Podcast
The Skin Real ®
Hosted by DrMinaSkin · EN
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.
33episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Sculptra vs Radiesse: Which One Is Actually Right for Your Face?
3d ago00:25:17Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Skin Real, Dr. Mary Alice Mina breaks down two of the most talked-about biostimulators in aesthetic medicine — Sculptra and Radiesse — and explains why they are not interchangeable, despite both building collagen. She covers how each product works at a cellular level, what to realistically expect after treatment (including the swelling that disappears in the first week), how long results last, which areas each product is best suited for, and the real risks like nodule formation. Dr. Mina also discusses hyperdilute Radiesse, the "rule of fives" massage protocol for Sculptra, injection technique, and how to combine biostimulators with other treatments for maximum results. The episode ends with her honest take on which product she uses more in her own practice — and why the injector matters more than the product itself. In this episode: 0:00 — Sculptra vs Radiesse: Why This Question Matters 0:32 — What Are Biostimulators? 2:20 — Why People Are Moving Away from HA Fillers 3:38 — The Collagen Banking Era: Why Timing Matters 4:55 — How Sculptra Works 7:22 — Sculptra Results: What to Expect and How Long They Last 9:52 — The Unpredictability of Sculptra Response 11:12 — How Radiesse Works 13:18 — Hyperdilute Radiesse: What It Is and When to Use It 15:15 — Key Differences: Sculptra vs Radiesse Side by Side 17:00 — Best Treatment Areas for Each Product 18:35 — Nodule Risk and How to Manage It 20:25 — Injection Technique: Needle vs Cannula 21:30 — The Rule of Fives and Post-Care 22:45 — Reversibility and Starting Conservatively 23:25 — Which One Does Dr. Mina Actually Use? 24:00 — Combining Biostimulators with Other Treatments Want a deeper look? Watch the full episode on YouTube for a more visual experience of today’s discussion. This episode is best enjoyed on video—don’t miss out! Dr. Mina is a board-certified dermatologist on a mission to cut through the noise and help women feel amazing in their skin again. After decades in clinic, she has taken her expertise online to offer trusted, no-fluff education and skin strategies that actually work. No filters. No fear tactics. Just science, simplicity, and a little fun! Follow Dr. Mina here: Instagram: https://instagram.com/drminaskin Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drminaskin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskin LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drminaskin/ Visit The Skin Real Serenbe: https://theskinrealserenbe.com/ Book your Meet and Greet here 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.
Transcribe →5 Tretinoin Mistakes That Are Keeping You From Glowing Skin
1w ago00:18:18Tap to summarizeDr. Mary Alice Mina breaks down the top five tretinoin mistakes she sees her patients make — and admits she's made herself. From the dreaded purge to layering too many actives, she explains why so many people quit this powerhouse ingredient right before it starts working, and exactly how to use it correctly. She covers the difference between purging and irritation, the right amount to apply, how often to use it, why it's not a spot treatment, and which products to avoid pairing it with. Dr. Mina also answers a listener's question about her teeth — and shares her own Invisalign and retainer story. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who has tried tretinoin, given up on it, or is too scared to start. In This Episode: 0:00 — Welcome to The Skin Real 0:45 — What Is Tretinoin and Why Dermatologists Love It 3:30 — The Top 5 Tretinoin Mistakes 4:15 — Mistake #1: Stopping During the Purge 7:10 — Mistake #2: Using Too Much Product 8:45 — Mistake #3: Using It Too Frequently 10:30 — Mistake #4: Treating It Like a Spot Treatment 11:30 — Mistake #5: Layering With Other Actives 14:00 — The Sandwich Method Explained 15:45 — Recap of All 5 Mistakes 16:30 — Listener Q&A: Are Your Teeth Real? 18:00 — Final Thoughts and Where to Find Dr. Mina Want a deeper look? Watch the full episode on YouTube for a more visual experience of today’s discussion. This episode is best enjoyed on video—don’t miss out! 🔗 Scan your skin with my AI app: https://realskin.lovable.app 📱Download The Skin Real app. Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-skin-real/id6748411628 Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=vyten.theskinreal&hl=en_US 🔗 Find a board-certified dermatologist near you: https://www.aad.org Dr. Mina is a board-certified dermatologist on a mission to cut through the noise and help women feel amazing in their skin again. After decades in clinic, she has taken her expertise online to offer trusted, no-fluff education and skin strategies that actually work. No filters. No fear tactics. Just science, simplicity, and a little fun! Follow Dr. Mina here: Instagram: https://instagram.com/drminaskin Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drminaskin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskin LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drminaskin/ Visit The Skin Real Serenbe: https://theskinrealserenbe.com/ Book your Meet and Greet here 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.
