The Skin Real ®

🔗 Scan your skin for free with my Skin Analysis app: https://realskin.theskinreal.com
Filler has had its moment, and for years the look was to go bigger: fuller lips, bigger cheeks, an almost caricature version of the face. Dr. Mary Alice Mina breaks down why the pendulum is swinging back toward natural results and what that means for anyone rethinking their filler. She walks through what hyaluronic acid filler actually is, how it compares to older options like silicone and collagen, and the three main reasons patients ask to have their filler dissolved, including the rare but serious vascular emergencies that make this a medical procedure, not just a cosmetic one. She also tackles the popular claim that filler migrates to other parts of the body and explains what MRI imaging actually shows. From how hyaluronidase works to dissolve HA filler, to what recovery looks like, to why less is more when it comes to injectables, this episode is a clear-eyed guide for anyone with filler regret or anyone simply trying to separate fact from social media fear.
In this episode: 
0:00 – Filler Doesn't Migrate0:18 – Welcome to The Skin Real1:26 – Today's Topic: The Filler Pendulum Swing3:25 – Other Types of Filler: Silicone, Collagen, and Fat4:43 – Three Reasons People Dissolve Their Filler5:53 – The Vascular Emergency Risk6:54 – Debunking Filler Migration9:37 – How Hyaluronidase Dissolves Filler12:49 – Recovery After Dissolving Filler14:53 – Less Is More: Setting Realistic Expectations15:25 – GLPs, Weight Loss, and Facial Volume Loss17:02 – Final Thoughts and Where to Learn More
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!
 
📱Download The Skin Real app!
Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-skin-real/id6748411628
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=vyten.theskinreal&hl=en_US
 
🔔 Follow for weekly evidence-based skin advice from a dermatologist you can actually trust.
📩 Find a board-certified dermatologist near you: https://www.aad.org
🛍️ Shop Dr. Mina's recommended skincare on Aire Health: https://www.airehealth.com/skinstore/drminaskin
 
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.

Head lice might be one of the most stomach-turning phrases a parent can hear, but Dr. Mary Alice Mina wants everyone to take a breath before reaching for the clippers. In this episode of The Skin Real, she breaks down what head lice actually are, why they have nothing to do with hygiene, and how they really spread through close head-to-head contact rather than jumping from scalp to scalp. She walks through exactly how to check for lice and nits at home, the step-by-step protocol for using permethrin and pyrethrin shampoos correctly, including the treatment mistake most people make, what to do when over-the-counter options do not work, and how to properly clean bedding, brushes, and stuffed animals so lice do not come back. By the end, parents have a clear, judgment-free game plan for spotting, treating, and preventing head lice for good.
 
In this episode: 0:00 – Don't Panic: What To Do If You Find Lice0:29 – Welcome to The Skin Real1:12 – Quick Disclaimer1:39 – Today's Topic: Head Lice2:32 – A Very Relatable Lice Story3:15 – What Exactly Are Head Lice?3:55 – Lice vs. Nits vs. Dandruff: How To Tell The Difference4:46 – Do Lice Carry Diseases?5:22 – How Lice Actually Spread (It's Not About Hygiene)6:10 – Who Gets Head Lice Most Often6:52 – How To Check For Lice At Home8:27 – First-Line Treatment: OTC Shampoos9:03 – Permethrin 1% Shampoo Protocol10:45 – Pyrethrin + Piperonyl Butoxide Protocol11:43 – When First-Line Treatment Fails12:16 – Manual Nit Removal Method12:50 – Cleaning Your House, Bedding & Toys14:22 – Do You Need To Treat Everyone In The House?14:40 – How To Prevent Lice From Spreading15:02 – When To Call Your Dermatologist15:26 – You're Not Dirty: The Truth About Lice16:43 – Final Thoughts 
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!
📱Download The Skin Real app!
Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-skin-real/id6748411628
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=vyten.theskinreal&hl=en_US
 
🔔 Follow for weekly evidence-based skin advice from a dermatologist you can actually trust.
📩 Find a board-certified dermatologist near you: https://www.aad.org
🛍️ Shop Dr. Mina's recommended skincare on Aire Health: https://www.airehealth.com/skinstore/drminaskin
🔗 Scan your skin with my AI app: https://realskin.theskinreal.com
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.

