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#skinthusiast: the podcast
Skin Care By The Decade, Menstrual Cups & Up-Leveling Your Life with Dr. Ewoma
00:49:27
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- [00:00]
A
Often I find when such sort of age groups want Botox, they're not using sunscreen, they're not using retinoids and I'm like, go do that, then come and talk to me if you must do injectables. I would say if I had to give a number, sort of 25 up. But even then, just a little wrinkle of Botox, just, just a little, just this is the first time and probably humanity that people are injecting their faces from 18 years old. And so with that in mind, but to a degree it's kind of, we're just going to have to see how this thing runs its course and how it develops and what people look like come age 40.
- [00:41]
B
Today I am joined by Dr. Uoma. She is a very famous cosmetic and medical doctor out of the uk. I found her content probably about six months ago and when I tell you that first night I scrolled for like an hour because her content is so helpful, so educational. But you'll know when you listen to this episode, her voice is so soothing and honestly mesmerizing to listen to. I get lost in her content every time. I mean she posts quite long videos and I swear it feels like 15 seconds because you just kind of get lost in the content and it's so, so, so good. But she has an incredible background. She went to the prestigious Liverpool School of Medicine in the uk. As I mentioned, she is both a cosmetical and medical doctor but she started much like me in my PA career in general medicine and she worked for the NHS over there in the uk. So it's a very like trial by fire way to start in medicine. So I think that informs a lot of the way that she kind of approaches content creation and it's just so helpful, so interesting to speak with her. We talked about everything in this episode from menstrual cups to procedures and skincare to be using throughout the decades of life, your 20s, your 30s, your 40s, how do you up level your skincare game and how do you uplevel your life? She gave us a few recommendations of books that have been life changing for her. Truly, this has been one of my most favorite conversations. She's so kind and let me tell you, she is exactly how she comes across on social media. Kind but straight to the point and so funny. So I hope you enjoy this episode with Dr. Uoma. Dr. Uoma, thank you so much for joining me today. I'm so happy that Vanessa Lee was able to connect us because I'm a huge fan of your Content and as I am of hers. And I just thought this would be such a good conversation.
- [02:18]
A
No, same. Thank you so much for having me, Amy. Yeah, Vanessa is a really good friend. Love her work. And when she connects us, I was like, oh, my God. Okay, let's have a conversation. I have a growing US audience, so, yeah, I've got to keep the girlies over there happy, too.
- [02:33]
B
Absolutely. And I am one of those audience members in the U.S. i think I found your account maybe, like, six months ago, and I think I spent a whole hour scrolling through because. And I'm sure you hear this all the time, but just the way you explain things, especially for us here in the US who aren't used to the accent, it's just like. It just lulls you. There's something, like, very therapeutic about your content, and it's also very educational. But you do it in such an entertaining way, which is not easy to do.
- [03:01]
A
Thank you, my love. Yeah, I'm blushing now, but, yeah, thank you.
- [03:05]
B
I like to start every podcast by asking my guests, what is your first skin memory?
- [03:11]
A
So my first skin memory is actually very funny one. And it's actually a skin memory that was retold back to me. So this was when I was about. I want to say I was about 5 or under. Just under. And I was told that I had basically gotten a tub of Palmer's cocoa butter, and I slathered it all over my body and started to eat it. So it does smell good.
- [03:38]
B
So I can understand.
- [03:39]
A
It smells so good. And hence I think I was onto something with that. But not quite. Not quite.
- [03:45]
B
That is so funny. So when did your love of cosmetics and skincare and procedures kind of develop? Because obviously you're. You're a cosmetic and medical doctor. Did you always know you wanted to get into cosmetics, or was it something that just kind of evolved later on?
- [04:01]
A
Definitely something that evolved later on. And I always have moments, particularly, you know, of late, where I'm like, oh, my God, is this actually my job? Like, how did we get here? Like, it's kind of crazy. So kind of starting with the more medical aspect again, unlike a lot of doctors, I definitely wasn't someone who wanted to be a doctor straight out of the womb. That was not me. I would definitely say kind of in my mid teens. Just pre mid teens. That's when I started to kind of cotton onto the idea of medicine. And I've always been a lover of science, biology, and. Yeah. And then thought sort of medicine was the perfect fit little side story. And forgive me If I'm rambling, I do have a slight tendency for that.
- [04:44]
B
That's okay.
- [04:45]
A
Yeah. But very emo, very Pisces. 15 year old Uoma basically wanted to become a doctor because I wanted to be able to say on my deathbed that I've helped people and I've helped to transform lives. Don't ask me why I was thinking that as a teenager, but that summarizes me. Thank you. And yeah. And then after that, you know, as I was getting my medical degree and everything, I wanted to be everything from a neurosurgeon to a geriatrician again. Really compelled to sort of helping and supporting more vulnerable populations. I started out then my career in our National Health Service in hospital. There was some, there were some nice moments. There were. But let's just say long story short was a baptism of fire. That. Yeah, it, it, yeah, a baptism of fire. And I just felt like this wasn't the place for me. It was a place that, long story short, I found quite toxic, led me to burnout. And then after that I went on a bit of a soul searching journey with regards to what I could do with my medical degree. Came very close to actually just leaving the profession full stop. And then I went to sort of a conference for doctors who sort of had diversified in their careers. And at the time there was a doctor there who was sort of in the world of esthetic medicine, that's what we called cosmetic dermatology here in the uk. And I was like, oh, this the thing. Because this was what I would say maybe six to seven years ago, if not a bit longer. Yeah, about seven or so years ago. And so then, you know, injectables, such treatments were very much only for high net worth people, celebrities. It wasn't on the public radar and I just thought it was the perfect sort of niche within medicine that allowed me to time my medical degree, but also my love for skin, my love for just, just art, because I was actually a real artist growing up. Has it answered your question?