Transcribe →8 Steps to Fix Your Damaged Skin Barrier (No New Products Needed)
2w ago00:23:09Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Dr. Mary Alice Mina breaks down everything you need to know about your skin barrier — what it is, how you know it's damaged, and exactly what's causing the damage. She then walks through eight practical, zero-cost steps to repair it fast. From doing a hard skincare reset to applying moisturizer the right way, Dr. Mina cuts through the noise and reminds listeners that when it comes to a damaged skin barrier, less is always more. In this episode: 0:00 — Introduction & Why the Skin Barrier Is Trending 1:45 — What Is the Skin Barrier? (Stratum Corneum Explained) 4:00 — Signs Your Skin Barrier Is Damaged 6:00 — What's Causing the Damage 9:15 — Step 1: Stop All Irritants — Do a Hard Reset 11:00 — Step 2: Simplify Your Routine 12:30 — Step 3: Change How You Cleanse 14:15 — Step 4: Apply Moisturizer Strategically 16:00 — Step 5: Use Gentle Application Techniques 17:15 — Step 6: Limit Water Exposure 18:30 — Step 7: Protect Your Skin (UV + Physical Barriers) 20:15 — Step 8: Give It Time 21:30 — Common Mistakes That Slow Healing 22:15 — Final Takeaway + Resources Want a deeper look? Watch the full episode on YouTube for a more visual experience of today’s discussion. This episode is best enjoyed on video—don’t miss out! 🔗 Scan your skin with my AI app: https://realskin.lovable.app 📱Download The Skin Real app. Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-skin-real/id6748411628 Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=vyten.theskinreal&hl=en_US 🔗 Find a board-certified dermatologist near you: https://www.aad.org Dr. Mina is a board-certified dermatologist on a mission to cut through the noise and help women feel amazing in their skin again. After decades in clinic, she has taken her expertise online to offer trusted, no-fluff education and skin strategies that actually work. No filters. No fear tactics. Just science, simplicity, and a little fun! Follow Dr. Mina here: Instagram: https://instagram.com/drminaskin Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drminaskin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskin LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drminaskin/ Visit The Skin Real Serenbe: https://theskinrealserenbe.com/ Book your Meet and Greet here
Transcribe →Topical Estrogen on Your Face: What a Dermatologist Actually Thinks
3w ago00:23:33Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Dr. Mary Alice Mina breaks down one of her most frequently asked questions: should you be putting topical estrogen on your face? She explains what estrogen loss actually does to the skin during perimenopause and menopause — from collagen collapse to barrier breakdown — and why these changes are hormonal, not just "normal aging." Dr. Mina walks through the two main forms of topical estrogen (estriol and estradiol), what makes them different, and which one is more commonly used for facial skin. She also covers who should be cautious, including those with melasma or a history of estrogen-sensitive cancers, and makes the case for why vaginal estrogen deserves to be the first conversation before any discussion of facial application. Practical, evidence-informed, and refreshingly honest, this episode helps midlife women cut through the fear and make smarter decisions about topical estrogen. In This Episode: 0:00 — Is Topical Estrogen Right for Your Skin? 0:35 — Why So Many Women Are Asking About This 1:22 — What This Episode Will Cover 2:10 — Why Menopause Changes Your Skin So Dramatically 4:35 — What Is Actually Happening Inside Your Skin 5:18 — Collagen Loss and the 30% Drop 7:55 — Estrogen Is Finally Having Its Moment 9:20 — What the Research Does and Doesn't Tell Us 9:38 — Benefits of Topical Estrogen 10:28 — 5-Day Perimenopause Challenge 11:25 — Estriol vs. Estradiol: Knowing the Difference 13:40 — Why Vaginal Estrogen Comes First 15:20 — Vaginal Estrogen Can Be Life-Saving 16:35 — Caveats and Who Should Be Cautious 16:50 — Topical Estrogen and Melasma 17:52 — What About Breast Cancer Risk? 19:45 — Dr. Mina's Real Thoughts on Topical Estrogen 20:30 — Sun Protection Still Comes First 21:40 — Is Topical Estrogen Right for You? 23:05 — What's Coming Next + How to Stay Connected Want a deeper look? Watch the full episode on YouTube for a more visual experience of today’s discussion. This episode is best enjoyed on video—don’t miss out! 🔗 Join the 5-Day Perimenopause Challenge: https://hi.theskinreal.com/5-day-perimenopause-challenge 📱Download The Skin Real app! Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-skin-real/id6748411628 Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=vyten.theskinreal&hl=en_US 🔔 Follow for weekly evidence-based skin advice from a dermatologist you can actually trust. 📩 Find a board-certified dermatologist near you: https://www.aad.org 🛍️ Shop Dr. Mina's recommended skincare on Regimen Pro: https://regimenpro.com/pages/practice-homepage/19cad6bd-63ea-4c6d-b2ec-64c06c3f7a6b Dr. Mina is a board-certified dermatologist on a mission to cut through the noise and help women feel amazing in their skin again. After decades in clinic, she has taken her expertise online to offer trusted, no-fluff education and skin strategies that actually work. No filters. No fear tactics. Just science, simplicity, and a little fun! Follow Dr. Mina here: Instagram: https://instagram.com/drminaskin Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drminaskin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskin LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drminaskin/ Visit The Skin Real Serenbe: https://theskinrealserenbe.com/ Book your Meet and Greet here 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.