In this episode of The Skin Real, Dr. Mary Alice Mina sits down with dermatologist and Skinfluence Podcast host Dr. Dustin Portela to break down the skincare trends flooding social media right now. From DIY sunscreen and beef tallow moisturizer to at-home chemical peels and tanmaxxing, they separate real dermatology from viral misinformation. The conversation covers red flags to watch for in skincare influencers, the science behind sunscreen safety, why skin cycling can work when done right, age-appropriate routines for kids and teens, and what medical grade skincare actually means. It is a practical, no-nonsense guide to protecting your skin from bad advice.
In this episode: 
0:00 Intro1:15 Meet Dr. Dustin Portela3:00 How to spot fake skincare advice online6:15 The truth about DIY sunscreen9:30 Beef tallow moisturizer breakdown13:00 At-home chemical peels and TCA risks16:45 Tan maxing and the return of tanning culture21:00 Melanotan and the anti-sunscreen movement25:30 Sunscreen myths and the seatbelt analogy28:45 Skin cycling explained31:15 Skincare for kids and teens34:00 Real skin vs filtered skin35:15 What medical grade skincare actually means36:45 Top three tips for cutting through the noise37:45 Where to find Dr. Portela
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!
📱Download The Skin Real app!
Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-skin-real/id6748411628
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=vyten.theskinreal&hl=en_US
 
🔔 Follow for weekly evidence-based skin advice from a dermatologist you can actually trust.
📩 Find a board-certified dermatologist near you: https://www.aad.org
🛍️ Shop Dr. Mina's recommended skincare on Aire Health: https://www.airehealth.com/skinstore/drminaskin
🔗 Scan your skin with my AI app: https://realskin.lovable.app
 
About the guest: 
Dr. Dustin Portela, is a board-certified dermatologist based in Boise, Idaho. An Idaho native, he earned his Honors Bachelor of Science in Zoology from Idaho State University and completed his medical degree at Des Moines University, graduating with recognition for Excellence in Physiology. Following medical school, Dr. Portela undertook his internship through Michigan State University at Oakwood Southshore Hospital and completed his dermatology residency at Beaumont Trenton Hospital, where he received the Excellence in Dermatologic Surgery Award. Dr. Portela's professional interests encompass holistic health, skin cancer prevention, complex medical dermatology, and wound healing.
Connect with Dr. Dustin Portela:
Websites: https://drdustinportela.com/ 
(Dēne skincare): https://shop.drdustinportela.com/?srsltid=AfmBOooiH1GWOmjtZlhi7SHBcSvlaEWwXIWclmQH5ajSwr_EcWt60Y3e 
Instagram: @drdustinportela 
FB: @drdustinportela 
TikTok: drdustinportela
Podcast: Skinfluence
 
About the host: 
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.

