The Skin Real ®
Welcome to The Skin Real—your no-nonsense guide to clear, confident, and healthy skin. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by skincare, confused by beauty trends? Or stuck on the ‘hot girl’ hamster wheel of youth preservation, then you Skin Friend, are in the right place. I’m your host, Dr. Mary Alice Mina, a double board-certified dermatologist with over 15 years of clinical experience. And here’s the deal—great skin isn’t just about what you put on it. It’s about how you care for yourself from the inside and out. Here we go beyond just skincare to talk wellness, vitality, nutrition, mental well-being, hormones, and everything in between. So if you’re ready for clarity, confidence, a little fun and a whole lot of skin wisdom, here’s the tea—because this is how dermatologists talk skin.
Episodes

Thursday Aug 29, 2024
Thursday Aug 29, 2024
Check out Dr. Mina's top picks for skin care here.
Download the free eBook 'Skincare Myths Busted' here.
We all love the idea of 'clean beauty' and people will spend a lot on products that promise just that. But did you know that 'clean beauty' doesn’t really have a clear definition? This can make things pretty confusing for us as consumers.
For some people, it may mean products without synthetic chemicals, while for others, it’s all about using natural or plant-based ingredients, or animal free testing. But because there’s no set standard, what one brand calls 'clean' may not match your definition of 'clean.' It really depends on the brand you choose, and there's no universal standard. Unfortunately, it's mostly a marketing term by brands today.
Tune into this week's recap episode, where I share key insights from the latest podcast episode featuring Dr. Lindy Fox.
Key Takeaways:
- Clean beauty is a marketing term with no clear definition or standardization.
- Skincare products labeled as 'natural' can still contain ingredients that are harmful or allergenic.
- Fragrances and essential oils are common sensitizers and allergens in skincare products.
- Patch testing can help identify potential allergens in skincare products.
- A simple skincare routine with a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen is sufficient for most people.
- Consistency is key in achieving healthy skin.
Follow Dr. Mina here:- https://instagram.com/drminaskin
https://www.facebook.com/drminaskin
https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskinFor more great skin care tips, subscribe to The Skin Real Podcast or visit www.theskinreal.comBaucom & Mina Derm Surgery, LLCEmail - scheduling@atlantadermsurgery.comContact - (404) 844-0496Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/baucomminamd/Thanks for listening!
The content of this podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes and does not constitute formal medical advice.

Monday Aug 26, 2024
Monday Aug 26, 2024
Check out Dr. Mina's top picks for skin care here.
Download the free eBook 'Skincare Myths Busted' here.
Who hasn't come across the term 'clean' beauty? I know I have. And really, who wouldn’t want their beauty products to be clean? But have you ever stopped to think about what 'clean beauty' really means? You might be surprised to find out that it’s not as simple as it sounds. The concept of 'clean beauty' is actually quite nuanced, and there's no one-size-fits-all definition. What the marketing suggests and what it actually means can be two very different things.
Want to learn more about clean beauty and go behind the scenes with a dermatologist turned skincare creator, then be sure to check out this week's podcast with Dr. Lindy Fox to get the real scoop on clean beauty. Is it genuine or just a buzzword? Learn what clean beauty really means, the top products to use, and the biggest myths about clean beauty.
Key Takeaways:
- The term 'clean beauty' has no real definition and can mean different things to different people.- Marketing terms like 'dermatologist approved' and 'medical grade' often have little meaning and can be misleading.- It is important to avoid common sensitizers in skincare products, such as fragrances and certain preservatives.- Maintaining a healthy skin barrier is crucial, and using gentle cleansers and moisturizers can help achieve this.- Parabens, while they can be endocrine disruptors, may not pose a significant risk when applied topically. Simplicity is key in a skincare routine.- Educate yourself on problematic and safe ingredients.- Empower yourself to test products for sensitivities.
