The Skin Real ®

Is Stress Flaring Your Skin?

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Still experiencing breakouts despite using all the right products? You’re not alone and no, your skin isn’t just “acting up.” It’s responding to stress.
In this week's recap episode, I unpack the key takeaways from my conversation with Dr. Keira Barr, a board-certified dermatologist who’s become a leading voice in psychodermatology. I talk about how your skin is biologically wired to respond to emotional stress and what that means for your acne, rashes, or flare-ups that seem to appear out of nowhere.
Your skin and nervous system share the same embryologic origin, which means when one is off, the other follows. If you’re navigating chronic skin issues that no serum seems to solve, this episode is your roadmap to finally understanding what’s really going on and what to do about it!
🎙️Want more expert skin advice without the overwhelm?
Subscribe to The Skin Real Podcast wherever you listen, and visit www.theskinreal.com for dermatologist-backed tips to help you feel confident in your skin—at every age.
Follow Dr. Mina here:- 
https://instagram.com/drminaskin
https://www.facebook.com/drminaskin
https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/drminaskin/
Visit Dr. Mina at Baucom & Mina Derm SurgeryWebsite: atlantadermsurgery.comEmail: scheduling@atlantadermsurgery.comCall: (404) 844-0496Instagram: @baucomminamd
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 Stress Shows Up on Your Skin (and What To Do About It)

The Skin Real app is officially LIVE! Download it now.
Shop my skincare favorites here.
Tired of blaming your breakouts on your moisturizer? The real culprit might be stress.
In this episode, Dr. Mina speaks with Dr. Keira Barr, a leading  dermatologist, about the deep (and science-backed) connection between your mind, your stress levels, and your skin. From breakouts to rosacea and hormonal shifts, Dr. Barr explains how chronic stress and unprocessed emotions can lead to inflammation, flare-ups, and skin that feels like it’s fighting back.
You’ll learn about the “NICE Network”—a 4-way biological highway between your nervous, immune, cutaneous, and endocrine systems and why nervous system regulation might be the missing piece in your skincare routine. 
 Key takeaways:
How the skin acts as a stress response organ
Why unresolved trauma can trigger skin issues
What the NICE Network is and how it affects skin health
How perimenopause impacts the skin and emotions
Easy ways to integrate somatic skincare into your routine
If you’re a skincare minimalist, a wellness seeker, or just want to understand why your skin flares when your life does, this one’s for you.
Dr. Keira Barr is on a mission to change the conversation about skin health. As a dermatologist and somatic trauma therapy practitioner, she helps women heal the invisible wounds that fuel skin issues—and create a relationship with their bodies based on trust instead of control. As the founder of the Center for Mind Skin Medicine and creator of Somatic Skincare™, she is a passionate guide for women ready to reclaim their radiance from the inside out.
Find Dr. Barr here:
https://drkeirabarr.com/
https://www.instagram.com/drkeirabarr/
https://www.facebook.com/drkeirabarr
Need an app? Click here to get $100 off at Vyten.
🎙️Want more expert skin advice without the overwhelm?
Subscribe to The Skin Real Podcast wherever you listen, and visit www.theskinreal.com for dermatologist-backed tips to help you feel confident in your skin—at every age.
Follow Dr. Mina here:- 
https://instagram.com/drminaskin
https://www.facebook.com/drminaskin
https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/drminaskin/
Visit Dr. Mina at Baucom & Mina Derm SurgeryWebsite: atlantadermsurgery.comEmail: scheduling@atlantadermsurgery.comCall: (404) 844-0496Instagram: @baucomminamd
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.