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common cancer on the planet, yet most people have never heard of it until they're sitting in a dermatologist's chair hearing the word cancer for the first time. In this episode, Dr. Mary Alice Mina walks through what these lesions actually look like, and it's rarely what people expect. Sometimes it's a pink, shiny bump that bleeds without warning. Other times it hides as a stubborn scar-like patch or a dry spot that gets mistaken for eczema for months.
She covers how a diagnosis actually comes together, from the dermatoscope exam to the different biopsy methods used to confirm what's going on before any treatment begins. From there, the conversation moves into the full range of treatment options, Mohs surgery, topical chemo creams, scraping and burning, laser, radiation, and oral medications, and how a lesion's location, size, and subtype decide which path makes sense. The episode wraps with what happens after treatment: the real odds of getting another basal cell down the road, and the everyday habits, from sunscreen to a supplement called nicotinamide, that can lower that risk.
In this episode: 
00:00 – The most common cancer nobody knows about00:27 – Welcome to The Skin Real01:11 – Disclaimer01:41 – What is basal cell carcinoma02:57 – What this episode covers04:02 – Not every basal cell needs surgery04:19 – What basal cell carcinoma looks like05:07 – The subtype that mimics eczema05:30 – When to get a spot checked06:22 – How you get basal cell carcinoma07:19 – Warning signs and the dermatoscope exam08:10 – Why a biopsy is always necessary08:47 – The three types of biopsies explained12:03 – The dangerous myth: it won't kill me14:29 – Do you need imaging or scans15:33 – How location, size, and subtype drive treatment15:49 – Mohs surgery explained17:38 – Topical chemo creams19:16 – Scrape and burn (EDNC)20:51 – Laser treatment22:16 – Why radiation is rarely used23:19 – Oral and systemic medications26:27 – Your risk of getting another one27:30 – Daily sun protection28:01 – Other prevention options and nicotinamide30:03 – Final thoughts: get it checked
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!
📱Download The Skin Real app!
Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-skin-real/id6748411628
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=vyten.theskinreal&hl=en_US
 
🔔 Follow for weekly evidence-based skin advice from a dermatologist you can actually trust.
📩 Find a board-certified dermatologist near you: https://www.aad.org
🛍️ Shop Dr. Mina's recommended skincare on Aire Health: https://www.airehealth.com/skinstore/drminaskin
🔗 Scan your skin with my AI app: https://realskin.lovable.app
 
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.

Exosomes are one of the most talked about ingredients in skincare right now, but most people buying them have no idea what they are actually paying for. In this episode, Dr. Mary Alice Mina sits down with Alisa Lask, CEO of Rion Aesthetics and lead of Plated Skin Science, to break down what exosomes really are, why the source they come from matters more than the word on the label, and how platelet-derived exosomes differ from plant and stem cell versions. They cover how exosomes penetrate the skin, whether microneedling helps or hurts them, realistic timelines for seeing results, safety around using donor-derived platelets, and where the research on hair loss and cellular aging currently stands. The conversation also digs into red flags to watch for when shopping this category, and why FDA approval status matters when evaluating any exosome product.
In this episode: 
00:00 — Intro 00:47 — Why Exosomes Are Everywhere (and Pricey)01:43 — Meet Alisa Lask, CEO of Plated Skin Science02:20 — What Exosomes Actually Are03:23 — Why the Source of Your Exosome Matters04:00 — Exosomes vs PRP: What's the Difference06:04 — Why Skin Doesn't Need an Injury to Heal07:03 — Can Exosomes Actually Penetrate the Skin08:15 — Plant vs Stem Cell vs Platelet Exosomes09:40 — How to Spot a Fake Exosome Product11:03 — Should You Microneedle Exosomes In13:17 — How Long Until You See Real Results16:33 — Is It Safe to Use Donor Platelets on Your Face18:11 — The Future of Exosomes Beyond Skincare19:18 — Can Exosomes Reverse Skin Aging21:05 — Exosomes for Hair Loss and Thinning24:40 — Are Injectable Exosomes FDA Approved Yet25:32 — Who Should Avoid Exosome Products27:05 — How to Apply Plated the Right Way28:46 — What's Next for Plated30:08 — Why Dr Mina Actually Uses This Product31:20 — Where to Learn More About Plated
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!
About the guest: 
Alisa Lask, the dynamic CEO of Rion Aesthetics, is at the forefront of revolutionizing the regenerative aesthetic market through the introduction of platelet-derived exosomes. Under her visionary leadership, Rion Aesthetics is pioneering investigational studies in areas such as hair restoration and facial wrinkles, while also boasting a successful and commercially available medical-grade skincare line, (plated)TM Skin Science, distributed through trusted aesthetic providers.
With a rich professional background, Alisa has served in esteemed senior leadership roles at industry giants like Allergan, Zimmer-Biomet, and Eli Lilly. She brings to the table a wealth of experience and expertise, holding a Master of Business Administration from the prestigious University of Michigan - Stephen M. Ross School of Business, coupled with a bachelor’s degree in marketing from Miami University, Oxford, OH.
Beyond her role at Rion Aesthetics, Alisa is an influential figure in the business world, serving on the Board of Directors at CollPlant (Nasdaq: CLGN), a regenerative aesthetics and medicine company.
An accomplished equestrian in show jumping on a national level, Alisa is not only dedicated to pushing the boundaries of regenerative aesthetics but is also actively involved in various organizations focused on dog rescue. Her passion for both business and philanthropy reflects a multifaceted leader with a commitment to innovation, excellence, and making a positive impact in diverse spheres.
Connect with Alisa Lask:
Website: https://www.rionaesthetics.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alisa.lask_rion/
( plated )™ Skin Science Skincare: https://platedskinscience.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/platedskinscience
 
