Dermatologist Marguerite Germain, M.D. is known for her passion and desire to help others. In addition to her medical training, she has long since developed an eye for beauty. Inspired by years spent traveling, particularly in Italy, her artistic talent evolved into inspiring confidence in others through her practice.
A board-certified dermatologist, Marguerite Germain, M.D. provides exceptional service in clinical and cosmetic dermatology for patients from all over South Carolina. While her warm and caring demeanor wins over the heart of everyone she meets, it’s her independent thinking, skilled precision, and technologically savvy ways that make her a leader at what she does.
After graduating from Sweet Briar College in Virginia with a major in Italian studies and a minor in science, art, language, and music, Marguerite Germain, M.D. decided to live in Italy for a year. During this time, she worked for the UN Food and Agricultural Organization while perfecting her Italian and enjoying the architecture and art of Italy.
A painter herself, Marguerite Germain, M.D. believes that dermatology is a true visual art. During her time in Italy, she discovered what she refers to as “the world’s most beautiful faces,” the detailed study of which enables her to envision and achieve beautiful results for her patients.
Upon her return to the United States, Marguerite Germain, M.D. enrolled at the University of Maryland to continue her study of the sciences in order to qualify for medical school. She then attended the University of Maryland School of Medicine, receiving a Navy Medical Scholarship. During the following four years, her deep commitment to the study of medicine earned her an internship in general medicine at the Bethesda Naval Hospital (Bethesda, Maryland).
Following her internship, she was selected for flight school, flight surgery, helicopter pilot training, and survival tactics at Pensacola Naval Air Station (Pensacola, Florida).
While completing her post-residency tour, the Navy sent Marguerite Germain, M.D. to San Diego, California, for surgical training. Marguerite Germain, M.D. was subsequently assigned to the Dallas, Texas, Naval Air Base to medically and surgically care for pilots and their families. She was then chosen by the Navy to fill one of only four coveted dermatology billets.
After three years of dermatology training, given her choice of duty stations, Marguerite Germain, M.D. selected Charleston, South Carolina. After more than three years of outstanding performance at the Charleston Naval Hospital, she decided to separate from the Navy and enter private practice. In July 2003, Marguerite Germain, M.D. moved into her own office in Mount Pleasant. Because of the amazing success and phenomenal growth of her practice, she has opened a larger, state-of-the-art facility in Mount Pleasant where she now practices with her hand picked, expert staff.
⦿ The International Society of Cosmetic and Laser Surgeons
⦿ The American Society of Cosmetic Dermatology & Aesthetic Surgery
⦿ American Society for Mohs Surgery
⦿ American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery
⦿ American Academy of Dermatology
⦿ American Society for Dermatologic Surgery
Membership in these organizations helps demonstrate her performance, experience, and commitment to providing the highest quality care to her patients. And her patients agree: In fact, the people of Charleston have voted her the Best Dermatologist every year since 2005 (an award from the Charleston City Paper).
Marguerite Germain, M.D. has authored and published many research and scientific papers, which can be found in major dermatology journals. She has become a national and international educator for Lasers, injectable fillers, and BOTOX® Cosmetic. She is also a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon
Board-certified Dermatologist Emily Kmetz, M.D. is a South Carolina native. She graduated cum laude from the University of South Carolina with a B.S. in Chemistry.
After completing her undergraduate studies, she went on to the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) to receive her medical degree. During her time at MUSC, she was elected into the Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society; and completed her dermatology residency at the Medical University of South Carolina.
After residency, Emily Kmetz, M.D. took on a role within the MUSC Department of Dermatology, where she was a clinical assistant professor and a practicing physician for more than nine years. During her time there, she was voted Best Dermatologist in Summerville by readers of the Summerville Journal Scene for five years.
She was interested in pursuing dermatology because of its overlap of areas in medicine including infectious disease, rheumatology, oncology, and surgery. She is a member of the American Medical Association, the South Carolina Medical Association, and the American Academy of Dermatology. Her published work includes, “Papular facial eruption in an African American adolescent”, “Incontinentia Pigmenti with a Foreshortened Hand: Evidence for the Significance of NFkappaB in Human Morphogenesis” and more.
She lives in Dorchester County with her husband and two children.
Bruce Barach, M.D. has joined Germain Dermatology as our newest physician.
Bruce Barach, M.D. completed his residency training in plastic surgery in San Francisco before returning to his home state of New York. He graduated at the top of his class at S.U.N.Y Health Science Center at Syracuse and did his undergraduate work at Dartmouth College in Hanover, New Hampshire.
Bruce Barach, M.D. is a past president of the New York State Society of Plastic Surgery and is an active member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery.
