The Skin Real ®

How to Fix Lip Lines | What Really Works and What Doesn’t

Lip lines. Barcode lines. Smoker’s lines.
They frustrate patients more than almost any other wrinkle because they can age the face fast and they are not simple to fix.
In this episode of The Skin Real, Dr. Mary Alice Mina breaks down why upper lip lines form, why they are harder to treat than frown lines, and why there is no single magic solution. She explains the role of the orbicularis oris muscle, repetitive motion, collagen loss, menopause, bone resorption, and sun damage in accelerating these vertical lines.
Dr. Mina walks through what actually works. A combination strategy that includes prevention, lifestyle changes, smart topical use, and in-office procedures tailored to your anatomy and stage of aging. She covers:
Why Botox must be used carefully around the mouth • When filler helps and when it makes things worse • Why a surgical lip lift may be more appropriate than more volume • The role of microneedling, RF microneedling, CO2 laser, and even phenol peels • How smoking, straws, and unconscious lip movements accelerate lines • Why sunscreen on the lips is harder than you think
If you are struggling with lip lines or want to prevent them before they etch in, this episode gives you a realistic, evidence-based roadmap.
There is no one and done fix. But there is a smarter plan.
 
In this episode: 
00:00 Why Lip Lines Age You Faster00:23 No Magic Fix. The Combination Approach01:06 Why Upper Lip Lines Form03:05 Why We Can’t Fully Paralyze This Muscle03:37 The Realistic Goal. Soften, Not Erase04:19 Why Women Notice This More After Menopause05:34 Why Filler Is Not Always the Answer06:14 Not a One and Done Fix07:13 Prevention Before Lines Etch In07:51 Lifestyle Habits That Make Lip Lines Worse10:59 Teeth, Bone Loss, and Structural Support11:50 Sun Damage and Lip Protection14:02 Topicals That Help. Retinoids and Moisturizers16:07 Red Light and At Home Devices17:12 In Office Treatments. Where to Start17:44 Botox and the Lip Flip Explained19:30 Filler. When It Helps and When It Backfires21:43 Laser, Microneedling, and Advanced Procedures24:30 Phenol Peels, Aggressive Resurfacing, and Expectations25:43 Final Takeaways
Want a deeper look? Watch the full episode on YouTube for a more visual experience of today’s discussion. This episode is best enjoyed on video—don’t miss out!
💗 The Radiant Reset at The Skin Real is a zero-downtime experience designed to support your skin with intention. Two days only! February 12 & 14! Book your reset: https://theskinreal.janeapp.com/#staff_member/1
 
Dr. Mina is a board-certified dermatologist on a mission to cut through the noise and help women feel amazing in their skin again. After decades in clinic, she has taken her expertise online to offer trusted, no-fluff education and skin strategies that actually work. No filters. No fear tactics. Just science, simplicity, and a little fun!
 
Follow Dr. Mina here:Instagram: https://instagram.com/drminaskinFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/drminaskinYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskinLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drminaskin/
Visit The Skin Real Serenbe:
Website: https://theskinrealserenbe.com/
Book your Meet and Greet here
Thanks for tuning in. And remember, real skin care is real simple when you know who to trust.
Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.
 

Low Testosterone in Women. SIGNS NOT TO MISS (Skin, Hair, Nails)

Testosterone is known as THE male hormone, yet women carry more of it than estrogen across their lifespan. In this episode, Dr. Mary Alice Mina breaks down why testosterone matters for women and how imbalances show up in skin, hair, and nails. You learn the visible signs of low and high testosterone, how aging differs from menopause-related hormone shifts, and why blood work alone misses the full picture. The episode also covers risks of pellet therapy, smarter prescribing approaches, and practical dermatology-first steps you can take while waiting for medical evaluation. This is a clear, evidence-based guide to hormone health you see in the mirror.
 
