Taking care of others runs in the family. Dr. Stephen Mahoney, founder and director of West Houston Dermatology Laser & Skin Care Center, grew up in a family caring for others. He watched his cardiologist father care for and treat so many Memorial residents at a time when apple pies and preserves were common holiday gifts. With a family history of skin conditions, Dr. Mahoney felt drawn to medicine, specifically dermatology. After graduating from the University of Notre Dame, he received his M.D. from the University of Texas Southwestern. Then, he completed his dermatology residency at the University of Texas in Houston and in 1993, he founded his practice.
From the early days of the practice, Dr. Mahoney blazed a trail to combine cosmetic and medical dermatology. “It was important that we provide services for the entire family,” says Dr. Mahoney. “We see everyone from kids to geriatrics in our office. Patients I saw as children now bring their kids to see us. What a circle of life moment.”
In addition to Dr. Mahoney, West Houston Dermatology includes Dr. Dunn, a board-certified dermatologist, a nurse practitioner, and two medical aestheticians. “Skin is the window to systemic disease,” explains Dr. Mahoney. “I wanted to be able to treat both medical and cosmetic dermatology, so I was one of the first practices to have a nurse practitioner and an aesthetician.”
West Houston Dermatology Laser & Skin Care Center is a full-service practice from lasers to biologics. “People are very aware of their skin and looking good. Their skin becomes part of their identity. That is a key reason I wanted to offer cosmetic and medical services to patients.”
Staying on top of the latest innovations and care is nothing new for Dr. Mahoney. He was on the ground floor of laser treatments, participated in Botox trials, and recommended dosing amounts to the FDA. This commitment to cutting-edge treatments differentiates the practice and gives hope to patients. “We’re knowledgeable about skin. We lecture and educate other physicians on new medications,” says Dr. Mahoney. His patients receive the latest treatments for a high quality of life. “With new medication, we can control skin conditions today that we couldn’t in the past. My patients can have hope again.”
Even after 31 years of practice, Dr. Mahoney enjoys dermatology. “Every day is different. In a single day, I can see a newborn to a 90-year-old. From benign to serious conditions, I can work directly with my patients one-on-one to look and feel their best.”
Dr. Mahoney has found that when working with patients, they want to look like they’ve had nothing done, so subtle changes work best. “Patients should choose a medical professional who knows where to place the filler, the technique of an injection, and understands facial anatomy. There’s an artist’s eye to the science of skin.”
Dr. Mahoney shares excellent skincare tips for 2025: Research providers to choose the best dermatologist for you and get in the habit of consistent visits. Develop and be consistent with a daily routine. A good sunscreen is essential as even indoor lights are harmful. With more than 300 sunny days in Houston, it’s critical to apply daily. Build collagen by using vitamin A at night and vitamin C in the morning. Glycolic acid for cell turnover is also a great option. whderm.com