In This Episode:
(8:54) The Confusion Surrounding Clean Beauty
(11:22) The Problem with Marketing Terms in the Skincare Industry
(14:47) Avoiding Common Sensitizers in Skincare Products
(21:10) The Truth About Parabens
(22:58) Ingredients to Look for
(29:00) The Dangers of Essential Oils and Plant-Based Ingredients
(33:56) The Importance of Sustainable Packaging
Get Dr. Mina's free PDF on How to create Healthy Skin Habits here.
Dr. Lindy Fox is Professor of Clinical Dermatology, Director of the Hospital Consultation Service, and Director of the Complex Medical Dermatology Fellowship in the Department of Dermatology at the University of California, San Francisco. Her areas of expertise are inpatient and complex medical dermatology. Dr. Fox is a founding member and past-President of the Society of Dermatology Hospitalists (SDH). Dr. Fox is the prior President of the Medical Dermatology Society and Pacific Dermatology Association. She began her service on the AAD Board of Directors in March 2021. In addition to her academic work, Dr. Fox is co-founder of VETTED Dermlab, a hypoallergenic skincare company.
Follow Dr. Lindy Fox here:
https://www.instagram.com/drlindyfox/
https://www.instagram.com/vetteddermlab/
https://www.ucsfhealth.org/providers/dr-lindy-p-fox
Follow Dr. Mina here:- https://instagram.com/drminaskin
https://www.facebook.com/drminaskin
https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskinFor more great skin care tips, subscribe to The Skin Real Podcast or visit www.theskinreal.comBaucom & Mina Derm Surgery, LLCEmail - scheduling@atlantadermsurgery.comContact - (404) 844-0496Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/baucomminamd/Thanks for listening!
The content of this podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes and does not constitute formal medical advice.

Thursday Aug 22, 2024
Thursday Aug 22, 2024
Check out Dr. Mina's top picks for skin care here.
Tune into this week's recap episode, where Dr. Mina shares key insights from the latest podcast episode featuring Amy Koberling.
Key Takeaways:
Melasma can be triggered by hormones, sunlight, heat, visible light, and inflammation.
Treatment for melasma should be slow and consistent, avoiding aggressive treatments.
Sunscreen and other sun protective measures are crucial for preventing melasma.
Seek professional guidance for skincare to determine the best products and routines for your skin condition.
Avoid complicated skincare routines and DIY trends, and focus on simplicity and consistency.
Get Dr. Mina's free PDF on How to create Healthy Skin Habits here.
Download the free eBook 'Skincare Myths Busted' here.
Follow Dr. Mina here:- https://instagram.com/drminaskin
https://www.facebook.com/drminaskin
https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskinFor more great skin care tips, subscribe to The Skin Real Podcast or visit www.theskinreal.comBaucom & Mina Derm Surgery, LLCEmail - scheduling@atlantadermsurgery.comContact - (404) 844-0496Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/baucomminamd/Thanks for listening!
The content of this podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes and does not constitute formal medical advice.

Monday Aug 19, 2024
Monday Aug 19, 2024
Check out Dr. Mina's top picks for skin care here.
I love connecting with other dermatology experts, and my recent chat with Amy Koberling from The Skinthusiast was such a treat! There’s something special about talking with people who share the same passion for skincare. We talked about everything from the newest skincare treatments to some of the most bizarre trends we’ve come across (and trust me, we’ve seen it all).
Listen to this week’s podcast episode where she shares her best skincare tips, discusses which trends are worth it, and explains what everyone should know about skincare.
Key Takeaways:
- Simplify your skincare routine and focus on clinically proven ingredients.
- Sunscreen is essential for skin health and should be used daily.
- Look for products that target your specific issues rather than just piling on actives.
- Seek shade and use additional sun protection measures in addition to sunscreen.
- if you’re battling melasma, be cautious with hot saunas and certain LED masks, as they could aggravate your condition.
- Find a trusted source of skincare information and avoid falling for overhyped trends.
In this Episode:
(4:22) What is Skinthusiast?
(8:56) Amy's Approach to Skincare
(14:17) Managing Melasma and the Need for Sun Protection
(19:15) Skincare Trends that aren't Worth the Hype
(23:35) Cosmetic Procedures Worth the Hype
(28:54) Top 3 Tips for Healthy Skin
Get Dr. Mina's free PDF on How to create Healthy Skin Habits here.