In This Episode:
0:00 Testosterone is not a male-only hormone
1:20 What hormones really do in the body
2:16 Testosterone vs estrogen after menopause
3:08 How testosterone affects skin oil and texture
3:56 Hair changes from high vs low testosterone
4:46 Nail growth and brittleness explained
5:24 Why testosterone declines with age
6:17 Medications and birth control effects
7:29 Low testosterone in midlife women
8:12 Hormone misinformation and online risks
8:36 Pellet therapy problems in women
9:48 Why symptoms matter more than lab numbers
10:54 Skin signs linked to low testosterone
12:30 When to see a doctor
14:11 What doctors evaluate and test
16:30 Treatment options and safety
16:51 What you can do right now for skin
17:54 Scalp and hair care strategies
18:32 Nail care and manicure mistakes
20:11 Nutrition sleep and stress support
21:02 Testosterone beyond libido
22:21 Final takeaways and viewer questions
Want a deeper look? Watch the full episode on YouTube for a more visual experience of today’s discussion. This episode is best enjoyed on video—don’t miss out!
💗 The Radiant Reset at The Skin Real is a zero-downtime experience designed to support your skin with intention. Two days only! February 12 & 14! Book your reset: https://theskinreal.janeapp.com/#staff_member/1
 
📲 Download The Skin Real app for science backed routines, dermatologist guidance, and product recommendations you can trust. https://linktr.ee/theskinreal
 
Dr. Mina is a board-certified dermatologist on a mission to cut through the noise and help women feel amazing in their skin again. After decades in clinic, she has taken her expertise online to offer trusted, no-fluff education and skin strategies that actually work. No filters. No fear tactics. Just science, simplicity, and a little fun!
 
Follow Dr. Mina here:Instagram: https://instagram.com/drminaskinFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/drminaskinYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskinLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drminaskin/
Visit The Skin Real Serenbe:
Website: https://theskinrealserenbe.com/
Book your Meet and Greet here
Thanks for tuning in. And remember, real skin care is real simple when you know who to trust.
Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.

This Is Exactly Where I Get My Injections and Why | Botox & Filler Placement

Injectables can feel intimidating for many people. This episode of The Skin Real removes the fear. Dr. Mary Alice Mina walks you through the exact injectables she uses on her own face and why. You hear how her approach shifted in midlife and perimenopause. You learn how she thinks about balance, harmony, and long term skin health. She explains toxins, fillers, and biostimulants in plain language. She also shares where subtle treatments matter most as you age. This episode focuses on natural results, realistic expectations, and choosing the right injector for a long term plan.
In This Episode:
00:00 Why injectables feel scary and who this episode is for
01:42 My philosophy on natural results and facial harmony
04:05 Types of injectables. Toxins, fillers, biostimulants
07:20 How I assess a face before treating
10:05 Why arm’s length viewing matters more than magnifying mirrors
12:10 Botox basics and when timing matters
15:05 Upper face versus lower face priorities in midlife
18:10 Where I personally place Botox and why
22:00 Filler fears and why less works better
25:10 Lip filler, temples, and high risk areas to respect
28:10 Sculptra and collagen banking for the long game
31:10 How to choose the right injector and avoid regret
33:07 Final thoughts and viewer questions
Want a deeper look? Watch the full episode on YouTube for a more visual experience of today’s discussion. https://youtu.be/EPIs-X5djRM
💗 The Radiant Reset at The Skin Real is a zero-downtime experience designed to support your skin with intention. Two days only! February 12 & 14! Book your reset: https://theskinreal.janeapp.com/#staff_member/1
 
📲 Download The Skin Real app for science backed routines, dermatologist guidance, and product recommendations you can trust. https://linktr.ee/theskinreal
 
Dr. Mina is a board-certified dermatologist on a mission to cut through the noise and help women feel amazing in their skin again. After decades in clinic, she has taken her expertise online to offer trusted, no-fluff education and skin strategies that actually work. No filters. No fear tactics. Just science, simplicity, and a little fun!
Connect with me here:Instagram: https://instagram.com/drminaskinFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/drminaskinYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskinLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drminaskin/
Visit The Skin Real Serenbe:
Website: https://theskinrealserenbe.com/
Book your Meet and Greet here
Thanks for tuning in. And remember, real skin care is real simple when you know who to trust.
Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.
 