He sees patients at our Pawleys Island location, offering blepharoplasties and injectables, as well as medical dermatological services, including full skin exams and excisions.
He also offers consultations and blepharoplasties at our Mt. Pleasant location.
Taylor Mulkey, M.D. received her B.S in Neuroscience from Vanderbilt University. Taylor Mulkey, M.D. then continued her education at the University of Louisville School of Medicine where she graduated Summa Cum Laude. Taylor Mulkey, M.D. completed her dermatology residency at the Medical University of South Carolina. She has over ten years of clinical experience based out of Louisville, KY and Nashville, TN. Taylor Mulkey, M.D. is a certified Mohs Surgeon. She most recently relocated to Charleston to join Germain Dermatology. She specializes in Mohs Micrographic surgery, general dermatology, and cosmetics. Taylor Mulkey, M.D. services all of Germain Dermatology’s locations.
Holly Carter, an upstate South Carolina native, is a physician assistant with more than 10 years of clinical experience at Germain Dermatology. Holly Carter graduated from the University of South Carolina with a BS in biology. During her four years at the University of South Carolina, she spent her free time volunteering at medical clinics in the area. Holly’s passion for medicine led her to pursue a career in the field at the Medical University of South Carolina, where she received her masters of science in physician assistant studies in 2005. Shortly after graduation, Holly Carter joined our practice and was personally trained in dermatology and dermatologic surgery by Marguerite Germain, M.D. prior to starting her own clinic.
Holly Carter is committed to providing excellent care to her patients in all aspects of dermatology. She treats various skin conditions, provides skin exams, and performs skin biopsies and surgeries. Holly Carter can also recommend a personal skin care routine and cosmetic options for interested patients. She thinks patient education is an important aspect of dermatology and takes the time to ensure her patients understand their treatment options and plans. Holly Carter expands her knowledge and stays up to date on treatments of dermatology through self-study, specialized training, and conferences. Holly Carter also lectures to other local health care providers in hopes of increasing awareness of skin cancer, common dermatology conditions, and sun protection.
Holly Carter is an active member of her community, and her current professional memberships include:
American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA), South Carolina Dermatological Association (SCDA), South Carolina Academy of Physician Assistants (SCAPA), and South Carolina Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants (SCSDPA). In addition to membership, Holly Carter served as the student liaison for the SCSDPA for three consecutive years and is currently serving as membership and communications for the second year.
Holly Carter resides in Mount Pleasant with her husband Dan and their two children, Anabelle and Brooks. Holly Carter enjoys running, fine cuisine, photography, and her Boykin spaniel Gracie. She also enjoys spending time with her family and friends.
Holly Carter is available to see patients Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. .Marguerite
Louisa Floyd is a physician assistant committed to providing the highest quality professional skin care in a comfortable, friendly, and compassionate environment. She believes that dermatology is a unique area of medicine because it not only affects physical health, but it can also significantly impact someone’s mental health, their self-esteem and social interactions. She diagnoses and treats various skin conditions such as skin cancers, psoriasis, eczema, acne, rosacea, warts, etc.; performs her own surgeries; and does yearly full skin exams. She believes in educating patients on the various management and treatment options available so that together they can create a customized treatment plan that best suits the patient’s specific needs.
Louisa Floyd received her undergraduate degree from Clemson University in 2007 with a bachelor of science in psychology. After college, she moved abroad to London where she lived for six months. During her time away, she visited 13 countries, studied various cultures, befriended people from all over the world, and created many lifelong memories.
She then returned home to Charleston and began working at Germain Dermatology as a medical assistant. After two years of working with Marguerite Germain, M.D. Louisa Floyd enrolled in the Medical University of South Carolina’s Physician Assistant Program and graduated with a master of science in physician assistant studies in 2012. While in school, she again personally trained with Marguerite Germain, M.D. during her clinical rotations, participated in a medical mission to South Africa, and volunteered regularly at a free medical clinic for the underserved in Charleston.
“After receiving her undergraduate degree in biology from the College of Charleston, Lainey O’Donnell joined the Germain Dermatology family as a medical assistant, where she worked for three years prior to enrolling in PA School at South College in Knoxville, TN.
While in school, her interests in dermatology continued to grow and she volunteered at various health fairs, educating both children and adults on the importance of sun protection.
Originally from Mount Pleasant, SC, Lainey O’Donnell returned home from PA school to train with Marguerite Germain, M.D. for her elective rotation, and immediately knew where she wanted her next journey to begin. Lainey O’Donnell is looking forward to helping patients feel confident and healthy in their own skin through medical practices, treatments, and education.
When not treating patients at Germain Dermatology, Lainey O’Donnell enjoys discovering Charleston, spending time with family and friends, and taking her dogs out to the beach (with lots of zinc and sun-protective gear, of course!) “
Katelyn Stalbird is our wonderful certified physicians assistant out at our Pawleys Island location.