Download the free eBook 'Skincare Myths Busted' here.
Amy Michaels Koberling is a Cosmetic Dermatology PA specializing in skin care and the founder and creator of Skinthusiast, a website, an online community and a podcast dedicated to decoding the often confusing world of skin care. Trained by one of the country’s most revered Dermatologists, Amy set out to make quality, effective skin care accessible to everyone. On the daily she is managing patients and prescribing personalized, efficacious skin care regimens while also creating educational and digestible skin and hair care content for the consumer.
Amy speaks on expert panels, provides cosmeceutical lectures to other Dermatology providers, has been featured as a skincare expert for beauty publications and works with beauty and skincare brands across the country as a Key Opinion Leader. It’s her passion to educate the public on skincare, hair care and wellness so that they can take actionable steps to feel their best selves.
Find Amy Koberling here:
Website: https://skinthusiast.com/IG: https://www.instagram.com/amykoberling/FB: https://www.facebook.com/theskinthusiast/TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@the_skinthusiast?lang=en
Follow Dr. Mina here:- https://instagram.com/drminaskin
https://www.facebook.com/drminaskin
https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskinFor more great skin care tips, subscribe to The Skin Real Podcast or visit www.theskinreal.comBaucom & Mina Derm Surgery, LLCEmail - scheduling@atlantadermsurgery.comContact - (404) 844-0496Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/baucomminamd/Thanks for listening!
The content of this podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes and does not constitute formal medical advice.

Thursday Aug 15, 2024
Thursday Aug 15, 2024
Check out Dr. Mina's top picks for skin care here.
If you're anything like me circa 2010, you may have thought of sleep as a waste of time in today's busy world. I mean, seriously, couldn't I be a whole lot more productive with 8 hours than just lying in bed?! Yikes, but that's exactly how I used to think about sleep. And in today's go-go-go world, it's easy to see how that message is propagated.
But now I'm older and wiser (hopefully), and the word is getting out that sleep is not just a waste of time or a sign of weakness, but actually an integral part of our body's healing and vitality. I mean, they don't call it "beauty sleep" for nothing! While we previously viewed sleep as a period of downtime when our bodies and minds shut off, we now realize sleep is actually a dynamic, active state that plays a vital role in our physical health, mental well-being, and overall quality of life.
Tune into this week's recap episode, where I share key insights from the latest podcast episode featuring Dr. Funke Afolabi-Brown.
Key Takeaways:
- Sleep is not a waste of time, but a critical time of self-care and restoration.- Establish a consistent sleep routine and environment for quality sleep.- Keep technology out of the bedroom and read before bed to calm the mind.- Going to bed early is essential for waking up feeling rested.- Cut back on device usage and mindless TV watching to create more time for sleep.- Consistent sleep routines are important for children of all ages.- Sleep is a vital component of overall health and skin health.
Get Dr. Mina's free PDF on How to create Healthy Skin Habits here.
Download the free eBook 'Skincare Myths Busted' here.
Follow Dr. Mina here:- https://instagram.com/drminaskin
https://www.facebook.com/drminaskin
https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskinFor more great skin care tips, subscribe to The Skin Real Podcast or visit www.theskinreal.comBaucom & Mina Derm Surgery, LLCEmail - scheduling@atlantadermsurgery.comContact - (404) 844-0496Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/baucomminamd/Thanks for listening!
The content of this podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes and does not constitute formal medical advice.

Monday Aug 12, 2024
Monday Aug 12, 2024
Get Dr. Mina’s Ultimate (Affordable) Skincare Guide here.
Think you’re being productive by skipping sleep? Think again! Sleep is such an essential part of our well-being, but it often gets tossed aside when life gets hectic. When you prioritize sleep, you’re not just setting yourself up for a better tomorrow; you’re investing in a healthier, happier, and more productive version of yourself.