Female Hair Loss Explained. Why You Are Shedding and What Works

📲 Download The Skin Real app for science backed routines, dermatologist guidance, and product recommendations you can trust. https://linktr.ee/theskinreal
Hair loss in women feels frightening and personal. You see it in the shower. On your pillow. In the mirror. In this episode of The Skin Real, Dr. Mary Alice Mina explains why female hair loss happens and what truly helps.
You learn how dermatologists classify hair loss. Scarring versus non scarring. Shedding versus thinning. You hear why menopause, stress, weight loss, medications, nutrition, and styling habits all matter. Dr. Mina walks through evidence-based treatments. Topical and oral minoxidil. Hormonal therapies. Scalp health. PRP. Red light therapy. Supplements worth your money and supplements to skip.
This episode gives you a framework. What to worry about. What to treat early. What patience looks like with hair regrowth.
In this episode:
00:00 Why hair loss in women feels alarming01:15 Female hair loss versus male pattern hair loss02:35 Hair and identity in midlife03:55 Dr. Mina’s personal hair loss experience05:10 How dermatologists classify hair loss06:25 Scarring alopecia and why early action matters07:40 Non scarring hair loss and shedding patterns08:55 Telogen effluvium and delayed stress responses10:20 Female pattern hair loss explained11:45 Menopause, estrogen, and hair thinning13:05 Nutrition, iron, and vitamin deficiencies14:25 Thyroid disease and medical causes15:40 Styling habits and traction alopecia16:55 Autoimmune related hair loss18:05 Why scalp health is critical19:05 How hair loss is evaluated in clinic20:05 Blood work and baseline labs21:10 Minoxidil. Topical versus oral22:35 Dread shed and why it happens23:40 Hormonal medications and postmenopause24:40 Scalp treatments and medicated shampoos25:35 Advanced topicals and exosome serums26:45 PRP and red light therapy27:55 Hair supplements. What helps and what to avoid28:55 Final advice. Patience and early treatment
Want a deeper look? Watch the full episode on YouTube for a more visual experience of today’s discussion. This episode is best enjoyed on video—don’t miss out!
Dr. Mina is a board-certified dermatologist on a mission to cut through the noise and help women feel amazing in their skin again. After decades in clinic, she has taken her expertise online to offer trusted, no-fluff education and skin strategies that actually work. No filters. No fear tactics. Just science, simplicity, and a little fun!
 
Follow Dr. Mina here:Instagram: https://instagram.com/drminaskinFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/drminaskinYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskinLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drminaskin/
Visit The Skin Real Serenbe:
Website: https://theskinrealserenbe.com/
Book your Meet and Greet here
Thanks for tuning in. And remember, real skin care is real simple when you know who to trust.
Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.
 

