April 28, 2000

MGH researcher Irvin Blank, PhD, died April 19 at the age of 98. In a research career that spanned more than 75 years, Blank made major contributions to the understanding of physical and chemical properties of the skin and helped to explain how many medications and cosmetics affect the skin.

In 1936, Blank came to Harvard Medical School (HMS) from the University of Cincinnati and worked as a research fellow until he joined the MGH Dermatology Service in 1938. After 32 years with HMS, he retired as a faculty member in 1968, but continued doing research with the MGH Wellman Laboratories of Photomedicine and the Dermatology Clinical Investigations Unit.

Deemed the "father of moisturizers" when he received an award from the Society of Cosmetic Chemists in 1959, Blank made significant contributions to basic and clinical research in dermatology and helped build the scientific foundation for work in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries.

He continued his teaching and research activities at the MGH up until 1997 and remained active as a consultant and adviser to the MGH Dermatology Department and HMS until recently.

"Dr. Blank was an intelligent, disciplined, unselfish and thorough investigator who contributed greatly to dermatology in its early years," says John Parrish, MD, chief of Dermatology and a longtime colleague of Blank's. "In the 62 years he was at the MGH, he never lost his childlike curiosity, love of teaching and commitment to excellence."