Transcribe →LED Face Masks: What Actually Works, What's a Waste of Money, and How to Choose the Right One
Apr 2500:28:59Tap to summarizeLED face masks are having a major moment — but are they actually worth the hype? In this episode, Dr. Mary Alice Mina breaks down the real science behind LED light therapy and why so many people are spending hundreds of dollars on devices that simply don't work. She explains the concept of photobiomodulation, which wavelengths of light actually have clinical evidence behind them (blue, red, and near-infrared), and which colors are total gimmicks. Dr. Mina walks through exactly what to look for when buying an LED mask — from FDA clearance to bulb distribution to device design — and who is (and isn't) a good candidate. She also covers important safety considerations including eye protection, melasma triggers, and pregnancy, and shares realistic expectations for results. If you've ever wondered whether an LED mask is worth the investment, this episode gives you everything you need to make an informed decision. In this episode: 0:00 LED Masks Are Everywhere But Most People Are Using Them Wrong 0:30 Why Dermatologists Take Light Therapy Seriously 2:10 The Real Reason You're Not Seeing Results 2:55 What Is Photobiomodulation 4:40 The Wavelengths That Actually Work 5:05 Blue Light and Acne 5:40 Red Light and Anti-Aging 6:15 Near Infrared and Deep Tissue Repair 6:50 Why Combination Therapy Works Best 7:40 Match Your Device to Your Skin Goals 8:40 Honest Expectations What LED Therapy Can and Cannot Do 9:50 How to Choose the Right LED Mask 10:05 Look for Specific Wavelengths on the Packaging 10:45 Why FDA Clearance Matters 11:30 Device Design and Why Wands Don't Cut It 13:10 Bulb Distribution and Adjustable Fit 14:20 What Will You Be Doing During Your Session 15:05 Eye Protection Do Not Skip This 16:30 Gimmick Colors to Avoid 17:20 Is LED Therapy Safe 18:40 Eye Safety and Retina Damage Risk 19:40 LED and Melasma What You Need to Know 21:20 Can You Use LED Therapy During Pregnancy 21:50 What Results Can You Realistically Expect 24:30 Consistency Is Everything 25:30 Who Is the Right Candidate for an LED Mask 27:20 Do LED Devices Actually Work Dr Minas Final Verdict 27:55 Brands Worth Looking At Want a deeper look? Watch the full episode on YouTube for a more visual experience of today’s discussion. This episode is best enjoyed on video—don’t miss out! 💡 Devices Mentioned in this episode: LightStim device: https://www.lightstim.com Currentbody Skin LED Light Therapy Mask: https://www.currentbody.com Omnilux LED Mask: https://www.omniluxled.com Qure mask (40% off with this link!): https://airhealth.com/DrMinaSkin 📱Download The Skin Real app! Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-skin-real/id6748411628 Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=vyten.theskinreal&hl=en_US 🔔 Follow for weekly evidence-based skin advice from a dermatologist you can actually trust. 📩 Find a board-certified dermatologist near you: https://www.aad.org 🛍️ Shop Dr. Mina's recommended skincare on Regimen Pro: https://regimenpro.com/pages/practice-homepage/19cad6bd-63ea-4c6d-b2ec-64c06c3f7a6b Dr. Mina is a board-certified dermatologist on a mission to cut through the noise and help women feel amazing in their skin again. After decades in clinic, she has taken her expertise online to offer trusted, no-fluff education and skin strategies that actually work. No filters. No fear tactics. Just science, simplicity, and a little fun! Follow Dr. Mina here: Instagram: https://instagram.com/drminaskin Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drminaskin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskin LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drminaskin/ Visit The Skin Real Serenbe: https://theskinrealserenbe.com/ Book your Meet and Greet here 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.