The 2026 Retinoid Playbook: Acne, Aging, and How to Avoid Irritation

Retinoids confuse a lot of people. This episode removes the guesswork. Dr. Mary Alice Mina breaks down every form of retinoid in clear terms. You learn the difference between retinol, retinaldehyde, Adapalene, Tretinoin, Tazarotene, and oral isotretinoin. She explains who should start slow, who should go straight to prescription strength, and why skin type matters more than age. The episode walks through acne treatment, pigment control, collagen support, and long term skin health. You also get exact instructions for nighttime use, dosing, frequency, product layering, and how to prevent irritation, flaking, and purging. This is a step by step guide built on dermatology science, not trends.
In this episode: 
0:00 Why retinoids confuse so many people0:45 Why dermatologists rely on retinoids1:35 What retinoids are and how they work in skin2:20 Retinol vs retinal vs prescription retinoids3:35 Dr. Mina’s personal retinoid experience5:10 When results actually start showing6:15 How retinoids treat acne at the root7:30 Retinoids for hyperpigmentation and scars8:20 Choosing a retinoid based on your skin type9:30 Over the counter vs prescription strength10:40 Anti aging and collagen benefits explained11:45 How to apply retinoids correctly at night13:15 The pea sized rule and layering order14:35 How often to use retinoids and seasonal changes15:40 Using retinoids on the neck and under eyes16:55 The sandwich method for irritation17:55 How to avoid purging and flaking19:05 Beginner nighttime routine20:15 Advanced retinoid routine21:10 Morning routine and sunscreen rules22:00 Long term consistency and skin longevity23:10 Final tips 
Want a deeper look? Watch the full episode on YouTube for a more visual experience of today’s discussion. This episode is best enjoyed on video—don’t miss out!
Dr. Mina is a board-certified dermatologist on a mission to cut through the noise and help women feel amazing in their skin again. After decades in clinic, she has taken her expertise online to offer trusted, no-fluff education and skin strategies that actually work. No filters. No fear tactics. Just science, simplicity, and a little fun!
 
Follow Dr. Mina here:Instagram: https://instagram.com/drminaskinFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/drminaskinYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskinLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drminaskin/
Visit The Skin Real Serenbe: https://theskinrealserenbe.com/
Book your Meet and Greet here
Thanks for tuning in. And remember, real skin care is real simple when you know who to trust.
Download The Skin Real app for science backed routines, dermatologist guidance, and product recommendations you can trust.
Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-skin-real/id6748411628Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=vyten.theskinreal&hl=en_US
Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.
 

Sagging Jowls Explained. What Works and What Fails

Sagging jowls tend to sneak up on you. One day your jawline feels sharp and familiar. Then slowly, definition softens and the lower face starts to feel heavier. 
In this episode, Dr. Mina breaks down what is really happening when jowls form. She explains how bone changes, fat pad movement, muscle pull, collagen loss, genetics, and how daily habits can shape the lower face over time. She walks through what supports skin health at home, what looks promising but falls short, and which in office treatments deliver meaningful improvement when used strategically.
You will learn how Biostimulants, lasers, tightening devices, Neuromodulators, and fillers fit into a realistic plan. Dr. Mina also explains why placement matters, why no single treatment works alone, and when surgery becomes the most definitive option. If you are in midlife and trying to make sense of your jawline changes without wasting money or chasing hype, this episode gives you clear guidance and grounded expectations.
 
In This Episode:
0:00 Why jowls frustrate everyone
1:10 What jowls really are
3:00 Bone loss and facial structure changes
5:10 Fat pads, skin quality, and muscle pull
7:40 Habits and lifestyle that worsen jowls
9:30 At home care. What helps and what does not
12:00 In office treatments that improve jowls
15:20 Injectables, devices, and common mistakes
17:40 When surgery becomes the definitive option
18:55 Final expectations and long term strategy
 
Want a deeper look? Watch the full episode on YouTube for a more visual experience of today’s discussion. This episode is best enjoyed on video—don’t miss out!
 
Dr. Mina is a board-certified dermatologist on a mission to cut through the noise and help women feel amazing in their skin again. After decades in clinic, she has taken her expertise online to offer trusted, no-fluff education and skin strategies that actually work. No filters. No fear tactics. Just science, simplicity, and a little fun!
 
Follow Dr. Mina here:Instagram: https://instagram.com/drminaskinFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/drminaskinYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskinLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drminaskin/
Visit The Skin Real Serenbe: https://theskinrealserenbe.com
Book your Meet and Greet here
Thanks for tuning in. And remember, real skin care is real simple when you know who to trust.
Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.