- [06:55]
B
Yeah, and I love that you said that because that's something we always talk about in the industry. How much of this industry marries medicine, but also art. And there are a lot of brilliant providers who have brilliant minds, but they don't have that artistic side. And that's what really kind of differentiates cosmetic providers. You have to have that artistic side 100%.
- [07:16]
A
And I don't know about you, but you can always tell when they don't have the artistic eye and they try to learn, especially when it comes to fillers. They try to learn it in a very, I guess, could you call it didactic way. And you know, and it's like, baby, it's, it's not, it's not science. It's not. You would get it. You don't. And to teach that is quite hard.
- [07:36]
B
Yeah, I don't think you can teach it if like you said, if you're not, if you're not born with kind of that I. Or that side to you, it's something that you just can't teach. And it's not, not to say you can't excel in other. Absolutely other areas, but it's filler especially. I mean it's like sculpting. It's so every single face is different. You're going to approach it different every single time. You're going to approach the same patient every different every single time. I mean it's, it's all about like what's looking at you right now. So I'm glad that you mentioned that because I don't think anyone's ever mentioned that on this podcast. And I know that a lot of people who listen are very interested in following in footsteps into cosmetic dermatology. So that's a really, really good point. And some of my favorite content of yours, of course we love to talk about procedures here, but we are really skincare heavy. That's really my passion and the passion of a lot of the people who listen to this. Some of my favorite content of yours is kind of like skincare through the decades. So I'm hoping you can walk us through for the girlies starting in their twenties, what let's say you're completely green to skincare and you're in your 20s, what are the most important things that they should be doing?
- [08:40]
A
First of all, developing a skincare routine. It sounds very obvious to us, but you'd be surprised. Despite the age of skin intellectuals and a product that covers every single skincare sort of active, there's a lot of people that don't have a skincare routine. So I would definitely say making sure that you have such foundational things like that in place because once you have that and really also it's the discipline around skincare and it's that whole concept of sort of your skin is a bank. It's like you're investing, you're paying into this bank where your 40 year old self will later. Thank you. So, yeah, so in summary, discipline and a skincare routine, once you've gotten that down, I would absolutely say making sure that you're being diligent with your sunscreen. You'd be surprised. I don't know if it's the same in the States, but in the UK some of the girls still use tanning beds. And I'm like, crazy.
- [09:30]
B
Yeah, I think it's more common in the UK from what I've seen, but it's certainly still happening here.
- [09:34]
A
It's crazy. And even as a little anecdote as well, I never forget one of my patients, she very reluctantly admitted to me that she uses a sunbed. And I was in the process of doing her Botox and when she told me, I just gave her the look. And also just to sort of add context, I have a very fun relationship with my patients in the sense of they know I have very dry humor, I'm quite direct. And yeah, they know that I'm just being funny and not being rude. But I, but, but when she told me, I was like, babe, are you kidding me? I was like, you might as well give me, give me, give me the money for the Botox for free. Yeah, like just give me the money and just walk away because there's no point. But, but you're making sure that you have sort of a healthy relationship around sun, sun care and tanning and things. If you must tan, please just use a fake tan. What's the next thing? Also with regards to skincare actives, definitely your sort of mid-20s, early 20s. If you really want to be diligent using a retinol based product or retinoid based product, I would say those are the key things. If you want to be fancy and you've done all those things too, you can then throw in the concept of very low touch facials, hydrafacials, things like that.
- [10:51]
B
And what are your thoughts on injectables in this decade of life?
- [10:55]
A
I know, and it's funny because I'm sure you probably like, babe, there's one thing that you're missing from this honor. Where are the injectable?
- [11:03]
B
Maybe intentionally though. That's what I'd love to hear.
- [11:06]
A
Yeah, somewhat intentional that I, that I sort of skip those out because you know, again, it's about taking each case as they come and not everyone ages to the same sort of trajectory, so to speak. But I really have a problem with 21 year olds or those in their early 20s getting Botox. I'm like, why? Even I've had 18 year olds ask me, should I get like, you're bored. You are literally bored. You have nothing to do. Go and spend your Clothes on, shopping, not injectable.
- [11:40]
B
Exactly.
- [11:42]
A
And often I find when such sort of age groups want Botox, they're not using sunscreen, they're not, they're not using retinoids. And I'm like, go do that, then come and talk to me if you must do injectables. I would say if I had to give a number, sort of 25 up, but even then, just a little sprinkle of Botox, just, just a little. Just because I always say to people, and this is my general approach when it comes to injectables, this thing is a marathon and not a sprint. You know, this is the first time and probably humanity that people are injecting their faces from 18 years old. And so with that in mind, you know, if I'm being absolutely transparent, the industry won't admit it, but to a degree it's kind of, we're just going to have to see how this thing runs its course and how it develops and what people look like come age 14. We're starting to see this already with regards to concerns and the controversy with regards to filler migration, how long it's retained for, et cetera. But yeah, with that in mind, just, just be concern to be conservative because it's, it's very easy with this thing to look crazy.
