Podcast Summary: Skincare Anarchy – "Scratching Beyond The Surface of Nail Health with DefenAge"
Release Date: December 13, 2024
Host: Ekta
Guest: Dr. Natalie Curcio, Board-Certified Dermatologist and Representing DefenAge
1. Introduction
In this episode of Skincare Anarchy, host Ekta welcomes Dr. Natalie Curcio, a distinguished dermatologist and advocate for DefenAge products. The discussion delves deep into DefenAge's innovative approach to skincare and nail health, emphasizing the brand's scientific foundation and its impact on both consumers and professionals in the dermatology field.
2. Guest Introduction and Background
Ekta opens the conversation by expressing her admiration for DefenAge, highlighting the brand's prominence in their Top Picks awards.
Dr. Curcio shares her professional journey:
“I am a board certified dermatologist and MO surgeon. I have been practicing dermatology for 15 years and I've owned my own practice in Nashville, Tennessee for the past 11 years.” [00:43]
She recounts her first encounter with DefenAge in 2016 at the American Academy of Dermatology meeting, leading her to integrate their products into her practice after witnessing remarkable results firsthand.
3. The Science Behind DefenAge
A significant portion of the discussion focuses on the proprietary technology of DefenAge:
Dr. Curcio explains the core science:
“The technology in DefenAge is based on the defensin molecule. Defensins are natural messaging molecules in our body... DefenAge has patented these age repair defenses which when applied to the skin, trigger this process to create new fresh skin.” [03:39]
She elaborates on how DefenAge activates dormant LGR6 positive stem cells, promoting the generation of new basal cells and fresh skin. This mechanism addresses various signs of aging, including fine lines, wrinkles, textural irregularities, and more.
4. Expansion into Nail Health
Transitioning from skin care, Ekta steers the conversation toward DefenAge's foray into nail health.
Dr. Curcio discusses the rationale:
“DefenAge and its founder, Nikolai Turvitz, was able to figure out how to trigger the stem cells in the nail root to grow using the defensins.” [06:41]
She contrasts DefenAge's nail serum with traditional products, emphasizing its ability to stimulate the nail matrix rather than just cosmetically fixing existing nails.
5. Clinical Studies and Results
The effectiveness of the nail serum is backed by clinical research:
Dr. Curcio outlines the study parameters:
“They conducted a pilot clinical study... evaluated 40 nail plates... looking at nail plate smoothness, nail plate strength, speed of growth, and skin quality around the nails.” [08:59]
Key Findings:
- Up to 92% smoother nails
- Up to 54% stronger nails
- Up to 78% more hydration around the nail skin
- Enhanced nail growth within 30 days [09:00]
These results underscore the serum's capability to regenerate and strengthen nails from the root.
6. Practical Usage Tips
To maximize benefits, proper application of the nail serum is crucial:
Dr. Curcio provides a step-by-step guide:
“The recommended use is twice daily, once in the morning and once in the evening... apply one pump on the tip of the nail, brushing from the cuticle forward.” [15:59]
She emphasizes consistency and proper distribution to ensure optimal absorption and effectiveness.
7. Nail Health and Aging
Ekta brings attention to the often-overlooked aspect of nail health as part of the aging process.
Dr. Curcio highlights common issues:
“Brittle nail syndrome affects 20% of the population, with women being twice as likely as men...” [13:18]
She discusses factors exacerbating nail brittleness, such as environmental exposures, frequent manicures, and genetic predispositions, emphasizing the importance of addressing these issues proactively.
8. DefenAge's Educational Efforts
The conversation touches on the need for greater awareness around nail health:
Dr. Curcio advises:
“If people have had significant chronic nail problems, they should see a board certified dermatologist... before using a cosmeceutical.” [14:53]
She underscores the importance of differentiating between cosmetic solutions and underlying medical conditions that may affect nail health.
9. Upcoming Products and Future Plans
Looking ahead, DefenAge is set to expand its product line:
Dr. Curcio reveals:
“They just released their lip serum for rejuvenation and anti-aging... expanding into the post-procedure space with products for microneedling and lasers.” [17:31]
These new offerings aim to enhance post-procedural recovery and further address various aspects of skin and appendage health.
10. Conclusion and Recommendations
Ekta wraps up the episode by reiterating her endorsement of DefenAge products:
“I don't know a single product in the range that I don't love... the nail serum I think is definitely a game changer.” [19:00]
Both host and guest emphasize the brand's commitment to scientifically-backed solutions, encouraging listeners to explore DefenAge for comprehensive skin and nail health.
Notable Quotes:
- Dr. Curcio on DefenAge's Impact:
“DefenAge really, really has the science to back up the products and there's so many lines that don't.” [19:42]
- Ekta on Personal Experience:
“I've actually seen real results... I've definitely experienced them.” [19:54]
Final Thoughts:
This episode of Skincare Anarchy offers valuable insights into DefenAge's innovative approach to skincare and nail health. Dr. Natalie Curcio's expertise underscores the importance of science-backed products in achieving and maintaining healthy skin and nails. For listeners seeking effective solutions backed by clinical research, DefenAge emerges as a noteworthy contender in the skincare landscape.