How Your Gut Health Shapes Your Skin and Hormones

There comes a point when you start to notice patterns. Your skin flares after certain meals, bloating lingers through the week, and your body feels a little more reactive than it used to. Especially in midlife, it is easy to wonder: Is it hormones, stress, aging, or something deeper happening in the gut?
Dr. Mina sits down with Dr. Pia Prakash, a board-certified gastroenterologist and passionate educator on gut health. Together, they unpack the science behind the gut microbiome, inflammation, leaky gut, SIBO, diet patterns, perimenopause, and why conditions like acne, rosacea, psoriasis, and hidradenitis often flare alongside digestive symptoms.
You will learn what truly supports gut health (hint: not a cleanse), how antibiotics and alcohol factor in, and why midlife can bring new skin and GI changes.
If you are navigating acne in adulthood, rosacea, psoriasis, bloating, perimenopause changes, or you simply want to care for your skin from the inside out, this conversation will leave you feeling informed, grounded, and supported. Share it with a friend who needs the reassurance that she is not alone.
Follow Dr. Pia here:
https://www.instagram.com/gastrogalmd/
https://www.youtube.com/@gastrogalmd
https://www.facebook.com/p/Gastrogalmd-61578874299695/
Follow Dr. Mina here:Instagram: https://instagram.com/drminaskinFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/drminaskinYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskinLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drminaskin/
Visit The Skin Real Serenbe:
Website: https://theskinrealserenbe.com/
Book your Meet and Greet here
Watch the Full Episode on YouTube
Thanks for tuning in. And remember, real skin care is real simple when you know who to trust.
Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.

Mammograms Explained. Myths, Safety, And Early Detection

If you’ve ever delayed scheduling your mammogram because of fear, discomfort, or sheer overwhelm, you’re not alone. Many midlife women quietly carry anxiety about breast health, balancing busy lives while putting their own care on the back burner. 
In this episode of The Skin Real, Dr. Mary Alice Mina sits down with Dr. Anjali Malik, a breast imaging and interventional radiologist and passionate advocate for women’s health. Together, they break down what mammograms actually involve, why annual screening starting at age 40 matters, and how misinformation has unnecessarily scared women away from a life-saving test. This conversation walks you through what to expect before, during, and after a mammogram, explains dense breast tissue in plain language, and reframes screening as an empowering tool rather than something to fear.
Key Takeaways:✓ Annual mammograms starting at age 40 reduce breast cancer mortality by about 40 percent when cancers are caught early✓ Most mammogram call-backs are not cancer; out of 1,000 women screened, only about five will have cancer✓ Dense breast tissue is common and not “bad,” but it can affect both cancer risk and imaging clarity✓ 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) improves cancer detection and lowers unnecessary call-backs✓ Early detection often means smaller surgeries, fewer aggressive treatments, and better cosmetic outcomes✓ Monthly breast self-awareness helps you notice changes early, especially between screenings
Listen in, share it with a friend you love, and take that next step for yourself.
Follow Dr. Anjali here:
https://www.instagram.com/anjalimalikmd/?hl=en
https://www.anjalimalikmd.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/anjali-malik-91a34391/
Follow Dr. Mina here:Instagram: https://instagram.com/drminaskinFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/drminaskinYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskinLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drminaskin/
Visit The Skin Real Serenbe:
Website: https://theskinrealserenbe.com/
Book your Meet and Greet here
Watch the Full Episode on YouTube
Thanks for tuning in. And remember, real skin care is real simple when you know who to trust.
Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.

Pregnancy-Safe Skincare: What to Use, What to Avoid, and How to Care for Your Skin