- [12:51]
B
Yes, yes. And I think too at 25, you know, even if you are seeing to see some of those fine lines at rest, your skin integrity is still so good that you don't need to jump on it right now. Right. It's different than when you're in your 30s or your 40s and you're seeing those fine lines at rest because your skin is still in such good shape that if you do it Botox one time, the lines are going to go away. So unless they're really driving you crazy right now, you can wait, you've got some time before you really need to address it.
- [13:18]
A
I absolutely agree. And even to add to that, with regards to skin integrity for some 20 year olds and obviously beyond actually the skin should also be the focus of specifically where they have things like acne. You know, I've had situations where patients come to me, they have significant, I'd say more on the moderate end acne, but they want a full face of filler. And that conversation, obviously you have to approach it very sensitively, but again, to be very blunt, it's like baby, focus, focus on the skin, then we can talk about injectables. Because I always say that again, this is kind of one of my pearls of sort of, of skincare and approach to non invasive treatments. I always say that the sort of glass skin, perfect skin, whatever you want to call it, it's actually a tale of distraction techniques. So for example, if you have very healthy looking skin, people are going to sort of overlook the fact that oh actually she's got a couple of crow's feet around her eyes or actually, you know, I don't know, she, she's got a little bit of pigmentation on the side of her face, you know, so it's about basically winning on the low hanging fruit first before you try and do everything else.
- [14:28]
B
That is such a great point. I think sometimes even. And I'm sure you, well, maybe not, you have such amazing skin. But when we're going to events and you know, people know who you are, especially when you're going to these skincare events, it can be scary because you're like, oh, my skin is not in its best place right now. I've struggled with melasma after my pregnancy, so I'm always like, oh my gosh, what are people gonna think? And those are the days where they're like, oh my gosh, you have perfect skin. I'm like, really? And it come, it comes back to that, just that like kind of glow, the increased radiance, it really, that reflection of light will take you a long.
- [15:00]
A
Way, you know, a very long way. And. But I totally agree with you. This job, baby, I don't about you, but it makes you really dysmorphic. But that's a whole nother story.
- [15:08]
B
Yeah, and it's funny too because since I've been in the industry, I've actually changed so much. When I first started injecting patients, I myself wanted to try everything if there was something new on the market. I was the first one. I was like, yes, do it on me. I want to see what it does. Now I'm like, no, no, no, no, no, no, no. Like I am the last to do something. I do as little as I possibly can. And it's just kind of funny how that like transition happens.
- [15:33]
A
So true. And I think also I have that same approach. Maybe it's an age thing, but also I think it's the medic in me. It's that whole sort of concept of what we often say medicine of watch and wait, just watch and wait, you know, so when new things come into the market, I'm like, how is this going to progress? Are we going to get, you know, a flurry of maybe side effects in the first year? A great Example of that. I don't think you have it in the States. Correct me if I'm wrong, it's profilo.
- [15:58]
B
I don't know if we have it here yet. I know I personally don't have it at my clinic, but I've heard kind of some talk about it.
- [16:04]
A
Okay, perfect. So I guess it's kind of like a next generation skin booster. And for, you know, in short. But I remember when that first came out again maybe about six years ago. And at first I was like, what is this? Like? Well, again, skin boosters weren't really a thing then. But then it's kind of stood the test of time. And I'm like, oh, okay, so, okay, this is good to use. Let's jump on this too.
- [16:29]
B
Yeah, I totally feel you that on that. And I'm lucky that I work in a clinic where we're also, we also do a lot of the FDA trials for the injectables that are coming into United States, which is really fun to see. So what often I'll have to explain to my patients is, and this happened with quo, which was an injectable cellulite treatment. You know, they follow the patients for let's say, three months and it's like, oh, they look great for those three months, but then we still follow them in clinic. So in six months to a year, we then are seeing what actually happens. And it's funny because that injectable end up getting pulled off the market. But we never, we did, we did trials, but we never carried it because we were like that. Once the swelling went down, the cellulite was back. So just an example of how exactly what you said. Kind of seeing how these treatments stand the test of time before we're doing them on ourselves and also implementing them for our patients. Definitely something we probably both learned the hard way, I'm sure.
- [17:19]
A
Oh, we're learning in real time, baby. That's for sure.
- [17:24]
B
Okay, so moving on to the 30s, once they have the 20s down, what do you recommend adding at that point?
- [17:30]
A
Yeah, so once you have all of that down, I think that's where you can get maybe more creative with say at home devices. So particularly things like LED mask, microcurrent. I don't like the advocacy of patients micro needling at home, I'll be honest. Obviously, where maybe you know, is sort of a, A micro needling device, if you can even call it that. That's been adjusted for home maybe. But I generally don't like it because again, I never forget this sort of one liner that one of my consultants, like a senior doctor taught me in, in a hospital. But he basically said we respect our patients, but we don't trust them. I, I don't trust people with the microneedle at home. They're just, you know what it's like they're gonna, somehow they'll do something crazy. So not too keen on that. Also definitely very much into the 30s where you can explore injectables more. So definitely the skin boosters. I think you guys have skin Viv, right?
- [18:33]
B
Yes.
- [18:33]
A
So the skin vibes, things like that. Yes. Okay, cool. Do more regular Botox also. I think that's where you can move into, in clinic devices too. So something that I personally like and even side note, I am in my 30s. I generally keep my age quite mysterious. I'm like a mysterious millennial. But yes, I am in my 30s and I personally love what we call here ultherapy. It's.
- [18:59]
B
Yes, me too.