After receiving her undergraduate degree in nutrition and dietetics at Clemson University, Katelyn Stalbird joined the Germain Dermatology family, where she worked her way up from the front desk and eventually became a medical and Mohs surgical assistant. She worked with Marguerite Germain, M.D. for 2.5 years prior to enrolling in PA school at Gardner-Webb University in Boiling Springs, NC.
Katelyn Stalbird continued education through her membership in the Society of Dermatologic PAS and is also an active member of the South Carolina Academy of Physician Assistants (SCAPA) and the American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA).
When not treating patients, Katelyn Stalbird enjoys spending time with family and friends, boating, and fishing (with plenty of sun-protection, of course!)
She understands the difficulty of missing school and work and therefore offers a Saturday clinic, as well as early morning appointments starting at 7am.
Lauren Crouse is a certified physician assistant practicing at our Johns Island location. She graduated Summa Cum Laude from the University of South Carolina with a B.S. in Exercise Science and minor in Psychology. After her undergraduate studies, Lauren remained in South Carolina and worked as one of Dr. Germain’s medical assistants prior to returning home to the Pennsylvania/Delaware area for PA school.
During her physician assistant education at Arcadia University, she served on the class board for the Student Academy of the American Academy of Physician Assistants (SAAAPA). Lauren has organized and participated in several fundraisers for various charities. She looks for opportunities to get involved in and give back to the community.
Upon graduation from PA school, Lauren was inducted into the Pi Alpha Honors Society, and Certified as a Physician Assistant through the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. Lauren Crouse continues her professional career as a member of American Academy of Physician Assistants, Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants, and South Carolina Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants.
Lauren has earned the NCCPA Certificate of Added Qualifications (CAQ) in Dermatology, demonstrating advanced expertise and commitment to excellence in the field.
Ammon Waddell is a certified Physician Assistant with many years practicing dermatology, urgent care and pain management. Ammon started practicing dermatology in Decatur, Illinois, and then moved on to work in urgent care and pain management in Salt Lake City, Utah. Ammon provides dermatological services at Germain Dermatology for the entire family. He delivers exceptional care and compassion to all patients as a Physician Assistant of the Practice.
He is a member of the Army National Guard, practicing aviation medicine. He graduated from the Interservice Physician Assistant Program (IPAP) after doing his clinical rotations at Fort Stewart, Georgia and has longed to return to this part of our great country. He loves living in the Southeast and the culture here that values hard work and community. Ammon’s purpose is to help people maintain a healthy, satisfying, long life. He loves spending time with his family, exploring the beauty that surrounds us.
Tanette Knox is a certified Physician Assistant who received her undergraduate degree from California State University Long Beach in psychology, her master’s in physician assistant studies from Medical University of South Carolina, and ultimately her doctorate in medical science from Butler University. Her professional memberships include the American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA), the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants (SDPA), and South Carolina Academy of Physician Assistants (SCAPA).
Tanette has experience as an aesthetician and worked in plastic surgery and dermatology while pursuing her goal as a physician assistant. She also worked as a surgical PA in a six-month dermatology fellowship while completing her doctorate.
Tanette was born and raised in California and now lives in the Pawleys Island area with her husband, four children and many pets. Outside of work, Tanette loves to travel and spend time with family and friends. With her kind, caring and excellent skillset, Tanette will provide excellent dermatological care for the entire family in the Pawley’s Island location.
Valarie Lenzer is a board-certified Physician Assistant who will be practicing at our Johns Island location. She is a Maryland native and received her Master’s degree from the University of Florida School of Physician Assistant Studies. Upon graduation, she was inducted into the Pi Alpha Physician Assistant National Honors Society. She is an active member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants and the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants. Prior to PA school, she received her B.S in Biological Sciences from Clemson University where she graduated Magna Cum Laude from the Honors College. Go Tigers!
Professionally, Valarie enjoys all aspects of Dermatology. She truly values creating lasting relationships with her patients and helping them feel like the best version of themselves! She also has a passion for skincare and is excited to help you with all of your dermatology concerns!
In her free time, Valarie enjoys spending time with her Fiancé, Sam, and her mini dachshund, Luna. She also loves traveling, exercising, and exploring the Charleston food scene.
Ally Knight is originally from Walterboro but has lived on James Island for the past 3 years with her husband and her dog, Sadie. Ally graduated from the University of South Carolina in 2020 with a BS in Exercise Science, and shortly after graduation, she began working at Germain Dermatology as a Medical Assistant with Dr. Germain.