About the host: 
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.

In Part 2 of this mini series on Collagen Loss, Dr. Mary Alice Mina moves from biology to action: the exact morning and evening skincare routine that makes sense for post-menopausal skin, which ingredients actually have evidence behind them, and which in-office treatments are worth the money. She walks through why a routine built for oily 20-something skin works against you later, then breaks down a simple AM routine (gentle cleanse, antioxidant/vitamin C serum, moisturizer, sunscreen) and PM routine (cleanse, retinol/retinoid as the cornerstone anti-aging ingredient, moisturizer), plus how to exfoliate without damaging the skin barrier. She then ranks in-office options — red light therapy, IPL, microneedling, neurotoxins, resurfacing lasers, chemical peels, and skin-tightening devices — explaining who each is right for and when surgery becomes the better conversation. The message throughout: it doesn't need to be complicated or expensive, just consistent and matched to where your skin actually is.
In this episode: 
00:00 — The Treatment That Boosts Collagen 400%00:35 — Welcome to The Skin Real01:20 — Disclaimer & Finding a Board-Certified Dermatologist02:00 — Recap of Part 1 & What's Coming Today03:15 — Why Your 20s Routine Doesn't Work Anymore04:45 — Morning Routine: Cleansing for Post-Menopausal Skin06:15 — Morning Routine: Antioxidant & Vitamin C Serums09:30 — Morning Routine: Moisturizer & Hyaluronic Acid12:00 — Why Sunscreen Is Non-Negotiable13:15 — Evening Routine: Cleansing & Double Cleansing15:30 — Evening Routine: Retinol vs. Retinoid — The Cornerstone Ingredient19:00 — Alternatives: Bakuchiol, Peptides & Adapalene21:30 — Sealing In Moisture After Retinol22:15 — How (and How Often) to Exfoliate25:00 — In-Office Treatments: Where to Invest26:00 — Red Light Therapy27:15 — IPL for Redness & Discoloration28:45 — Microneedling: The 400% Collagen Boost31:00 — Neurotoxins: Botox, Dysport & Where to Treat First33:00 — Resurfacing Lasers, Chemical Peels & Tightening Devices34:30 — When Surgery Makes More Sense35:00 — Recap & Final Thoughts
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!
🔗 Join the 5-Day Perimenopause Challenge: https://hi.theskinreal.com/5-day-perimenopause-challenge
📱Download The Skin Real app!
Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-skin-real/id6748411628
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=vyten.theskinreal&hl=en_US
🔔 Follow for weekly evidence-based skin advice from a dermatologist you can actually trust.
📩 Find a board-certified dermatologist near you: https://www.aad.org
🛍️ Shop Dr. Mina's recommended skincare on Aire Health: https://www.airehealth.com/skinstore/drminaskin
🔗 Scan your skin with my AI app: https://realskin.lovable.app
 
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.
 