- [19:00]
A
Micro focus. Yeah. Ultrasound great for sort of the lower face. I feel like, particularly in the 30s, low face becomes an issue. That kind of dreaded submental fullness, sagginess. That's great for tightening that. Yes. You can also move into sort of the non ablative laser realm. And I would largely say that's it. That's it. So. Yeah.
- [19:23]
B
And how do you use all therapy for yourself? How often do you do it?
- [19:27]
A
So I try and do it at least twice a year. Okay. I could maybe do it once a quarter, but that stuff's expensive.
- [19:34]
B
Yes.
- [19:35]
A
And. And again, I just with these treatments, less, less, you know, something like ultherapy. But in general, when it comes to sort of non invasive treatments, I really tried to pace myself because, you know, we have all of these things at our disposal. Right. And it's very easy to get carried away. And I feel like no shade, no tea. A lot of the women in our industry look crazy.
- [19:57]
B
Yes, they really do.
- [19:59]
A
They've been getting high off their own supply. So I'm like. Just because it's there. Iwoma, baby step.
- [20:05]
B
Yes. And again, it's like something you have to learn after being in the industry for a while because it's so exciting. In the beginning you're like, oh my gosh, I can do everything. And then you learn quickly that that's not the best approach.
- [20:16]
A
Definitely not.
- [20:18]
B
And at home devices, you mentioned microcurrent, you mentioned led. How do you incorporate those into your own routine?
- [20:24]
A
So with something like microcurrent, definitely, you know, consistency is king. Same with led, really, but particularly micro current, I tend to do it when I'm doing my morning skincare routine and you only need to do it for about five minutes a day, super easy. And then I think it's from about maybe the six week mark. That's where you can do it a couple times a week. But genuinely, that ish snatches me pretty instantly. And again, there is, you know, it is evidence based, so, you know, people can be assured at that. And I think also it's a great adjunct to lifting, tightening, sort of injectable treatments and whatnot that you're doing in clinic too.
- [21:07]
B
Yeah, I agree completely. I do the same two. Those are the only two at home devices I use. I use the microcurrent in the morning and an LED mask at night.
- [21:16]
A
I'm not sure that.
- [21:17]
B
Yeah, and the led, I. Well, I like the microcurrent in the morning, obviously, because you get that immediate effect of it. And then at night, after I cleanse, I just do the LED mask while I'm like meditating or usually on social media or whatever else. Realistically. Okay, so after 30s, moving into our 40s, what can we start to look at here?
- [21:38]
A
Yeah, so it's funny, the 40s, I feel like, you know, we're entering late millennials. Slash, would they be baby boomers?
- [21:47]
B
Late millennial? Is that what's Gen X is next, right?
- [21:50]
A
Gen X, Yeah, I think so. No, I think you're right. That sounds right. Anyway, the generation after all, that comes before millennials, those people love you too. What I found in my experience is that, you know, how we're all clued up about a skincare routine and use retinol and sunscreen and, you know, those kind of foundational things, that there's a knowledge gap there. All of that wasn't in their time.
- [22:17]
B
Okay.
- [22:17]
A
It wasn't in their day. They're only kind of learning about it now. And so definitely I'd say, yeah, just the knowledge gap is there and. And yeah, they have a different approach. And so even on a very sort of elementary level with that in mind, I would just say get clued up on what is out there. What's the best way to get clued up on what's out there? Social media. Again, I do love and hate it for, for fact finding, but it is a good, quick, easy resource. And then also, I would definitely say at that age, if you know, you can get in touch with an expert. Really? Also at any decade, you can throw in an expert, but particularly in the 40s, if you have absolutely no clue, get in touch with the dermatologist to kind of give you a full treatment plan. Next thing I'd say is if you have been abandoning and neglecting and torturing your skin for four decades, this is the time to go with the more intense treatments. So, you know, very much the sort of medium depth and beyond chemical peels, you know, the ablative lasers like Fraxel. Indeed. You can go in with the, with the injectables. But again, I would say at this age, it's very easy to look crazy if you get a bit too excited with injectables. If you go a bit crazy with injectables in your 20s, it can still, it can still kind of look cute.
- [23:47]
B
Kind of see what you're saying.
- [23:49]
A
Yes, you'll just, you look crazy real quick. I don't know whether, again, it's. It's because of the integrity of the skin and whatnot, the thinness of the skin, etc. But, but yeah, I would say have a definite sort of conservative approach with injectables. But for those, I'd say yeah. The main, main difference is really, and.
- [24:09]
B
I think especially speaking of a knowledge gap in this decade, oftentimes I see patients in the 40s and even the 50s come in asking for injectables and things like that. But really what is kind of screaming at me in the face and also what they're seeing is kind of that mottled skin, the sun damage. And I think they're thinking filler's gonna fix all their problems. But in reality, you have to focus on the skin first.
- [24:31]
A
Hundred percent. And even one thing that I forgot, a key thing that is very rational to consider at that age is surgery.
- [24:38]
B
Yes, yes, I'm with you on that. I think it's something that with the advancements we see in an aesthetics and cosmetic dermatology, people think that they can get results that they cannot without surgery and having that open conversation. It's something I have with patients every week. You know, it's not a comfortable conversation always, but sometimes the truth is, with me, you're going to be wasting your money when it comes to sagging and lifting and things like that. We can focus on, you know, your skin, but when it comes to fixing the structural changes that we're seeing, really, sometimes surgery is. That's the key.
- [25:14]
A
Agreed. But a lot of injectors will promise that they can do that with a needle. And like, again, I think that's where people start looking crazy.
