#skinthusiast: The Podcast – Episode Summary

Title: Susan Yara on Cosmetic Procedures, Regrets, & Facials That Can Actually Change Your Skin
Host: Amy Koberling
Guest: Susan Yara
Release Date: November 19, 2024

Introduction

In this engaging episode of #skinthusiast: The Podcast, host Amy Koberling welcomes returning guest Susan Yara to delve deep into the world of cosmetic procedures, personal regrets, and transformative facials. Building on their popular first part, Amy and Susan aim to provide listeners with candid insights and practical advice drawn from Susan's extensive experience in the beauty industry.

Discussion on Cosmetic Procedures

Susan Yara opens up about her journey with various cosmetic procedures, emphasizing the importance of individuality over conforming to prevalent beauty standards.

• Dissolving Fillers:
  Susan shares, “I don't want to look like everybody... This is actually what really spurred me to start dissolving my filler” (00:00), highlighting her desire to maintain a unique appearance rather than adopting the often homogenized “Kim Kardashian look” seen commonly in the industry.

• Trap Talks (Barbie Botox):
  Susan discusses her experience with Trap Talks, a trend aimed at slimming the neck and shoulder area.

  “I felt like I was looking not better, I was looking worse... So that’s what made me not go back and do it.” (02:31)
  Amy adds her perspective on the evolving dynamics of neuromodulators, praising those who can train their muscles naturally to maintain expressiveness without over-reliance on injections (03:52).

• PDO Threads:
  Susan recounts her positive experience with PDO threads, managed by Vanessa Lee in Los Angeles.

  “I did a lot of research on PDO threads and who were the people at the forefront of it... I have an amazing experience.” (04:35)
  They discuss the realistic expectations required for such procedures to ensure satisfaction and longevity of results (06:05).

• Lip Fillers:
  Susan reflects on her journey with lip fillers, from initial overuse to a more refined approach focusing on shape over volume.

  “Shape is more important than volume when it comes to lip filler.” (07:07)
  She details the challenges of dissolving excess fillers and the emotional and physical discomfort involved, emphasizing the importance of moderation and expertise.

• Under Eye Fillers and Melasma:
  Susan discusses her regrets with tear trough fillers, which exacerbated her melasma, and her subsequent decision to dissolve them.

  “I was probably two years postpartum... I didn’t need it.” (11:28)
  They explore the complications of overusing hyaluronic acid fillers, especially in delicate areas like under the eyes, and the benefits of bio stimulators like Renuva for natural-looking results (21:53).

• Facial Filter Fat Transfer:
  Susan shares her brief experience with fat transfer procedures, noting their temporary nature compared to fillers.

  “It was like a full melt... it really went away.” (20:58)
  This leads to a broader discussion on non-surgical alternatives and the psychological aspects of cosmetic enhancements.

• Facelifts and Surgical Interventions:
  The conversation turns to the fears and realities of surgical facelifts. Susan emphasizes her reluctance to undergo such invasive procedures, preferring less permanent and more natural approaches.

  “I'm gonna avoid a facelift as long as I possibly can.” (24:35)
  They discuss the potential complications and the importance of considering long-term effects before opting for surgery.

Melasma Management

Both Amy and Susan, who suffer from melasma, share their strategies for managing this challenging skin condition.

• Holistic Approach:
  Susan stresses the importance of addressing underlying hormonal issues, particularly thyroid health, to manage melasma effectively.

  “I have Hashimoto's... thyroid hormones can definitely trigger your melasma.” (38:25)

• Cosmelan Treatment:
  Susan describes her arduous experience with the Cosmelan peel, detailing its intensive regimen and the significant downtime involved.

  “It’s an intense peel... you have to wear that.” (40:41)
  Despite the challenges, she acknowledges its effectiveness in reducing melasma when combined with other treatments like tranexamic acid.

• Pre and Post-Treatment Care:
  Emphasizing the necessity of pre-treating the skin with hydroquinone, Susan explains how it mitigates adverse effects from peels and lasers.

  “You need to pre treat in those cases.” (43:58)
  Amy concurs, highlighting the inflammatory component of melasma and the need for comprehensive skin care strategies.

Transformative Facials

The episode underscores the impact of specialized facials in achieving significant skin improvements.

• Boot Camp Facials:
  Susan recounts her experience with intensive facial treatments from Vanessa Hernandez, which successfully cleared her cystic acne after years of ineffective treatments.

  “It was like truly a boot camp for your face.” (33:41)
  Amy praises the effectiveness of such targeted facials in addressing persistent skin issues.

• Hydrafacial and Lymphatic Drainage:
  Both hosts advocate for regular hydrafacials and lymphatic drainage massages, noting their benefits in maintaining skin health and reducing inflammation.

  “I’m a big proponent of lymphatic drainage.” (35:09)
  They discuss integrating these treatments into regular skincare routines for sustained benefits.

Advice for Young Women and Skincare Tips

Susan offers thoughtful advice for younger women considering cosmetic procedures and shares her most underrated skincare tip.

• Caution with Cosmetic Procedures:
  Susan urges young women to tread carefully with cosmetic enhancements, emphasizing thorough research and realistic expectations.

  “Always know that you might change your face. Not for the better.” (48:45)
  She advises embracing natural beauty and being mindful of the long-term implications of cosmetic interventions.

• Hydration as a Core Skincare Principle:
  Highlighting hydration, Susan explains the difference between moisturizers and water-based products, advocating for the former to retain moisture and achieve youthful, plump skin.

  “Hydration is like a glass of water for your skin.” (50:45)
  Amy echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a balanced and hydrated skincare routine.

Concluding Thoughts

In wrapping up, Amy and Susan reflect on the importance of self-love and individuality in the beauty journey. Susan emphasizes the significance of loving oneself without relying solely on cosmetic procedures to define beauty.

“Love yourself for who you are.” (50:40)

Amy encourages listeners to adopt sustainable and effective skincare habits, reinforcing the value of hydration and mindful cosmetic choices.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Susan on Avoiding Homogeneity in Beauty:

  “I don’t want to look like everybody... This is actually what really spurred me to start dissolving my filler.” (00:00)

• Amy on Cosmetic Trends:

  “Dermatologists, beauty and wellness experts, brand founders, and thought leaders share their tips and tricks.” (00:27)

• Susan on Lip Fillers:

  “Shape is more important than volume when it comes to lip filler.” (07:07)

• Discussion on Facelifts:

  “I’m gonna avoid a facelift as long as I possibly can.” (24:35)

• Melasma Management:

  “I have Hashimoto’s... thyroid hormones can definitely trigger your melasma.” (38:25)

• Hydration as a Skincare Tip:

  “Hydration is like a glass of water for your skin.” (50:45)

Key Takeaways

1. Individuality Over Trends: Emphasizing the importance of maintaining a unique appearance rather than conforming to widespread beauty trends.
2. Cautious Approach to Cosmetic Procedures: Advising thorough research and realistic expectations before opting for any cosmetic treatments.
3. Effective Management of Skin Conditions: Highlighting the significance of addressing underlying health issues and adopting comprehensive skincare routines.
4. Importance of Hydration: Underscoring hydration as a fundamental aspect of skincare for maintaining youthful and healthy skin.
5. Holistic Skincare Practices: Advocating for regular facials, lymphatic drainage massages, and the use of both in-office and at-home treatments for optimal skin health.

This episode offers a wealth of knowledge for beauty enthusiasts, skincare novices, and professionals alike, providing a balanced perspective on the benefits and drawbacks of various cosmetic procedures and skincare practices. Susan Yara’s candid experiences and Amy Koberling’s expert guidance make for a compelling and informative listen.