Transcribe →Bed Bugs: What Every Traveler Needs to Know Before Their Next Trip
Apr 1800:15:17Tap to summarizeBed bugs. Just the phrase is enough to make your skin crawl — but Dr. Mary Alice Mina is breaking down everything you actually need to know about these tiny, relentless pests. In this episode of The Skin Real, she covers what bed bugs are, how they spread, why not everyone reacts to bites the same way, and — most importantly — how to protect yourself before, during, and after travel. You'll learn exactly how to inspect a hotel room like a pro, what to do if you think you brought them home, and how to treat the itchy welts on your skin while you deal with the infestation. Gross? A little. Essential? Absolutely. In This Episode: 0:00 — Bed Bugs Can Happen to Anyone, Anywhere — Even at a 5-Star Hotel 1:10 — What You Will Learn 2:00 — What Bed Bugs Are and What They Look Like 3:15 — Why You Never Feel the Bite 4:00 — How Bed Bug Bites Appear on Skin 5:20 — Why Everyone Reacts Differently 6:30 — How Bed Bugs Spread Through Travel 7:30 — How to Inspect Your Hotel Room 9:15 — What to Do When You Get Home 11:00 — Do Bed Bugs Carry Disease? 12:00 — How to Treat Bed Bug Bites on Your Skin 13:45 — When to See a Dermatologist 14:30 — Prevention Is Everything 15:05 — Final Thoughts and Sign-Off Want a deeper look? Watch the full episode on YouTube for a more visual experience of today’s discussion. This episode is best enjoyed on video—don’t miss out! 📱Download The Skin Real app! Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-skin-real/id6748411628 Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=vyten.theskinreal&hl=en_US 🔔 Follow for weekly evidence-based skin advice from a dermatologist you can actually trust. 📩 Find a board-certified dermatologist near you: https://www.aad.org 🛍️ Shop Dr. Mina's recommended skincare on Regimen Pro: https://regimenpro.com/pages/practice-homepage/19cad6bd-63ea-4c6d-b2ec-64c06c3f7a6b 🌐 More skin info: https://www.theskinreal.com Dr. Mina is a board-certified dermatologist on a mission to cut through the noise and help women feel amazing in their skin again. After decades in clinic, she has taken her expertise online to offer trusted, no-fluff education and skin strategies that actually work. No filters. No fear tactics. Just science, simplicity, and a little fun! Follow Dr. Mina here: Instagram: https://instagram.com/drminaskin Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drminaskin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskin LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drminaskin/ Visit The Skin Real Serenbe:https://theskinrealserenbe.com/ Book your Meet and Greet here 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.
Transcribe →The Truth About Skin Tags — What They Mean, What to Do & What to Never Try at Home
Apr 1100:19:56Tap to summarizeYou've probably Googled "how to remove a skin tag at home" at least once. Before you reach for the dental floss, you need to hear this. In this episode of The Skin Real, Dr. Mary Alice Mina covers everything you need to know about skin tags — from what they actually are and why you get them, to what they might be revealing about your metabolic health, and how she safely removes them in her office. In This Episode: 0:00 — Is That Dental Floss Around Your Skin Tag? 0:45 — What Are Skin Tags? 2:00 — Why You Get Skin Tags and Where They Show Up 3:30 — The Genetics Behind Skin Tags 4:30 — Skin Tags and Metabolic Health: The Connection You Need to Know 6:15 — Can You Prevent Skin Tags? 7:30 — At-Home Removal Methods — And Why They're Risky 9:30 — When Skin Tag Removal Gets Dangerous 10:30 — Subscribe to The Skin Real 11:00 — Ligation vs. Destruction: The Two Treatment Approaches 12:15 — When Skin Tags Aren't Actually Skin Tags 14:00 — The Harvard Story: When a Skin Tag Was Melanoma 15:00 — How Dr. Mina Removes Skin Tags in Her Office 16:30 — Post-Removal Care: How to Heal Without Scarring 17:30 — Does Insurance Cover Skin Tag Removal? 18:15 — Final Thoughts and Share This Episode Want a deeper look? Watch the full episode on YouTube for a more visual experience of today’s discussion. This episode is best enjoyed on video—don’t miss out! 📲 Download The Skin Real app for science backed routines, dermatologist guidance, and product recommendations you can trust. https://linktr.ee/theskinreal 🔔 Follow for weekly evidence-based skin advice from a dermatologist you can actually trust. 📩 Find a board-certified dermatologist near you: https://www.aad.org 🛍️ Shop Dr. Mina's recommended skincare on Regimen Pro: https://regimenpro.com/pages/practice-homepage/19cad6bd-63ea-4c6d-b2ec-64c06c3f7a6b 🌐 More skin info: https://www.theskinreal.com Dr. Mina is a board-certified dermatologist on a mission to cut through the noise and help women feel amazing in their skin again. After decades in clinic, she has taken her expertise online to offer trusted, no-fluff education and skin strategies that actually work. No filters. No fear tactics. Just science, simplicity, and a little fun! Follow Dr. Mina here: Instagram: https://instagram.com/drminaskin Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drminaskin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskin LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drminaskin/ Visit The Skin Real Serenbe: https://theskinrealserenbe.com/ Book your Meet and Greet here 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.
