Get to Know Michelle Budnick, PA-C: A Passion for Dermatology and Patient Care
At McKay Dermatology & MedSpa, we’re proud to offer a warm, patient-centered experience with providers like Michelle Budnick, PA-C, who brings over 20 years of expertise and a passion for dermatology. Her career began in 2003, and she’s worked alongside top physicians while developing a deep commitment to patient care. In this Q&A, Michelle shares her journey—from catching hidden skin cancers to boosting teens' confidence through acne treatments—and why she loves being part of the McKay Dermatology family.
Q&A with Michelle Budnick, PA-C:
How long have you been working for McKay Dermatology and MedSpa?
I worked for McKay Dermatology part time 12 years ago before taking some time off to stay home with my kids. Since returning, I have been with McKay Dermatology consistently for the last 6 years.
Tell us a little about yourself outside of work:
I have two amazing kids, Brenden 14 and Brielle 11, who are the light of my life. I try to stay involved in their activities as much as possible. I enjoy paddle boarding, live music and any other activities we can do as a family.
What’s your favorite thing about working in skincare?
My favorite thing about woking in skincare is being on the forefront of learning about all the new advances in both medical and cosmetic dermatology.
What are some of the most rewarding aspects of your job?
Whether it is treating a rash or performing Botox, I love to see the smiles on my patients’ faces when we are able to accomplish their skin goals.
What do you like most about working at McKay Dermatology and MedSpa?
The feeling that we are one big family here at McKay Dermatology. I've never worked anywhere else where the physician, PA's, nurse practitioners, and the rest of the staff all work so well together in such a warm, caring environment. Everyone is so supportive both inside and outside of the workplace.
What are your favorite services to perform?
I love that I'm able to provide a variety of both cosmetic and medical services.
On the cosmetic side, the Lumecca, IPL laser is my favorite. Even in one treatment, patients can see a significant improvement in their brown and red spots.
Medically, I love treating teenagers for acne. It's amazing how just a little bit of improvement of a patient's acne can significantly change their self-esteem.
What are your favorite skincare products or brands?
The ISDIN brand products are my favorite. I love the Vitamin C and Retinal Advanced. We offer a large selection of ISDIN products right here in the McKay Dermatology office.
What trends or advancements in dermatology are you most excited about?
There have been so many great advances in therapies to treat psoriasis and eczema. We are able to achieve a much higher level of control with the newer medications available.
Can you share a memorable success story from your time practicing dermatology?
It always amazes me when I do a skin check and see a lesion that just looks a little bit abnormal, but do a biopsy only to find out it is Melanoma. There was even a time I found an angiosarcoma, another rare type of cancer. I have learned from my years of experience that skin cancer doesn't always follow the rules and if there is any doubt, a biopsy should be done. It may not always come back as expected.
What’s one part of your personal skincare routine that you never skip?
Sunblock. Before I leave the house every morning, I use ISDN Ageless Tinted Sunscreen.
Any final remarks?
You will never find a more caring and generous physician than Dr. McKay. She always goes above and beyond for her patients and staff. That is what is so wonderful about being a smaller private practice. We are unique because we do not overbook so we are able to take our time with our patients and treat them as individuals.
Michelle’s Bio:
Michelle Budnick, PA-C is a board-certified Physician Assistant with over a decade of experience in Dermatology. After attending The University of Florida for undergraduate studies, she completed her Physician Assistant studies at Nova Southeastern University in Ft Lauderdale, FL. It was at Nova that she received her degree in PA studies as well as a Master of Public Health Degree. Michelle has been practicing Dermatology since she graduated from PA School in 2003. She has practiced in Florida, Michigan and at the Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, OH. She has experience in both medical and cosmetic Dermatology. She is passionate about helping people love their skin.