- [25:23]
B
Yeah. And I think that's why there's a huge misconception that injectables can do things that they can't do. This episode is brought to you by. Well, me. Skinthusiast.com is your one stop shop for all things skin, hair and beauty. I have countless blog posts to educate you on all the skin concerns and most common skin questions I receive. We also have a complete skincare basics guide on our shop page as well as the Cutest in my skin era crewnecks. If you want to support the show, please head over to skynthusiast.com shop and don't forget to rate and review the show wherever you listen to podcasts. Okay, so for someone, we mentioned a few little extras here, but for someone who's doing everything right, they're doing their vitamin C, strict sun protection, they're doing their retinoids. Maybe what's like one or two things that we can add in? Of course we don't have the person in front of us to tailor it, but like what's one or two things you would start to add in?
- [26:14]
A
I'd say more generally speaking the first thing is lifestyle. People really overlook that. So whether it be just obviously your overall diet, how much you sleep, a lot of us don't sleep properly, me included. And also supplementation. So skin specific supplementation can of course include collagen, you know, your omega threes, things like that, a lot of people overlook it. And I feel like actually a lot of people still don't see the connect between what we put into our bodies and the way that we look, particularly with our skin.
- [26:49]
B
Absolutely. My MAS will tell me when a new patient comes in. They, they will immediately warn me like whether or not lifestyle is a factor. And you can almost always see it on the face. You can really, really tell. They there's like a very specific look for people who have a harder lifestyle and you can always see it on the skin.
- [27:06]
A
You can tell and God bless them, they look weathered. You know, you can tell baby girl, you've been through stuff, haven't you? But it's okay, we're going to, we're going to save the day. But yeah, you can always tell and.
- [27:17]
B
To be fair, those patients often see some really good results because they're so naive to some of these changes. Just making a few of these simple changes in lifestyle and then really hitting it hard with either the procedures and or skin care. They can really see a difference usually a lot quicker than someone who has been living a really great lifestyle and taking care of their skin. Right. Because they, they are naive to these changes. So they see the changes Quicker, which is. Is fun to do.
- [27:42]
A
Agreed. And I find that such a patient is a lot more teachable too. A lot more teachable. And they're generally very. What's the word? Self motivated.
- [27:51]
B
Yeah, I would agree with that. So you mentioned supplements. Can you tell us a little bit about your own personal supplement routine?
- [27:57]
A
Oh, God, I. I've fully jumped back into my supplement era of late. I'm actually working with a naturopath who's actually based out in the States. So, yeah, that's been kind of what's been guiding my supplement routine of late. And what we're focusing on now is actually my gut. Obviously the gut is, you know, the body's, you could arguably say, most important sort of microbiome. And as we know, there's the sort of gut skin axis and yeah, that's been great. And it's essentially been a blend of different kind of probiotics and also sort of different supplements to essentially cure my gut or sort of help to heal my gut. Post antibiotic use, a lot of us have, you know, had episodes of being on antibiotics. In my early teens into early 20s, I was on, on and off antibiotics for my acne. Side note, one thing they don't tell you that ish messes up your gut even when, you know, years, even after being on it. Definitely something I wasn't told. But anyway, so, yeah, so that's been the focus. But outside of that, I also take things like Omega 3, so have a good sort of fish oil that I take. I occasionally take my collagen when I'm being really good. The two collagens? Actually, no, my favorite collagen is the Vita Glow collagen. Love that.
- [29:29]
B
What probiotics do you use? Or is it kind of a tailored from your naturopath?
- [29:35]
A
It's tailored, but I'm going to try and find the brand. Sorry, I've got my laptop.
- [29:39]
B
No, that's perfect. Thank you for looking for us.
- [29:41]
A
All right. I think it's called microbiome. Yeah, it's called microbiome labs.
- [29:46]
B
Okay, good to know. Because I know people are going to want to know the specifics.
- [29:49]
A
I know.
- [29:50]
B
They always do.
- [29:51]
A
And I'm sure they even like, who's your naturopath? I'm like, girl, I'm not telling you.
- [29:54]
B
I was gonna ask, but then, like, you know what? I'll ask her privately off camera because she may not want to share because then you can't get an appointment.
- [30:01]
A
I know. Maybe I should. No, yeah, I should. So it's Dr. Elizabeth Wade. And she's based out in Portland. And then I like some tinctures from organic Olivia as well. I like the liver juice and natal nourish.
- [30:16]
B
Okay, good to know. People are always very interested in the supplement routine. So whenever someone mentions it, I love to hear what they're doing. It's just so fun to, like, hear what everyone else is doing too.
- [30:26]
A
It's so fun.
- [30:27]
B
Okay, a couple of little extra questions I have based on some of your. My favorite content of yours. One is you have an aura ring and you talk about it. I just got mine a couple days ago. So I would love to hear, like, what do you love about it? What's been your experience? Any little tips and tricks that you have?
- [30:43]
A
Yeah, well, even. You know what the first thing very random that I'd say about the aura ring is if you know, you know, you know your list is a planning to get one. Bear in mind, if you want, if you want, slash, if you wear gold jewelry, do not get gold. Don't get the gold aura ring. Because that ring, the gold color is yellow. Like, it's bright yellow.
- [31:07]
B
It is very yellow. I have it on.
- [31:08]
A
So word of warning. Oh, no, sorry.
- [31:10]
B
I know I should have recorded this before. That's okay.