In the first half of a two-part episode on midlife skin, Dr. Mary Alice Mina breaks down the biology behind one of the most alarming stats in dermatology: women can lose up to 30% of their skin's collagen in the first five years after menopause. She explains why collagen decline actually starts as early as your 20s (about 1% a year), why estrogen loss accelerates that process dramatically at menopause, and why "collagen banking" earlier in life matters so much.
Rather than jumping straight to products and procedures, Dr. Mina makes the case that skincare is whole-body care — walking through the inside-out factors that most directly affect collagen: protein intake (including how much you actually need and why vegetarian/vegan diets make it harder), sugar and glycation (AGEs), anti-inflammatory fats, antioxidants, hydration, and whether collagen supplements are actually worth taking.
Part 2 will cover the topical and in-office side of the equation, so be sure to follow/subscribe!
In this episode: 
00:00 — The 30% Collagen Loss Stat00:47 — Welcome to The Skin Real01:35 — Disclaimer & Finding a Board-Certified Dermatologist02:15 — Kicking Off the Two-Part Perimenopause Series03:15 — Who This Episode Is For04:15 — The Real Collagen Timeline: Loss Starts in Your 20s05:45 — Collagen Banking & the Post-Menopause 30% Drop07:30 — What Collagen Actually Is (and What Breaks It Down)09:00 — Signs Your Skin Is Losing Collagen10:30 — Why Skincare Isn't One-Size-Fits-All by Decade11:15 — The Inside-Out Philosophy12:30 — Protein: The Raw Material for Collagen14:00 — Sarcopenia & Why Protein Needs Change in Midlife15:45 — How Much Protein You Actually Need17:15 — Sugar, Glycation & AGEs18:45 — Sugar, Inflammation & Hidden Sugar Everywhere20:00 — Anti-Inflammatory Fats, Antioxidants & Hydration21:30 — Collagen Supplements: Do They Actually Work?22:15 — Recap & What's Coming in Part 2
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!
📱Download The Skin Real app. Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-skin-real/id6748411628 Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=vyten.theskinreal&hl=en_US
🛍️ Shop My recommended skincare on Aire Health: https://www.airehealth.com/skinstore/drminaskin
🔗 Scan your skin with my AI app: https://realskin.lovable.app
 
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.

In this episode of The Skin Real, Dr. Mary Alice Mina sits down with fellow board-certified dermatologist Dr. Amaris Geisler, a specialist in vulvar dermatoses based in Atlanta, to break the silence around a body part most women can't even name correctly — the vulva. They cover what the vulva actually is (versus the vagina), the most common conditions dermatologists see there (lichen sclerosis, eczema, psoriasis, and even skin cancer), and why so many women get dismissed with a yeast infection diagnosis instead of a real workup. Dr. Geisler explains the lifelong treatment path for lichen sclerosis, the risks of leaving it untreated (scarring and squamous cell carcinoma), how symptoms and pigmentary changes can present differently in skin of color, and why products like Vagisil and fragranced washes often cause more harm than good. The conversation also tackles the psychological and relational toll of vulvar skin disease, and closes with practical advice on red flags, finding a specialist, and what a proper workup with a dermatologist and gynecologist looks like. The throughline: your vulva is skin, it deserves the same care and attention as anywhere else on your body, and there is nothing shameful about asking for help.
In this episode: 
00:00 — The Symptom No One Talks About00:40 — Show Intro & Medical Disclaimer01:35 — Meet Dr. Amaris Geisler & Why This Conversation Matters03:15 — How She Fell Into Vulvar Dermatology05:55 — What Is the Vulva, Really? (Anatomy 101)07:55 — The Most Common Vulvar Skin Conditions10:10 — Yes, Skin Cancer Can Happen Here Too13:25 — Why Self-Checks and Full-Body Exams Matter15:25 — Lichen Sclerosis Symptoms: Itching, Pain & Fissures16:55 — Treatment: Steroids and the Lifelong Maintenance Plan19:25 — The Real Risks of Skipping Treatment (Scarring & Cancer)21:25 — Menopause, Hormones & the Lichen Sclerosis Connection24:25 — When (and How) Biopsies Are Actually Done26:55 — Cysts, Fear, and the "Is This an STD" Question28:25 — The Truth About Hygiene (Stop Douching)30:25 — Allergic Reactions: Vagisil, Fragrance & What's Actually Safe32:55 — Vulvar Conditions in Skin of Color34:55 — The Mental Health Toll of Vulvar Skin Disease36:10 — Sex, Intimacy & Reassurance for Partners36:55 — Red Flags: When to See a Doctor Immediately37:40 — How to Find a Vulvar Specialist38:15 — What a Proper Workup Looks Like38:45 — Final Advice: Treat Your Vulva With Kindness39:15 — Outro: Subscribe & More Resources at theskinreal.com
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!
📱Download The Skin Real app. Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-skin-real/id6748411628 Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=vyten.theskinreal&hl=en_US
🔗 Scan your skin with my AI app: https://realskin.lovable.app
🛍️ Shop Dr. Mina's recommended skincare on Regimen Pro: https://regimenpro.com/pages/practice-homepage/19cad6bd-63ea-4c6d-b2ec-64c06c3f7a6b
 