Transcribe →Under-Eye Bags, Dark Circles & Puffiness: What Actually Works, According to a Dermatologist
Apr 400:22:35Tap to summarizeThink you know what's causing your under-eye bags? You might be wrong — and that's exactly why nothing you've tried has worked. In this solo episode, Dr. Mary Alice Mina breaks down the four distinct types of under-eye concerns: puffiness, fat pad herniation, volume loss/hollowing, and dark circles from pigment or vascularity. She explains how to identify which type you're dealing with, because the biggest mistake most people make is treating the wrong problem. Dr. Mina walks through exactly what works for each type — from caffeine eye products and cold therapy for puffiness, to lower blepharoplasty for true fat pad herniation, to tear trough filler and biostimulants for hollowing, to vascular lasers and hydroquinone for dark circles. She also covers what to avoid, including why Botox around the eyes can backfire for puffiness sufferers and why filler can make fat pad herniation worse. Whether you've been pouring money into eye creams that aren't doing anything or you're considering an in-office procedure, this episode gives you the clear, evidence-based roadmap you've been looking for. In this episode: 0:00 — Why You're Wasting Money on Eye Creams 1:00 — The Biggest Mistake People Make with Under-Eye Concerns 2:10 — Type 1: Puffiness 4:00 — Type 2: Fat Pad Herniation 6:15 — Type 3: Hollowing and Volume Loss 8:10 — Type 4: Dark Circles 9:45 — How to Treat Puffiness at Home 11:15 — Lifestyle Modifications and Allergy Tips for Puffy Eyes 12:30 — In-Office Treatments for Puffiness and Botox Warning 13:45 — The Truth About Fat Pad Herniation 15:30 — Fillers and Fat Pad Herniation 16:45 — Treating Under-Eye Hollowing 18:30 — When Filler Goes Wrong 19:45 — PRP, PRF and Fat Transfer for Volume Loss 20:50 — How to Treat Dark Circles 22:00 — Final Thoughts Want a deeper look? Watch the full episode on YouTube for a more visual experience of today’s discussion. This episode is best enjoyed on video—don’t miss out! 🔔 Follow for weekly evidence-based skin advice from a dermatologist you can actually trust. 📩 Find a board-certified dermatologist near you: https://www.aad.org 🛍️ Shop Dr. Mina's recommended skincare on Regimen Pro: https://regimenpro.com/pages/practice-homepage/19cad6bd-63ea-4c6d-b2ec-64c06c3f7a6b 🌐 More skin info: https://www.theskinreal.com Dr. Mina is a board-certified dermatologist on a mission to cut through the noise and help women feel amazing in their skin again. After decades in clinic, she has taken her expertise online to offer trusted, no-fluff education and skin strategies that actually work. No filters. No fear tactics. Just science, simplicity, and a little fun! Follow Dr. Mina here: Instagram: https://instagram.com/drminaskin Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drminaskin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskin LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drminaskin/ Visit The Skin Real Serenbe: https://theskinrealserenbe.com/ Book your Meet and Greet here 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.
Transcribe →NAD⁺ Skincare Is Trending— Is It The Real Deal or Just Hype?