Why Your 10-Step Skincare isn't Working

The Skin Real app is officially LIVE! Download it now.
Get my free PDF on How to create Healthy Skin Habits here.
Download the free eBook 'Skincare Myths Busted' here.
If your skincare routine is starting to feel like a second job and your self-care checklist is leaving you more exhausted than empowered, this episode is for you.
In today’s recap, I dive deep into the “Edit” pillar of my R.EA.L. Skin Method. This is about cutting through the clutter—physically and mentally, and letting go of the habits, products, and pressures that aren’t actually serving your skin or your life. We’re taking a step back from the never-ending pursuit of perfection and asking: what truly helps, and what’s just noise? Because skincare should support your health, not hijack your headspace.
Tune in for a much-needed reality check, and permission to do less—better.
Shop my skincare favorites here.
Need an app? Click here to get $100 off at Vyten.
🎙️Want more expert skin advice without the overwhelm?
Subscribe to The Skin Real Podcast wherever you listen, and visit www.theskinreal.com for dermatologist-backed tips to help you feel confident in your skin—at every age.
Follow Dr. Mina here:- 
https://instagram.com/drminaskin
https://www.facebook.com/drminaskin
https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/drminaskin/
Visit Dr. Mina at Baucom & Mina Derm SurgeryWebsite: atlantadermsurgery.comEmail: scheduling@atlantadermsurgery.comCall: (404) 844-0496Instagram: @baucomminamd
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 R.E.A.L. Skin Method

The Skin Real app is officially LIVE! Download it now.
Shop my skincare favorites here.
On this week's episode of the Skin Real Podcast, I’m getting real about something I see every day as a dermatologist and as a woman: skin care overwhelm. The trends, the steps, the products…it’s a lot. And honestly? It’s mostly unnecessary.
After two decades as a board-certified dermatologist, I’ve created a method that cuts through the confusion and helps you build a routine grounded in what your skin actually needs. The R.E.A.L. Skin Method isn’t about chasing perfection. It’s about empowering you to take care of your skin in a way that’s effective, evidence-based, and sustainable.
 Don’t miss this one—your skin (and sanity) will thank you.
Need an app? Click here to get $100 off at Vyten.
🎙️Want more expert skin advice without the overwhelm?
Subscribe to The Skin Real Podcast wherever you listen, and visit www.theskinreal.com for dermatologist-backed tips to help you feel confident in your skin—at every age.
Follow Dr. Mina here:- 
https://instagram.com/drminaskin
https://www.facebook.com/drminaskin
https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/drminaskin/
Visit Dr. Mina at Baucom & Mina Derm SurgeryWebsite: atlantadermsurgery.comEmail: scheduling@atlantadermsurgery.comCall: (404) 844-0496Instagram: @baucomminamd
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.

Top Tips for Virtual Dermatology Visits

The Skin Real app is officially LIVE! Download it now.
Can you really get help for your acne or eczema over a video call? Yes—and in this recap episode, Dr. Mina tells you how.
With so many of us juggling packed schedules and long wait times for in-person visits, Dr. Mina explores how virtual dermatology appointments are not only a convenient alternative but, in many cases, an incredibly effective one.
She breaks down exactly how these appointments work, what equipment (if any) you need, and how patients can receive expert guidance on conditions like acne, rosacea, melasma, eczema, and more—all from the comfort of their own home.
If you’ve ever wondered whether teledermatology could work for you or your family, or you’re curious about what a virtual appointment actually looks like, this episode is for you. 
Need an app? Click here to get $100 off at Vyten.
Shop Dr. Mina's skincare favorites here:
https://www.airehealth.com/patients/drminaskin
🎙️Want more expert skin advice without the overwhelm?
Subscribe to The Skin Real Podcast wherever you listen, and visit www.theskinreal.com for dermatologist-backed tips to help you feel confident in your skin—at every age.
Follow Dr. Mina here:- 
https://instagram.com/drminaskin
https://www.facebook.com/drminaskin
https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/drminaskin/
Visit Dr. Mina at Baucom & Mina Derm SurgeryWebsite: atlantadermsurgery.comEmail: scheduling@atlantadermsurgery.comCall: (404) 844-0496Instagram: @baucomminamd
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.