Tune into this week’s podcast with Dr. Funke Afolabi-Brown as she dives into why sleep matters, the benefits, tips for better rest, and whether aging makes sleep harder!
Key Takeaways:
Sleep is not a sign of weakness, but a necessary and productive activity for overall health and well-being.
The recommended amount of sleep varies by age, with adults needing 7-9 hours, teenagers needing 8-10 hours, and children needing 9-13 hours.
Consistency in sleep schedule and routine is key for good sleep quality.
Creating a sleep-friendly environment, free from distractions and with optimal temperature and lighting, can improve sleep.
Limiting technology use before bed and practicing calming rituals can help prepare the body for sleep.
When waking up in the middle of the night, assess if there are any discomforts or needs to address before trying to go back to sleep.
Supplements like magnesium and vitamin D can aid sleep, but they are not a substitute for addressing underlying sleep issues.
In This Episode:
(7:20) The Importance of Sleep
(10:11) Understanding the Recommended Amount of Sleep for Different Age Groups
(17:16) Consistency: The Key to Good Sleep
(18:47) Tips for Getting Good Sleep
(23:45) Creating a Bedtime Routine
(25:00) How to Get Back to Sleep When You Wake up at Night
(26:35) Exploring Supplements for Better Sleep
Get Dr. Mina's free PDF on How to create Healthy Skin Habits here.
Download the free eBook 'Skincare Myths Busted' here.
Dr. Funke Afolabi-Brown is a triple board-certified sleep medicine physician and pediatric pulmonologist. She is the founder of RestfulSleepMD, where she helps high-achieving professionals and their children change their relationship with sleep so they can move from being drained and exhausted to thriving in their families, careers, and relationships.
She achieves this through clinical practice (The Restful Sleep Place), coaching, speaking, and organization consultation. She is a best-selling author and has been featured on various media outlets, including ABC.
She obtained her sleep medicine training at the University of Pennsylvania and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.
Find Dr. Brown here:
Website: https://www.therestfulsleepplace.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restfulsleepmd/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drfunkebrown/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restfulsleepmd
Follow Dr. Mina here:- https://instagram.com/drminaskin
https://www.facebook.com/drminaskin
https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskinFor more great skin care tips, subscribe to The Skin Real Podcast or visit www.theskinreal.comBaucom & Mina Derm Surgery, LLCEmail - scheduling@atlantadermsurgery.comContact - (404) 844-0496Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/baucomminamd/Thanks for listening!
The content of this podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes and does not constitute formal medical advice.

Thursday Aug 08, 2024
Thursday Aug 08, 2024
Get Dr. Mina’s Ultimate (Affordable) Skincare Guide here.
In this episode, Dr. Mina breaks down the key takeaways from her interview with Dr. Jen Haley, a board-certified dermatologist with expertise in nutrition and fitness health. Dr. Mina emphasizes that skincare starts from within and highlights the significance of nutrition, movement, mindset, and supplements. She also mentions the compound effect and the power of making small, consistent changes over time. Overall, the episode focuses on the holistic approach to skincare and the connection between our internal health and the appearance of our skin.
Key Takeaways:
Skincare starts from within, and taking care of our bodies is crucial for optimal skin health.
Nutrition plays a significant role in skin health, and it is important to focus on whole foods and brightly colored fruits and vegetables.
Movement is key for overall health, including skin health. Incorporating regular physical activity and avoiding a sedentary lifestyle is essential.
The compound effect of making small, consistent changes over time can have a significant impact on our health and well-being.
Supplements can be beneficial, but it is important to choose reputable brands that have been third-party tested.
Mindset and mental health are essential for overall well-being, and they can significantly impact our skin health.
Taking a holistic approach to skincare, considering internal factors alongside external treatments, is crucial for achieving healthy and radiant skin.
Get Dr. Mina's free PDF on How to create Healthy Skin Habits here.
Download the free eBook 'Skincare Myths Busted' here.