- [31:13]
A
It's fine. I'm sure it still looks cute. Instead. What I found, and I found one or two girls in TikTok saying this, but actually what I found is that the rose gold color is actually more sort of similar to gold.
- [31:25]
B
That is such a great tip.
- [31:27]
A
Yes. I've had it now for, I think, at least four months. I really love it. Definitely what I'd say right off the bat is, do you need it? Absolutely not. Let's be honest. It's an overpriced ring, but some of us in the world are what we call in the UK rather jobless. And we need a piece of jewelry to tell us when to sleep and. And to tell us to breathe and to walk. But if you're that way inclined, you'd absolutely love it. I know there's other ones on the market, but hey, whatever. I think the coolest thing about the Oura ring that's been amazing for me has definitely been the stats around sleep. I've realized that I don't sleep enough. So that's been amazing. And it really kind of breaks down to you, the quality of sleep, how long you're in REM sleep. Yes, you were in bed for eight hours, but actually only were asleep for maybe six. And again, the reminders of, oh, your bedtime is coming Up. Fantastic. And then second of all, what else do I love? I love the. The step counter in it. What I would say though, is if you're expecting Apple watch level of exercise monitoring, you're not going to get that. That's. That's the only bad thing. So walks runs fine, but I don't know if you're doing some strength training or Pilates. It just gets confuzzled. Doesn't know what to do. And then lastly, what's the other amazing thing? Yes. Also I think not even what I think. What I love about it is that it's great for us work addicts over workers, overachievers who need objective reminders, pointers to calm down, specifically in the context of, you know, I think. I don't know if you resonate with this, Amy, but you know sometimes where you're like, oh, I just feel really under the weather.
- [33:32]
B
Yes.
- [33:32]
A
And you're just like, oh, whatever, I'm being lazy. Like, sorry, I can't swear. Can I? Definitely.
- [33:38]
B
Yes, I can. Yes.
- [33:40]
A
Like censoring myself the whole time. You know when you're like, wake up. Yes. You don't have time. Yes.
- [33:47]
B
You're hard on yourself. Like, get your butt off the couch. Like, you have no reason to be tired.
- [33:52]
A
Exactly. But then the aura ring comes in. It's like, actually, Amy, your heart rate variability has been XYZ for the past 24 hours. Your temperature is creeping up. So actually we think you're about to get sick. And yeah, it's pretty accurate with that. So I think that has been one of the most amazing things.
- [34:12]
B
That's so amazing. I think I need. I. Like I said, I've only had it on for a couple days, so I haven't experienced that yet, but I definitely need that because every time I'm about to get sick or even, like, I just haven't gotten good sleep or I'm just under the weather for whatever reason. I'm always so tough on myself about it and I try to push through and so it'll be good to have that reminder of maybe I shouldn't.
- [34:32]
A
Yeah.
- [34:33]
B
And speaking of steps, too, I put off this purchase for so long because I am of the camp where I shouldn't need a piece of jewelry to tell me to do something. But in reality, I just, I. I operate better when I have somebody yelling at me on my phone. Right. So, like, it just works better for me. Um, and there's actually a creator here from the U.S. emily DiDonato. She's amazing. She did a little, like, trial because her husband didn't believe that he was. She was getting as many steps as she was. So she bought a pedometer and it was exactly accurate to the ordering, which made me feel really good about the number of steps. So she said it was like, pretty much spot on. So. But I am going to make note of that rose gold tip because that's. That's a really, really good tip.
- [35:17]
A
I don't know if you can see this is rose gold.
- [35:19]
B
It looks so nice. And. And I'm with you. Like the Apple watch, it's like, it's helpful, but it's so ugly. So I just would never end up wearing it because I hated the way it looked. Even they make the like, pretty little. Like, I don't care. This. The little black box is not it.
- [35:32]
A
It is so gross. Like, just give me one minute with this. I think, you know, if you're a gym girl, you're in the gym. It looks mad cute. Let's be. It looks cute. But when I see. And I said this in a recent video, when I see the girls wearing ball gowns with their Apple watch, I'm like, babe, what the f are you doing? No, like, I get it. You want to count those steps. But today, this dinner, this ball is not the time to be doing it. Just it's giving pedestrian and not in a good way.
- [36:03]
B
I've been at weddings before when people. Not the bride, thankfully, I haven't seen. But like people attending the wedding have their Apple watch on. I'm like, what is happening in the next three hours that is so important that you must have it tracked on your Apple watch? Like, just take it off.
- [36:16]
A
It just looks like a transformer on your wrist.
- [36:19]
B
Yes. Someone needs to figure that out. Like there's gotta be a better. Like maybe Rolex or somebody will. Will get in the game and figure out like a really.
- [36:27]
A
I think so.
- [36:28]
B
Because I don't necessarily need the notification on my wrist. Maybe like a couple things would be helpful. But as long as it's tracked on my phone, like, and I can look at it later, which is kind of why I went with Oura Ring. I don't need to know that someone's texting me on my wrist because my phone's always in my hand anyways, doesn't really matter.
- [36:46]
A
And let's be honest, you don't really want to text them back anyway. So it's just. It's just stress inducing.
- [36:52]
B
Yes, it really is. It is. Like, we don't need to be accessible 24 7. But yeah, the Watch just makes it.
- [36:59]
A
My thing is that I'm not a bloody hotline, so I don't need to be open 247 a day and leave me alone.
- [37:05]
B
It's so true. And I feel like that's something too, as I've gotten older that I've started to realize I always felt like I needed to be available 247 for everybody. And now I'm like, I'll get back to you in 48 business hours.
