There’s also a misconception that they’re not at risk, which leads to delayed detection, particularly in areas like the palms, soles, and nails. Skin cancer awareness needs to be inclusive as risk may vary, but no one is immune.

 A recent investigation by the Texas Attorney General is examining whether activewear brands like Lululemon may contain PFAS, often referred to as “forever chemicals,” which have been linked to health concerns, including cancer and endocrine disruption. From a dermatological perspective, how should consumers think about potential chemical exposure through clothing?

 Consumers should think about chemical exposure from clothing in terms of frequency and duration. From a dermatologic perspective, tighter, synthetic, and sweat-trapping fabrics can increase both skin irritation and potential exposure. The goal is informed choices: prioritize breathable, well-tolerated materials and be mindful of cumulative exposure over time.

 What are the long-term implications of repeated skin contact with potentially harmful chemicals, even at low levels?

 Repeated, low-level exposure can have both local and systemic implications over time, from chronic irritation or allergic contact dermatitis to potential absorption of certain compounds that may influence hormonal or inflammatory pathways. That’s why we’re paying closer attention to everyday exposures that were previously overlooked.

At Oya, we think about apparel as part of a woman’s health ecosystem—not just performance, but prevention. How do you see the role of clothing evolving in supporting skin and overall health?

 Clothing is evolving from passive wear to an active part of a woman’s health ecosystem—supporting skin barrier function, minimizing irritation, and reducing unnecessary chemical exposure. I see a shift toward thoughtfully engineered fabrics that are breathable, non-toxic, and aligned with how the skin actually functions. It’s no longer just about performance—it’s about prevention, longevity, and total skin health.

As Dr. Javid highlights, skin health isn’t just about what we apply—it’s also about what we’re exposed to, day in and day out. From early detection and inclusive awareness to the growing scrutiny around everyday materials, the conversation is expanding beyond the surface.

At Oya, this reinforces a simple but powerful idea: what we wear should support our bodies, not work against them. As innovation in women’s health continues to evolve, so does the opportunity to be more intentional—choosing products, habits, and care that protect, inform, and empower.

It’s no longer just about performance—it’s about prevention, longevity, and total skin health.

This is the same philosophy driving newer apparel innovations, including Oya’s approach to supportive, skin-conscious designs like our Tummy Control Leggings.