About the Guest:
Dr. Amaris Geisler is a board-certified dermatologist specializing in general and cosmetic dermatology, with a particular expertise in vulvar disorders, pigmentary conditions, alopecia, and skin of color. She has published extensively in these areas and is committed to advancing evidence-based care and improving dermatologic outcomes for diverse patient populations.
Dr. Geisler completed an accelerated B.S./M.D. program in New York, where she was born and raised, before moving to Atlanta to pursue dermatology residency at Emory University. She is delighted to continue her career in Atlanta as part of the Olansky Dermatology team.
Passionate about mentorship and medical education, Dr. Geisler serves as an Adjunct Assistant Professor of Dermatology at Emory University. She is actively involved in the dermatology community through her committee roles with the American Academy of Dermatology, Women’s Dermatologic Society, Skin of Color Society, International Society for the Study of Vulvovaginal Disease, and the Vulvar Dermatology Research Consortium. She has earned multiple awards and grants from each of these societies, and was also the recipient of a Scholars Award that gave her the opportunity to complete a month of her residency training at Harvard Dermatology.
Outside of medicine, Dr. Geisler enjoys traveling, pilates, long walks, and discovering new restaurants. She especially treasures time spent with her husband, bullmastiff, and cane corso.
Connect with Dr. Amaris Geisler:
Website: https://www.olanskydermatology.com/provider/dr-amaris-geisler/
Instagram: @dr.amaris.geisler
 
About the host: 
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.
 