- [37:18]
A
Literally. No.
- [37:20]
B
So I mentioned that I can tell from your content that you're a high achiever. Like, it just comes across. And I mean that in such a good way.
- [37:29]
A
How can you tell, Irene?
- [37:30]
B
I don't know. It's just like, it's very. I don't know, you must get this all the time. It's obvious. Like, you can just tell you're. You're successful and it's of your own doing. So what, what, what, what are some tips for the young women listening that you have? Maybe, like, how we can put up some boundaries, put ourselves first, so that we can achieve all these things we have on our lists.
- [37:53]
A
Babe, I could write a whole book on that. But I'll try and keep it succinct. She should know. I'll try and keep it succinct. Touching on, first of all, boundaries. That was probably the most life shot, not even life shattering, but sort of the most profound thing that I Learned in my 20s. Because I feel like for a lot of us women, particularly, you know, black and brown women, there's no concept of boundaries going up. You know, we're so enmeshed with our families, and even our parents will tell us, how dare you have a boundary? Like, what the heck? Like, you're my child. Like, whatever. But boundaries was major. And I think once you learn that concept, you'll have better relationships, better friendships, you'll feel more fulfilled in your career. You won't feel as burnt out. Emphasis on that. You won't feel as burnt out. So that. That's really. That's really major for me. I think. What? I think there's a book. Oh, yes, there's a book that I swear by about boundaries. I'm gonna try and find it. That's it. It's called Set Boundaries, Find Peace, A Guide to Reclaiming Yourself. And it's by Nidra Glover, Tawab. This is also one that I read in my 20s. It was actually one of my patients who recommended it to me. This is why I bloody love our job. Honestly love my patients.
- [39:17]
B
It is so fun. The relationships are amazing.
- [39:20]
A
It's everything. And when she first recommended this book to me, I was like, love addiction. I'm a love addict. What are you talking about? That's very dramatic. But the book is called Facing Love Addiction by Pia Melody. Oh my God. This has been the only book that has actually given me a physical pain when reading it again. Crazy profound might be less profound for like, you know, the 20 year olds who grow up knowing about boundaries and love addiction and all this sort of very somewhat new age terminology. But that book can explain your entire existence in a couple of pages.
- [40:04]
B
Is it kind of like people pleasing? Is that what it's about? Yeah.
- [40:08]
A
So there's an element of that and it's about sort of different attachment styles and being specifically the anxiously attached and avoidant attached or you know, attachment and how the two tend to couple up actually and the sort of relationship dynamic that that creates. I think every woman needs to read it to be honest. It's that good.
- [40:29]
B
It sounds like it's probably valuable for most of us.
- [40:32]
A
And then lastly, sorry, can I say ah. And then one, one book for the babes that want to level up. I'm in the process of reading it now. It's, I think. What is it called? It's by Brianna West. It's a hundred, one hundred and one essays that will change the way you think. Fantastic book.
- [40:50]
B
We are going to link all those down below in the show notes so that people can check them out. And there's one little topic I want to cover before we move on to our kind of final questions and that is the menstrual cup. Because you have a ton of content. I still have not tried one. I'm like in the camp. I want to, but I'm in the camp of like it freaks me out a little bit. So open my mind, tell me why it's amazing. Why should we be using it? Any tips and tricks that you have?
- [41:16]
A
To be honest with you, I don't blame you that you're freaked out for the longest time. I was freaked out to this day. And it's so funny because you know, I know earlier on you were kind of like you've kind of become like a mental cup expert.
- [41:30]
B
Yeah, like an unexpected, maybe expected expert. Like you have such interesting content so it makes sense that you kind of want into that realm for me.
- [41:39]
A
No, babe, it's totally unexpected because even, even I'm surprised to be honest with you because as I said the longest time I was like, oh, this is gross. What the heck? This is Weird. Why would I be doing a gynecological exam on myself every month? Absolutely not. But I think, you know, for me the biggest sort of thing that moved the needle to convincing me to change over from sort of traditional sanitary products really just a toxicity risk. Thankfully, recent research has come out with regards to, you know, query LED and other such heavy metals being found in a lot of our popular sanitary products. Let's be honest, I wasn't surprised. I think the issue is a lot worse than what we think. And so, yeah, I think, you know, how do I phrase this? I'm trying to be very diplomatic and sensible here, but obviously more research needs to be done. But I do often wonder, you know, is there a correlation with regards to sanitary products and a lot of the sort of increased incidence of gynecological concerns that we're seeing, such as endometriosis and things like that, I do wonder. And so, yeah, so that was the biggest thing that convinced me that's not necessary to say that, you know, cups are absolutely non toxic. But maybe they are. But from my point of view personally, and my medical opinion is probably the better devil out of the two, to.
- [43:13]
B
Be honest with you. Right.
- [43:16]
A
Yeah. So that's one thing. And then the second thing is just it has just made my period so much easier. You know, I know what way. Well, it's actually made the bleed lighter and even I've had this conversation with my naturopathic doctor and she said that she's had the same thing from her female patients. It's made their periods lighter and also has reduced cramping and discomfort there. And also you're not changing it every three, four hours or even less. If you're a heavy bleeder, it's very much just twice a day, so at times you can forget that you're on. And also for me, a really good hack is that I tend to only change it in the shower, so.
- [44:02]
B
No, it's smart.