After 2 years working as an MA, Ally decided to pursue her career as a Physician Assistant, here in the Lowcountry. She graduated from MUSC with her Masters of Science in Physician Assistant Studies in August of 2024. While attending MUSC, Ally served as a Student Representative for the South Carolina Society of Dermatology PAs (SCSDPA), and completed 2 separate rotations in Dermatology.
Ally always knew she wanted to have a career in the medical field, fell in love with Dermatology in high school, and her interest in Dermatology & Aesthetics was solidified after working alongside Dr. Germain.
Outside of work, Ally loves to exercise, be with family and friends, and spend time on the water (with appropriate SPF of course).
Ally is so excited to begin her career in her dream field, currently holds professional memberships with the AAPA and SDPA, and is looking forward to meeting new patients at our Summerville location and providing a great care experience!
Lauren is a Charleston native and has spent the last 40-plus years in beautiful Mount Pleasant, SC. She is head of the cosmetic department at Germain Dermatology and has dedicated her life to the study of aesthetics. For the past two decades she has obtained a wealth of experience and knowledge of laser and aesthetic treatments. She is a certified laser technician/specialist, and continues to advance in her field, bringing the most cutting edge technology to Germain Dermatology. To fulfill her love of learning, she often attends conferences and continues her education. She strives to discover the most innovative ways to help her patients achieve their personal best.
“I love dermatology because I can give natural results that make you look younger, healthier, and not overdone. It is rewarding for patients to see results with their own eyes and to help them look and feel their best,” Lauren said.
Aside from her professional life at Germain Dermatology, Lauren enjoys time with her two children and husband. Being a Charlestonian at heart, she loves fishing, hiking, and traveling.
Lauren is a member of the American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery.
Brooke Vaughn is a certified laser technician and phlebotomist at Germain Dermatology. She has over a decade of experience in the medical field, including five years’ operating lasers. Brooke graduated from College of Coastal Georgia with an Associate of Science Degree and continued her education at Georgia Military College, focused on Anatomy and Physiology.
Brooke enjoys attending user summits and continuing education courses pertaining to lasers. She brings advanced knowledge to various skin care therapies including, but not limited to: Ultherapy, MicroRF/Microneedling, BBL, Halo, Clear and Brilliant, Moxi, Halo and V-Beam.
“My goal is to help you gain confidence by discovering the potential of your own skin”. Outside of work Brooke enjoys fishing and cooking. She has two fur-babies and frequently travels back to Georgia to be with her family and friends.
Mel Pastorius has been with the Germain Dermatology family since 2016, seeing patients at both our Mt. Pleasant and Summerville offices. She is now exclusively located at our Johns Island location.
Mel is originally from Tennessee and graduated from Middle Tennesse State University with her B.S. in Marketing. Mel decided to pursue her dream of working in skin care and joined the Germain Dermatology team as a certified Laser Technician and Coolsculpting Specialist. She is also extensively trained in treatments such as Microneedling, Diamond Glows, Clear + Brilliant, BBL Hero and Halo by Sciton plus many more! Mel frequently attends continuing education courses and conferences to keep up to date with the latest technologies so she can further continue to deliver the best results to her patients and help them achieve their goals.
“I want you to feel and look like the best version of you. I love observing people’s self-confidence improve from treatment to treatment; there is nothing more rewarding than seeing a patient’s inner (and outer!) glow being reached.”
Outside of work, Mel adores spending time with her husband and two boys. She is an avid concert lover and enjoys traveling around the U.S. with her family to explore new places.
Jessica grew up in a military family and had the opportunity to live in multiple states throughout her life. In 2015 she decided to move to back to South Carolina where her family is from. She then decided to follow her dreams of working in the aesthetics industry and graduated from Southeastern Esthetics Institute in 2017. She has been practicing in the Charleston area since. Jessica is a Licensed Medical Aesthetician and is trained in Microneedling, Diamond Glow, HydraFacial, Lasers, Ultherapy, and Coolscuplting. “I have always had a passion for skin, and it is so rewarding to see people regain their confidence. Working in dermatology gives me the opportunity to help you look and feel your best.”
Outside of work, Jessica is a wife, stepmom, and dog mom. She enjoys boating, traveling, and cooking with her husband and family.
Chloe grew up in the Outer Banks area of North Carolina and moved to Charleston with her family in 2012. In 2020 Chloe became a licensed esthetician – trained in facial treatments such as HydraFacials, Diamond Glows, Microneedling, and chemical peels as well as body contouring services such as Coolsculpting and emsculpt.
“I love helping everyone look and feel their absolute best! Everyone deserves to be comfortable in their own skin, and it is my goal to create a warm and welcoming environment for all my patients to become the best version of themselves!”
When she is not at work Chloe enjoys antiquing, yoga, and hanging out with her cats!