Make the Most of your Teledermatology Visit

The Skin Real app is officially LIVE! Download it now.
In this episode, Dr. Mina chats with Dr. Tara Akunna, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of a virtual dermatology practice in Texas. Together, they dive into how teledermatology is making skin care more accessible, affordable, and flexible, especially for patients juggling full-time jobs, childcare, or long travel distances.
From treating acne and eczema online to addressing the concerns around quick-fix prescription apps, Dr. Akunna breaks down what virtual care can (and can’t) do, how to ensure you're seeing a qualified provider, and why direct-pay models may actually save patients time and money. If you’ve ever wondered whether a virtual derm visit is just as effective as an in-person one, this episode is for you.
Key Takeaways:
- Teledermatology improves access to skin care for busy professionals, parents, and those who live far from in-person providers.
- Common conditions like acne, eczema, rosacea, and melasma can often be treated effectively through virtual visits.
- Photo uploads (asynchronous care) are often encouraged to enhance video visits and help track changes in skin conditions over time.
- Not all telehealth platforms are created equal. Patients should seek care from board-certified dermatologists for personalized, safe treatment.
- Direct-pay models may be more affordable than insurance-based care when factoring in time, gas, childcare, and hidden costs.
- All ages can benefit from virtual dermatology—many older patients are surprisingly tech-savvy and can participate with some assistance.
- Telemedicine boosts patient adherence by reducing barriers like commuting, parking, or time off work for check-ins and refills.
- In-person care is still essential for procedures, full skin exams, and concerns that require touch, biopsy, or close inspection.
Dr. Tara Akunna is a board-certified dermatologist passionate about delivering accessible, culturally competent care to women of color. Through her virtual practice TaraMD, she offers cash-pay teledermatology services tailored to common skin concerns like acne, hyperpigmentation, and texture — all with transparent pricing and personalized treatment plans.
In addition to her virtual work, where she manages a wide range of medical and cosmetic concerns across all skin types. As a content creator, she uses her platform to demystify dermatology, highlight inclusive skincare brands, and empower people to make informed decisions about their skin.
Follow Dr. Akunna here:
https://www.tara-md.com/
https://www.instagram.com/_tara.md?igsh=MTNzcWthd2x1ZHk4ZQ==
https://www.youtube.com/@_taraMD
 
Need an app? Click here to get $100 off at Vyten.
 
Shop my skincare favorites here:
https://www.airehealth.com/patients/drminaskin
🎙️Want more expert skin advice without the overwhelm?
Subscribe to The Skin Real Podcast wherever you listen, and visit www.theskinreal.com for dermatologist-backed tips to help you feel confident in your skin—at every age.
Follow Dr. Mina here:- 
https://instagram.com/drminaskin
https://www.facebook.com/drminaskin
https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/drminaskin/
Visit Dr. Mina at Baucom & Mina Derm SurgeryWebsite: atlantadermsurgery.comEmail: scheduling@atlantadermsurgery.comCall: (404) 844-0496Instagram: @baucomminamd
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.

Top 5 Ways to Beat Pain

Are you secretly dodging the doctor’s office out of fear it might hurt? You’re not alone—and it’s more common than you think. In this week’s episode of The Skin Real, Dr. Mina dives into the real reasons so many of us avoid care and shares her top five ways to make your next dermatology visit actually less painful. Whether it’s fear of needles, past trauma, or just not wanting to be poked and prodded, this episode is packed with tips to help you get the care you need without the panic attack.
Key Takeaways:
- Fear of the doctor is real—and valid. Many adults experience anxiety around doctor visits, especially when needles or potential diagnoses are involved.
- Needle fear is on the rise. It's not just for kids—more adults are reporting anxiety about shots and blood draws.
- You’re not alone. From biopsies to bloodwork, fear of pain keeps many people from getting necessary care.
- Empathy matters. Even as a dermatologist, Dr. Mina admits she still finds blood draws stressful—no one is immune!
- Knowledge is power. Understanding what to expect at your appointment can significantly reduce fear.
- You can minimize the pain. Simple strategies like numbing patches or distraction techniques can make procedures much more bearable.
- Your health is worth it. Avoiding appointments may feel easier, but prioritizing your skin health leads to better long-term outcomes.
 