Follow Dr. Mina here:- https://instagram.com/drminaskin
https://www.facebook.com/drminaskin
https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskinFor more great skin care tips, subscribe to The Skin Real Podcast or visit www.theskinreal.comBaucom & Mina Derm Surgery, LLCEmail - scheduling@atlantadermsurgery.comContact - (404) 844-0496Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/baucomminamd/Thanks for listening!
The content of this podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes and does not constitute formal medical advice.

Monday Aug 05, 2024
Monday Aug 05, 2024
Get Dr. Mina’s Ultimate (Affordable) Skincare Guide here.
Biohacking seems to be the new buzzword in the health and longevity space, but what does it really mean? And how can we use it for our skin's health?
Biohacking is about making small, manageable changes to your lifestyle and diet to optimize your health. For healthy skin, biohacking is a mix of skincare routines, dietary tweaks, and lifestyle adjustments. The way you take care of your entire body shows up on your skin. Skincare isn't just about applying the right creams in the right order; it starts from the inside out!
Tune in to this week’s podcast with Dr. Jen Haley as she covers how diet affects skin, the skin-gut-brain connection, the role of exercise, and top tips for healthy skin through inner health!
Key Takeaways:
- Nutrition plays a crucial role in overall health and skin health.- A real food diet, low in processed foods and high in nutrients, is beneficial for health and skin health.- Exercise, particularly weight training, is important for maintaining muscle mass and bone density.- Building positive relationships and surrounding oneself with a supportive community is vital for overall well-being.- Embracing change and being intentional in one's actions can lead to personal growth and fulfillment. Embrace change and be authentic in relationships.- Focus on nutritionally dense foods and high-quality supplements.- Vitamin D and magnesium are important for overall health.- Exercise and stress management are crucial for skin health.- Top three tips for health: movement, eating real food, and cultivating connection and community.
Get Dr. Mina's free PDF on How to create Healthy Skin Habits here.
Download the free eBook 'Skincare Myths Busted' here.
Dr. Haley received her BS in biology and nutrition from Cornell University before receiving her Doctor of Medicine. She completed her internship and residency in San Diego and has been a Board-Certified Dermatologist since 2004. While serving as an Officer in the United States Navy, Dr. Haley was selected as the VIP dermatologist consultant to the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. In 2006, Dr. Haley was named as the Head of the Dermatology Department in Pearl Harbor. Since 2009, Dr. Haley has been in private practice using her extensive international experience in medical, cosmetic and integrative dermatology.
She has a podcast, called Radiance Revealed, where she brings together experts from all fields to discuss tips on how to integrate wellness into your life to achieve your true radiance. Dr. Haley has also worked on the scientific advisory board for multiple skin care start-up companies and regularly contributes to national and international publications (Oprah, BHG, Shape, WebMD) with her knowledge on holistic skin health. She currently has a concierge and telemedicine practice in 20 states through Dermatologistoncall.com platform.
Find Dr. Haley here:
https://www.instagram.com/drjenhaley/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-haley-md-faad-a4283b46/
Follow Dr. Mina here:-https://instagram.com/drminaskinhttps://www.facebook.com/drminaskinhttps://www.youtube.com/@drminaskinFor more great skin care tips, subscribe to The Skin Real Podcast or visit www.theskinreal.comBaucom & Mina Derm Surgery, LLCEmail - scheduling@atlantadermsurgery.comContact - (404) 844-0496Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/baucomminamd/Thanks for listening!The content of this podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes and does not constitute formal medical advice.

Thursday Aug 01, 2024
Thursday Aug 01, 2024
Get Dr. Mina’s Ultimate (Affordable) Skincare Guide here.
In this conversation, Dr. Mina discusses the role of AI in dermatology with Dr. Faranak Kamangar, the creator of DermGPT. While AI can provide valuable information and assist in diagnosing skin conditions, it is not a substitute for in-person evaluation by a dermatologist. AI can also accelerate drug development and clinical trials, leading to faster treatment options for patients. Overall, AI is seen as an adjunct to healthcare, enhancing the doctor-patient relationship and improving patient care.
Tune into this week's recap episode, where Dr. Mina shares key insights from the latest podcast episode featuring Dr. Faranak Kamangar.