- [44:03]
A
So a lot of us, especially when we're bleeding, tend to have, you know, showers twice a day. Right. So just, you know, change it easy. Yeah, yeah, exactly. So, yeah, that's my point of view on Cup.
- [44:17]
B
Is there a brand that you. I know you've tried a few. Which one? Yeah, the most.
- [44:21]
A
So my favorite. Oh, what is my fave? I would say either the Pixie cup with the string, but then also I really like. Is it called Nixon? Sorry, the Pixie one I mentioned was. Is a disc. I don't know if I said cut, but it's a disc.
- [44:40]
B
Okay. Disc that's good to know.
- [44:42]
A
Yeah, I like the Nixit so N I X I t mix it cup. That one doesn't have a string. So yeah, if you're kind of fresh to the the cup game, maybe not, but yeah, love those two. In terms of brands, I hate just one brand particular. Moon cup. Good God. I know a lot of places sell it, but so hard. No, don't do it.
- [45:07]
B
Okay. And is. Is between a disc and a cup, does one hold more? Is that, is the cup more volume or are they just different shapes?
- [45:15]
A
More volume in the disc.
- [45:17]
B
More volume in the disc. Okay, that's good to know.
- [45:19]
A
But I'd say, you know what, either or whatever's most comfortable for you. Either or.
- [45:23]
B
Right. It's probably a lot of trial and error like just figuring out what works best for you, your body, what you're most comfortable with, trying a couple brands before you say whether or not you like it. Okay. These are great tips. I'm going to put those below too. And just a couple of wrap up questions. One of them being. This is always the toughest question. What is your holy grail skin care product? If you had to pick one.
- [45:43]
A
It's funny, a song that comes to mind when I get asked that question is Bitches Ain't Loyal.
- [45:51]
B
Right. Because it's probably, it probably changes, right? It does for me.
- [45:53]
A
I know that it honestly changes. But maybe if I just mention the product, the one product that I consistently purchased and even the fact that I purchase it with my money says a lot.
- [46:07]
B
I always say that too.
- [46:09]
A
Right. It's probably the Bioderma Sensor Biomysilla water.
- [46:14]
B
I love that product. I use it most nights. It's so good. I have a ton of my patients on it. Such an easy way to remove your makeup and sunscreen. Oh, I love it. It's such a great product.
- [46:25]
A
Even sometimes pre gym I use that as a cleanser.
- [46:28]
B
Yeah. I think it's a misconception. People think you can't leave it on the skin, but for most it's not going to be irritating if you leave it on. Yeah.
- [46:34]
A
Well, the funniest thing is I've worked a bioderm in the past. The funniest thing is that it was actually designed to be a waterless cleanser. The whole makeup removal thing came after.
- [46:43]
B
Interesting. Interesting. It's. It's one of my favorites. One of my favorites. Okay. Most underrated skin tip, I think.
- [46:52]
A
Could you call this a skin tip? How are they living? Honestly?
- [46:56]
B
Yeah, yeah, I'm with you. Just like the no smoking the low alcohol, the low sugar, if you can do it, it helps so much.
- [47:04]
A
Eating the rainbow. Emphasis on that point. Why? Yeah, eat the rainbow, girls. Come on.
- [47:10]
B
Yes. Yeah. So true. Easy fixes that are going to be great for your whole body, for your longevity for decades to come, but you're also going to get that skin benefit.
- [47:19]
A
Honestly, that's the hack.
- [47:21]
B
Yeah, I think so. Okay, and very last question. If you could tell your younger self one thing, what would it be?
- [47:27]
A
Oh, like in general, does it have to be skin focused?
- [47:29]
B
Nope. It can be anything at all.
- [47:31]
A
A lot of the stuff you're worrying about really doesn't matter.
- [47:34]
B
So, so, so true. And I wish. I mean, that's why this question is interesting, right? Because you always think, gosh, I wish I could just go back and say that. But the beauty of it is we can't. We had to learn it. Right? That's life.
- [47:44]
A
Absolutely.
- [47:45]
B
Yeah. Well, Dr. Iwoma, thank you so much for joining me today. I know that we have quite a time difference here in the uk, so I really appreciate you making it works because I know the audience is going to love it. So thank you so much.
- [47:57]
A
Pleasure, my love.
- [47:58]
B
Where can everyone find you on socials?
- [48:00]
A
Oh, where can they find me? So on Ticky Talk, you can find me on. @ skin doctor and then on Instagram, you can find me at my full name. It is a very long full name.
- [48:11]
B
And often we'll link it below.
- [48:13]
A
Yeah, link it below. And no, my name is Drew. Everyone thinks my name is Drew. It's not Drew, but yeah.
- [48:18]
B
Oh, that's so funny. Okay, thank you so much. We'll link both of those to your TikTok and your Instagram below, along with all the recommendations that you had here today. And thanks for joining us. We talked about so much good information on this episode. A lot of it unconventional, but so many of the points that she made are points that I have also come to realize in my career. So I feel like her and I are just on the exact same wavelength. And that's probably why this conversation just felt so good, felt so organic. I loved all of her tips and tricks. I'm going to leave all of her information below because truly, you guys, she is one of the best followers on social media. She's one of my personal favorite follows. I learned so much from her. She's influenced me to do and buy so many things, but not in that, like, traditional influencer way. Right. She is so open and honest. She will tell you exactly what she thinks about something, whether she likes it or whether she doesn't. So truly her content is is such a joy to consume. So I'm going to link all of it below. I hope that you enjoyed this week's episode and I will talk to you next week. Sky enthusiasts.