Dr. Jenny Sobera founded Village Dermatology in Mountain Brook in 2008 to provide science-backed, evidence-based skincare services on the cutting edge of dermatological advances. Today, she leads a team serving tens of thousands of patients throughout the state, with locations in Mountain Brook, Gardendale, Auburn, and Oneonta.
Dr. Sobera also serves as a volunteer dermatologist and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Christ Health Center, an organization making health services more affordable and accessible to uninsured and low-income patients. Get to know this inspiring FACE of Birmingham!
Tell us a little about you!
I am from Selma, AL. My mom and I moved to Birmingham when I was two, after my parents got divorced. My mom married my stepdad and had two boys, Colton and Hunter. My dad and stepmom also had two kids, Ashley and Allen. We have a blended family, but it’s really fun, and that’s just what I know and love. I have four kids ranging from 13 to 26.
What led you to dermatology?
When I was in medical school, I wanted to go into many different fields. I feel like I was changing my plan about once a year! I got pregnant with my first son, Will, during my third year and was granted a year off to spend at home with him. He is now 26! When I went back, I had a dermatology rotation, which I only signed up for because I didn’t know much about the field.
When I did this rotation, I immediately knew I wanted to go into dermatology. It is a very visual field, and I loved seeing patients of all ages. I have a real love for aesthetics and beauty, which is why I also love growing flowers. Both dermatology and gardening allow me to use my science-oriented brain while fulfilling my love of beauty.
If you could debunk one skincare myth, what would it be?
“I need to get sun because I need vitamin D.” Foods and supplements are much safer to get the vitamin D your body needs. Also, especially in the South, we get a good bit of unintentional sun exposure just doing our daily activities.
Aesthetic skincare is a booming industry. What tips do you have to help women navigate the sea of ‘miracle’ treatments?
Consult an expert. Dermatologists and their teams are experts in skin, skincare, and skin treatments. The latest TikTok trends are leading so many people to bad outcomes and wasted money. Would you rather trust a random social media post or a board-certified expert with your skin?
Tell us all about the new LABL Studio at Village Dermatology.
LABL is an extension of our long-standing philosophy at Village: we want our patients to “Live A Beautiful Life.” LABL also reflects the importance of a skincare label and the information and ingredients on it. We have three skincare experts under the direction of five board-certified dermatologists. Our skincare is best in class, focusing on skin health and helping our patients achieve their goals — now and throughout their lifetime.
What is one ‘secret’ to lifelong beautiful skin that everyone should know?
It sounds obvious, but sun protection. The sun damages the DNA in your skin, plain and simple. This leads to aging and even cancer. A BBL, or “broadband light” treatment, is another must-have for those who desire beautiful skin for a lifetime. Whether you want to correct existing sun damage or prevent damage and maintain your skin, a BBL should be in your yearly plan. It has very little downtime and doesn’t break the budget.
Are there any promising dermatology advancements that are exciting you right now?
Medically, we are seeing not only improved skin cancer detection but also improved treatments that target the cancer and prolong life. Aesthetically, natural results and safety are much more emphasized. This comes from the combination of a wider range of fillers, toxins, and procedures to choose from, and an increased depth of knowledge and access to new training and techniques.
Tell us about your work with the Christ Health Center.
I have been a volunteer dermatologist there for close to 13 years. I have loved watching it grow and seeing the impact it has made (and continues to make) on the Woodlawn and Clay-Chalkville communities. As a dermatologist, I have been able to create accessibility for uninsured patients where there once was a lack.
What do you like to do when you’re not working?
Besides being a wife and mom, gardening is my favorite activity. I have two greenhouses and a very large orchid collection. I also love houseplants and growing flowers for cutting and arranging.
Who or what is inspiring you right now?
Reading about the German occupation of France during WWII. I have read several historical fiction books about this recently, and I am in awe and so inspired by the grit and determination of people, especially those who risked their lives for others.
What is your best piece of advice?
Whether it’s my kids, my staff, or a friend needing advice, I always say, “Be nice, be honest, and be quick to apologize.”
Aside from faith, family, and friends, name three things you can’t live without.
Coffee, skincare, and my plants!
Lightning Round!
Last delicious local meal: It’s not a meal … but a cake from Daughters Baking. Delicious!
Favorite place to vacation: 30A
Your go-to gift to give: A bouquet from my garden or an orchid from my collection.
Favorite recent TV show binge: Drops of God
Book(s) on your bedside table: The Nightingale by Kristen Hannah and my Bible.
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Birmingham women are doing inspiring work. Meet more of them over at our FACES archives!