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🎧 Listen here.
If you’ve ever dreaded a shot or watched your kid have a meltdown before a blood draw, Thimble is for you. It’s a tiny patch that numbs the skin before any needle.Try Thimble with 20% off!
Check out my top picks for skin care here.
 
🎙️Want more expert skin advice without the overwhelm?
Subscribe to The Skin Real Podcast wherever you listen, and visit www.theskinreal.com for dermatologist-backed tips to help you feel confident in your skin—at every age.
Follow Dr. Mina here:- 
https://instagram.com/drminaskin
https://www.facebook.com/drminaskin
https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/drminaskin/
 
Visit Dr. Mina at Baucom & Mina Derm SurgeryWebsite: atlantadermsurgery.comEmail: scheduling@atlantadermsurgery.comCall: (404) 844-0496Instagram: @baucomminamd
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.

Avoiding the Derm? Here’s the Real Cost of Letting Fear Lead

Check out my top picks for skin care here.
Why do so many of us avoid going to the doctor—even when we know we shouldn’t? In this episode, Dr. Mina sits down with Dr. Manju Dawkins to unpack the deeply human fear that keeps patients away from the care they need. From needle phobia to fear of diagnosis, this conversation dives into the emotional blocks that sabotage our health and skin wellness.
Together, they explore how to replace avoidance with empowerment, creating safer, more compassionate healthcare spaces. Dr. Dawkins shares data, clinical insights, and thoughtful approaches to addressing patient fear—helping listeners understand what’s really behind the hesitation and how providers and patients alike can better navigate it.
Key Takeaways:
Fear of doctors is common and layered—often rooted in pain, past trauma, or fear of diagnosis.
Over 60% of adults now report needle fear, up dramatically from past decades.
Creating space in the exam room for vulnerability leads to better healthcare outcomes.
The traditional “paternalistic” model of medicine is outdated; patient autonomy and understanding are now key.
Transparency in healthcare—like doctors on social media—can reduce anxiety and increase trust.
Addressing fear can improve everything from skin health to early diagnosis and treatment of serious conditions.
Dr. Manju Dawkins is a board certified dermatologist who  received her B.A. from Columbia University and  her M.D. from the University of Maryland. She completed her dermatology residency and served as Chief Resident at Albert Einstein College of Medicine in the Bronx, NY. She was Assistant Professor at Mount Sinai School of Medicine where she was twice named Teacher of the Year.  She has practiced in academic, private, hospital based, and group practice settings in New York and Los Angeles. 
She is also the creator and co-founder of Thimble, the first easy, safe, and comprehensive solution for alleviating needle pain and stress. 
www.thimblehealth.com
Fun fact: She is 5'2" (on a good day. )
Even more fun fact: She played Division I basketball at Columbia University and served as captain her senior year. She is a founding and current member of the Columbia Women’s Basketball Advisory Board and a member of the Columbia Athletics Women’s Leadership Council.
 
Follow Dr. Dawkins here:
https://www.instagram.com/thimble.health/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/thimblehealth/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/manju-dawkins-md-a0224359/
http://thimblehealth.com/
https://www.tiktok.com/@thimble.health
https://www.facebook.com/thimble.health
🎙️Want more expert skin advice without the overwhelm?
Subscribe to The Skin Real Podcast wherever you listen, and visit www.theskinreal.com for dermatologist-backed tips to help you feel confident in your skin—at every age.
Follow Dr. Mina here:- 
https://instagram.com/drminaskin
https://www.facebook.com/drminaskin
https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/drminaskin/
 