Shop your personalized skincare here.
If your skin suddenly feels unpredictable during pregnancy, it is not your imagination and it is not your fault. Hormones shift rapidly, collagen stretches, pigment deepens, and routines that once worked may no longer feel effective.
In this episode, Dr. Mina sits down with integrative dermatologist Dr. Mamina Turegano for an honest, evidence-based conversation on skincare during pregnancy. Together, they break down the most common concerns dermatologists see at this stage, from acne and hyperpigmentation to melasma, stretch marks, and sunscreen safety.
They clarify which ingredients are best avoided, which can be used safely when appropriate, and why simple foundations like sun protection, hydration, and gut health often matter more than an overloaded routine. They also cover postpartum skincare and what can be thoughtfully reintroduced while breastfeeding, helping listeners move forward with clarity, confidence, and a lot less anxiety around doing something wrong.
Key Takeaways:
✓ Pregnancy acne and melasma are hormonally driven and incredibly common✓ Azelaic acid, niacinamide, and gentle exfoliation can support skin safely✓ Retinoids and hydroquinone are avoided due to absorption concerns✓ Sunscreen is safe during pregnancy and critical for pigment prevention✓ Stretch marks reflect structural skin changes and genetics, not skincare failure✓ Postpartum skin care offers more flexibility, including the return of retinoids
If you are pregnant, postpartum, or planning ahead and want science-backed answers without judgment, this episode will leave you feeling informed, supported, and far more confident in your skin.
Mamina Turegano, MD, is a triple board-certified dermatologist, internist, and dermatopathologist practicing in the greater New Orleans area, with expertise in both medical and cosmetic dermatology. She also holds a certificate in integrative dermatology, blending traditional medicine with holistic approaches to skin health and longevity. With 16 years of dermatology experience and 11 years in private practice, Dr. Turegano is committed to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care.
Follow Dr. Mamina here:
www.drmamina.com
https://www.instagram.com/dr.mamina/?hl=en
https://www.facebook.com/drmamina/
https://www.youtube.com/@dr.mamina
Follow Dr. Mina here:Instagram: https://instagram.com/drminaskinFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/drminaskinYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskinLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drminaskin/
Visit The Skin Real Serenbe:
Website: https://theskinrealserenbe.com/
Book your Meet and Greet here
Watch the Full Episode on YouTube
Thanks for tuning in. And remember, real skin care is real simple when you know who to trust.
Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.

Liposuction in Midlife: What Really Works for Body Contouring and Confidence

In this week's episode, Dr. Mary Alice Mina welcomes Dr. Kandace Kichler to talk about what liposuction actually is today. Together they explore why this procedure, once considered aggressive and intimidating, has become a favorite for targeted contouring, especially in midlife.
From safety and anesthesia to expectations and recovery, they lay out what’s possible with awake liposuction, and why it can help women feel more comfortable and more confident in their clothes and their skin.
Key Takeaways:
Liposuction is for contouring, not weight loss.
Awake procedures are safe and surprisingly comfortable.
Liposuction cannot fix visceral fat (the deep fat behind the muscle), nor can it replace surgery when excess skin is the issue.
Recovery is easier than most people imagine.
You get a “preview” in the first weeks, but final results take months.
If you’ve ever wondered whether liposuction is only for celebrities or feared it meant pain, anesthesia, and weeks away from real life, this episode is for you.
Dr. Kandace Kichler (Kick-ler) is a double board-certified cosmetic surgeon and aesthetic injector based in sunny South Florida, between Palm Beach and Miami. With advanced fellowship training in both bariatric and cosmetic surgery, she now focuses on aesthetics—combining surgical precision with a passion for beauty and body contouring. She is also board certified in obesity medicine, giving her a unique ability to guide patients in both wellness and aesthetics. Known as The Slimming Surgeon on social media, she also hosts The Slimming Surgeon Podcast, where she shares insights on cosmetic procedures, style, and empowerment.
 
Follow Dr. Kichler here:
https://kandacekichlermd.com/
https://www.instagram.com/slimmingsurgeon/
 
Follow Dr. Mina here:Instagram: https://instagram.com/drminaskinFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/drminaskinYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskinLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drminaskin/
Visit The Skin Real Serenbe:
Website: https://theskinrealserenbe.com/
Book your Meet and Greet here
Watch the Full Episode on YouTube
Thanks for tuning in. And remember, real skin care is real simple when you know who to trust.
Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.