Salmon sperm in your skincare? It sounds wild, but PDRN (polydeoxyribonucleotide) is everywhere right now — on your For You page, in Korean skincare hauls, and yes, Kim Kardashian had it injected into her face. In this episode, Dr. Mary Alice Mina cuts through the hype and gives you the full, unfiltered picture on what PDRN actually is, where it comes from, and what the science really says.
Dr. Mina breaks down the two proposed mechanisms behind PDRN — the adenosine A2A receptor pathway and the salvage pathway — and explains why the concept is genuinely exciting on paper. But she also walks through the critical limitations in the research: most studies are in vitro or in animal models, and the most compelling human trial was done on diabetic foot ulcers — a very different biological situation than healthy skin aging.
She addresses the big practical problem with topical PDRN: the molecule is large and negatively charged, meaning your skin barrier (doing its job) likely blocks most of it from penetrating to where it needs to work. She also flags a major labeling issue — some popular "PDRN" products are actually plant-based, which uses an entirely different molecule that can't be compared to salmon-derived PDRN research. And many of these products are packed with well-studied supporting ingredients like niacinamide and ceramides, which may be doing the real heavy lifting.
Dr. Mina's bottom line: PDRN may have a future, but we're not there yet. Before spending money on the trend, double down on what we know actually works — retinoids, sunscreen, ceramides, sleep, and a healthy diet.
In this episode: 
00:00 – The Salmon Sperm Skincare Moment00:35 – Welcome to The Skin Real (Full Podcast Intro)01:30 – Disclaimer02:15 – Why PDRN Is Everywhere Right Now03:10 – What Is PDRN? Breaking Down the Name04:40 – Where Does PDRN Come From?05:40 – The Purification Process (It's Not Raw Fish)06:10 – How PDRN Is Supposed to Work: The A2A Receptor08:10 – The Salvage Pathway Explained08:55 – What Does the Research Actually Show?09:55 – Animal Studies: Promising but Not the Whole Picture10:30 – The Human Clinical Trial (Italian Diabetic Foot Ulcer Study)11:25 – The Big Leap: Ulcers ≠ Wrinkles11:55 – Why Topical PDRN Struggles to Penetrate Your Skin12:55 – Microneedling, Lasers & Injections as Workarounds13:30 – PDRN vs. Retinoids, Sunscreen & Niacinamide14:00 – The Acne Scar Study: Was PDRN Really the Hero?14:55 – The Plant-Based PDRN Problem15:30 – What Else Is in Your PDRN Product?16:15 – Dr. Mina's Verdict & What She Recommends Instead
Note: Audio quality may vary in this episode.
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!
📱Download The Skin Real app. Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-skin-real/id6748411628 Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=vyten.theskinreal&hl=en_US
🔗 Scan your skin with my AI app: https://realskin.lovable.app
🛍️ Shop Dr. Mina's recommended skincare on Regimen Pro: https://regimenpro.com/pages/practice-homepage/19cad6bd-63ea-4c6d-b2ec-64c06c3f7a6b
 
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.

Fungal acne is everywhere on social media, but most people are treating it completely wrong. In this episode of The Skin Real, Dr. Mary Alice Mina breaks down what fungal acne actually is: an overgrowth of malassezia yeast, not bacteria, and not true acne at all. She explains why standard acne treatments often fail, who's most at risk (think sweaty workouts, humid climates, tight clothing, and recent antibiotic use), and how to tell it apart from regular acne by looking at itch, uniformity, and the absence of blackheads or whiteheads. Dr. Mina walks through her go-to over-the-counter arsenal, including antifungal shampoos, sulfur washes, salicylic acid, and niacinamide, plus when it's time to see a dermatologist for prescription-strength options. She also shares the daily habits that keep flares from coming back. If you've been fighting stubborn bumps that just won't clear, this episode might finally explain why.
 
In this episode:
0:00 — Introduction to Fungal Acne
0:43 — Welcome to The Skin Real
1:12 — What Is Fungal Acne, Really?
2:35 — How Fungal Acne Connects to Dandruff and Tinea Versicolor
3:30 — Why Standard Acne Treatments Don't Work
4:00 — Who's Most at Risk for Fungal Acne
5:50 — Antibiotics, Immunocompromise, and Yeast Overgrowth
7:10 — How to Spot Fungal Acne vs. Regular Acne
9:00 — Sponsor Break: Regimen Pro
9:50 — Over-the-Counter Treatment: Antifungal Shampoos
11:40 — Sulfur Washes for Fungal Acne and Acne
13:00 — Salicylic Acid and Why It Works So Well
14:50 — Niacinamide as a Supportive Ingredient
15:20 — When to See a Dermatologist
16:30 — Will Fungal Acne Come Back?
17:30 — Prevention Habits and Maintenance Routine
19:10 — Final Thoughts and Closing
 
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!
📱Download The Skin Real app. Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-skin-real/id6748411628 Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=vyten.theskinreal&hl=en_US
🔗 Scan your skin with my AI app: https://realskin.lovable.app
🛍️ Shop Dr. Mina's recommended skincare on Regimen Pro: https://regimenpro.com/pages/practice-homepage/19cad6bd-63ea-4c6d-b2ec-64c06c3f7a6b
 
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.