Key Takeaways:
AI in dermatology can provide valuable information and assist in diagnosing skin conditions.
However, it is not a substitute for in-person evaluation by a dermatologist.
AI can accelerate drug development and clinical trials, leading to faster treatment options for patients.
AI is seen as an adjunct to healthcare, enhancing the doctor-patient relationship and improving patient care.
Follow Dr. Mina here:- https://instagram.com/drminaskin
https://www.facebook.com/drminaskin
https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskinFor more great skin care tips, subscribe to The Skin Real Podcast or visit www.theskinreal.comBaucom & Mina Derm Surgery, LLCEmail - scheduling@atlantadermsurgery.comContact - (404) 844-0496Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/baucomminamd/Thanks for listening!
The content of this podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes and does not constitute formal medical advice.

Monday Jul 29, 2024
Monday Jul 29, 2024
Get Dr. Mina’s Ultimate (Affordable) Skincare Guide here.
By now, who hasn't heard about artificial intelligence (AI) and programs like ChatGPT? AI is clearly transforming various fields, including healthcare, and it’s here to stay. In dermatology, AI has the potential to revolutionize how we diagnose and treat skin conditions, resulting in better patient outcomes and more efficient care. But is it all good news and rosy?
Join this week's episode with Dr. Faranak Kamangar as we discuss how AI might change healthcare, how patients can use it to improve their health, and get Dr. Kamangar's top three tips for using AI in your skin health journey!
Key Takeaways:
- Derm GPT is an AI tool that uses curated dermatology information to provide accurate responses to dermatology-related queries.
- AI technology, such as chat GPT and image-based AI, can be beneficial in dermatology but should be used as an assist rather than a replacement for clinical judgment.
- The use of AI in dermatology is evolving and has the potential to revolutionize the field in the future.
- The way medicine is practiced and patient engagement is changing, and AI technology is likely to play a significant role in the future of healthcare. AI platforms like Derm GPT empower patients by providing information and guidance on dermatological conditions.
- Telehealth improves access to care and enhances health equity, particularly for patients in rural areas or with limited access to dermatologists.
- The use of AI in research and drug development is accelerating the discovery and development of new treatments for chronic diseases.
In This Episode:
(6:33) DermGPT: An AI Tool for Dermatology
(10:20) How does DermGPT work?
(13:55) Techniques to get Best Results
(21:35) Changing Landscape of Medicine and Patient Engagement
(26:45) Enhancing Access to Care through Telehealth
(30:30) Concerns About Telehealth
(36:01) Top 3 Tips For Using DermGPT
Get Dr. Mina's free PDF on How to create Healthy Skin Habits here.
Download the free eBook 'Skincare Myths Busted' here.
Dr. Faranak Kamangar is a Silicon Valley-based board-certified dermatologist, engineer, and thought leader in the healthtech field. In her Palo Alto practice, she is dedicated to removing barriers for patients and physicians alike. Dr. Kamangar founded DermGPT, an innovative, first-of-its-kind AI tool that curates answers from more than 3,000 peer reviewed journals to help dermatologists improve clinical efficiency through practical colleague-like answers. She serves as the Chair of the Palo Alto Medical foundation and President of the San Francisco Dermatological Society.
Dr. Kamangar has also received national attention being featured in national publications including Medical News Today, Women's Health, Business Insider, and others, along with hosting the podcast The Future of Dermatology.
Follow Dr. Kamangar here:
https://www.instagram.com/farakamangarmd/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-faranak-kamangar-md-b7a40579/
https://thefutureofdermatology.podbean.com/
Chatbot: dermgpt.com
Follow Dr. Mina here:- https://instagram.com/drminaskin
https://www.facebook.com/drminaskin
https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskinFor more great skin care tips, subscribe to The Skin Real Podcast or visit www.theskinreal.comBaucom & Mina Derm Surgery, LLCEmail - scheduling@atlantadermsurgery.comContact - (404) 844-0496Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/baucomminamd/Thanks for listening!
The content of this podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes and does not constitute formal medical advice.