Visit Dr. Mina at Baucom & Mina Derm SurgeryWebsite: atlantadermsurgery.comEmail: scheduling@atlantadermsurgery.comCall: (404) 844-0496Instagram: @baucomminamd
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 Real Reason Your Skin Looks Different in Midlife

If you're a midlife woman still chasing the "anti-aging" dream, this episode is your invitation to shift the narrative.
I’m sharing my key takeaways from my chat with Dr. Jen Haley—what biohacking actually means, how it applies to women in their 40s and 50s, and which trends are worth your time (and which ones you can let go of). It’s all about working with your biology—not against it—to feel strong, energized, and radiant for the long haul.
Follow Dr. Mina here:- 
https://instagram.com/drminaskin
https://www.facebook.com/drminaskin
https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/drminaskin/For more great skin care tips, subscribe to The Skin Real Podcast or visit www.theskinreal.comBaucom & Mina Derm Surgery, LLC
Website- https://www.atlantadermsurgery.com/Email - scheduling@atlantadermsurgery.com
Contact - (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.

Pro-aging: a Playbook for Women 40+

 
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If you're in your 40s or 50s and wondering why your skin suddenly feels different or why the products and routines that once worked now fall flat, you're not alone. In this episode of THE SKIN REAL, I sit down with fellow board-certified dermatologist Dr. Jen Haley to discuss the changes that happen to our skin during midlife.
We talk about why the goal shouldn’t be “anti-aging,” but rather aging well with intention, knowledge, and realistic expectations. We explore how hormonal shifts, lifestyle habits, and internal health impact your skin more than any expensive cream or trending procedure. And most importantly, Dr. Haley shares practical tools and mindset shifts to help you feel confident and in control of your skin again!
This episode is for anyone tired of the hype and looking for honest, expert advice on how to care for your skin in midlife and beyond.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Why trying to “fight aging” is a losing battle—and what to focus on instead
How to work with your body (and hormones) in midlife to support healthy skin
The overlooked lifestyle factors that impact your skin more than any serum
Why confidence, energy, and purpose are the real markers of beauty
Simple, dermatologist-approved strategies to care for your skin in your 40s and 50s
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. 
With her background in nutrition, fitness, and skin science, Dr. Haley understands the true integration of wellness and its effects on skin health.  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.  Since 2013, she has been the dermatology expert writer for FitnessRx magazine and has been actively sought to share her expertise consulting with numerous organizations, including many Global Fortune 500 companies.  Dr. Haley has trained other physicians since 2014 to perform Botox and filler techniques and is a sought out teaching expert in the aesthetic industry.  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.  Dr. Haley splits her time between Scottsdale, AZ and Park City, UT and is the local Dermatologist for KPCW radio in Park City, where she enjoys educating the public on all things skin.  She currently has a concierge and telemedicine practice in 20 states through Dermatologistoncall.com platform.  Dr. Haley has a passion for health, fitness, and nutrition and enjoys integrating science with nature in her treatment approaches.
Follow Dr. Haley here:
https://www.instagram.com/drjenhaley/?hl=en
https://radiancerevealed.libsyn.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-haley-md-faad-a4283b46/
https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/radiance-revealed-podcast/id1541361045
If you’re building a personal brand, this is for you! Wealthy & Well-Known is the new audiobook from my mentors, Rory and AJ Vaden—and it’s available for free before the official launch! It’s packed with insights on turning your reputation into revenue.
🎧 Listen here.
 
🎙️ Craving more expert skin advice without the overwhelm?
Subscribe to The Skin Real Podcast wherever you listen, and visit www.theskinreal.com for dermatologist-backed tips to help you feel confident in your skin—at every age.
Follow Dr. Mina here:- 
https://instagram.com/drminaskin
https://www.facebook.com/drminaskin
https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/drminaskin/
 
Visit Dr. Mina at Baucom & Mina Derm SurgeryWebsite: atlantadermsurgery.comEmail: scheduling@atlantadermsurgery.comCall: (404) 844-0496Instagram: @baucomminamd
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.