About
Dr. Alaina James, MD, PhD grew up in Beaver Falls, PA, where her family and community nurtured her early passion for science and medicine. She earned her BS in Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry from Yale University. She then completed her MD and PhD in Cell Biology at Baylor College of Medicine. Her dermatology residency training took place at the University of Pennsylvania, where she went on to practice as a medical dermatologist for over 15 years alongside her role at UPMC.
Dr. James holds board certification in dermatology and brings particular depth to complex medical dermatology, rashes, skin infections, and conditions affecting hair and nails. She treats both benign and cancerous skin lesions and performs a full range of dermatological procedures. Beyond clinical medicine, she earned a 200-hour Guided Meditation Certificate and a 200-hour Yoga Instructor RYT® 200 credential from Kripalu, and she completed Benedictine Life Coaching of Pittsburgh Training. She integrates her understanding of stress, trauma, and mental wellbeing into every patient care plan. Outside the practice, she enjoys nature jogs, yoga, travel, vegetarian cooking, and time with family and friends.
Education & Training
Undergraduate
Yale University, BS, Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry
Medical School
Baylor College of Medicine, MD, PhD Cell Biology
Residency
Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania
Additional Training
Morristown Memorial Hospital, Medical Internship; Kripalu 200hr Guided Meditation Certificate; Kripalu 200hr Yoga Instructor RYT® 200; Benedictine Life Coaching of Pittsburgh Training
Certifications
Languages
English, Spanish (with interpreter)
Conditions Treated
Who is Dr. James right for?
Dr. James serves children and adults dealing with a wide range of skin, hair, and nail conditions. Patients managing chronic conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, lupus, or sarcoidosis benefit from her depth of clinical experience. She is a strong fit for anyone who wants their mental and emotional health factored into their skin care plan. Patients seeking skin cancer screening, biopsies, or excisions will find thorough procedural expertise. Spanish-speaking patients can schedule appointments with an interpreter.
Similar Doctors Nearby
Dr. Richard HoganMD
Internal Medicinehypertension, diabetes, osteoporosis +12 more
Dr. David MacIsaacDO
Family Medicinesinus infections, fevers, influenza +7 more
Dr. Sonia DhawanMD
Internal Medicinecardiovascular risk
Frequently Asked Questions
Dr. James treats a broad range of skin, hair, and nail conditions. These include acne, rosacea, eczema, psoriasis, sarcoidosis, lupus, rashes, skin lesions, moles, infections, skin cancer, and alopecia. She also evaluates and treats cysts, abscesses, and benign or cancerous skin growths.
Yes. Dr. James holds board certification in dermatology. She also earned an MD and PhD in Cell Biology from Baylor College of Medicine and completed her residency at the University of Pennsylvania.
Dr. James performs skin biopsies, cryotherapy, excisions, facials, extractions, and removal of benign and cancerous skin lesions. She also handles incision and drainage of abscesses and cysts. Procedure fees vary based on complexity and are listed on the practice fee schedule.
Dr. James takes a holistic approach to dermatology. She factors in stress, trauma, and mental and emotional health when developing a care plan. She takes time to listen carefully to each patient and welcomes them into a supportive, creative office environment.
Yes. Dr. James offers life and health coaching sessions in person or virtually. Sessions run 30, 45, or 60 minutes. She holds a Benedictine Life Coaching of Pittsburgh Training credential.
Yes. Dr. James holds a 200-hour Yoga Instructor RYT® 200 credential and a 200-hour Guided Meditation Certificate, both from Kripalu. She leads mindful movement and meditation classes at the practice that incorporate slow flow yoga, stretching, deep breathing, and relaxation.
Yes. Dr. James sees both children and adults. The practice offers pediatric, adult, and family dermatology. The office can help coordinate family appointments so multiple people receive care in a single visit.
Yes. Dr. James offers virtual appointments for medical dermatology and life and health coaching. Patients select their appointment type and duration when scheduling online.
Dr. James offers Spanish-language dermatology appointments with an interpreter. Patients who speak Spanish can contact the office to schedule.
Dr. James practiced as a medical dermatologist at the University of Pennsylvania and UPMC for over 15 years before establishing skin mind health in Ambridge, PA.
Doctor profile last updated August 17, 2026