Mar 2800:41:42Tap to summarize***Apple audio issue fixed! NAD is having a major moment — from IV drips and supplements to wellness clinics and now skincare. But is the science real, or is it just the next CBD? In this episode, Dr. Mary Alice Mina sits down with Melisse Shaban, CEO of Aramore and veteran beauty executive (Revlon, Aveda, The Beauty Shop), to break down exactly what NAD is, why your skin cells need it, and whether the new wave of NAD skincare products is worth your money. They dig into the cellular biology of aging skin, why most moisturizers are just sitting on the surface, and what it actually takes for an ingredient to penetrate to the basal layer where the real work happens. Melisse also shares how Harvard and MIT research led to Aramore's formulation, how to spot faux players in the NAD skincare space, and why she believes NAD precursors, retinol, and sunscreen are the only three non-negotiables in any skincare routine. The conversation takes a fascinating turn into the future of beauty — from pharma's growing role in skincare to GLP-1s, inflammation management, and what's really next for aging women. Plus: a candid, unexpected conversation about death, dignity, and the industry no one is building yet. In This Episode: 0:00 – NAD Is Everywhere: Real Science or Clever Marketing? 1:06 – Meet Melisse Shaban: From Revlon to the New Frontier of Skin Health 2:57 – Aging Starts Earlier Than You Think: Collagen Loss in Your 20s 4:00 – What Is NAD? A Plain-English Breakdown 5:36 – Why Your Skin Cells Can't Use Sugar or Protein (But Love Fat) 6:15 – The 8 Layers of Skin & What Happens as They Age 8:06 – Harvard Research That Changed How We Think About Skin Aging 10:17 – Why Most Skincare Just Sits on the Surface 11:52 – Your Skin Shows It First: What Dermatologists See Before Doctors Do 13:26 – Why You Won't See Results Overnight — And Why That's Okay 15:48 – NAD vs. Retinol: Are They Competing or Complementary? 17:41 – Does NAD Stimulate Collagen? (The Fibroblast Connection) 18:22 – How to Spot Fake NAD Products (And What to Actually Look For) 20:49 – "Clean Beauty" Is Table Stakes Now — Here's What Matters More 22:33 – Real Science vs. Marketing: Why R&D Is Finally Coming to Skincare 24:29 – The Longevity World's Reputation Problem (And NAD's Connection to It) 26:13 – Supplement vs. Topical: Do You Need Both? 28:54 – Sublingual, Drips & Future Delivery Systems 30:00 – When Should You Start Using NAD? (Earlier Than You'd Guess) 31:30 – Turning 40 & Waking Up: Steering the Ship Before It's Too Late 33:10 – Where Beauty Is Headed in the Next 5–10 Years 36:01 – The Next Big Industry Nobody Is Talking About: Death 38:25 – Where to Find Aramore + The Kennedy Family Connection 39:54 – Wrap-Up & Final Thoughts Want a deeper look? Watch the full episode on YouTube for a more visual experience of today’s discussion. This episode is best enjoyed on video—don’t miss out! About the Guest: Melisse Shaban is a seasoned entrepreneur and brand builder with extensive leadership experience across the health, wellness, and beauty sectors. She is the Founder of Virtue Labs, where she transformed breakthrough wound-healing technology into a $50M+ premium hair care brand honored with more than 60 industry awards and recognized by Fast Company as one of the World’s Most Innovative Companies of 2022. Today, she serves as CEO of Aramore, a longevity science company pioneering innovations in cellular health to advance healthy aging through skincare and supplements. Earlier in her career, she led the acquisitions, growth, and sale of Frederic Fekkai and Pout Cosmetics, as well as the acquisitions of NIA-24 and StriVectin, and held executive roles at Aveda and The Body Shop. She currently serves on the boards of Salon Lofts, Willow Innovations/Elvie, and several nonprofits, including Duke Raleigh Hospital, Ravenscroft School, and Point Foundation. In 2021, she was named to Forbes’ inaugural “50 Over 50” list. Connect with Melisse Shaban: Website: https://aramoreskincare.com/THESKINREAL Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melisseshaban Dr. Mina is a board-certified dermatologist on a mission to cut through the noise and help women feel amazing in their skin again. After decades in clinic, she has taken her expertise online to offer trusted, no-fluff education and skin strategies that actually work. No filters. No fear tactics. Just science, simplicity, and a little fun! Follow Dr. Mina here: Instagram: https://instagram.com/drminaskin Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drminaskin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskin LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drminaskin/ Visit The Skin Real Serenbe: https://theskinrealserenbe.com/ Book your Meet and Greet here 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.
Transcribe →GLP-1 Side Effects No One Talks About. Hair Loss, Skin Changes, and What To Do
Mar 2100:21:30Tap to summarizeIf you are using a GLP-1 medication and noticing hair shedding, brittle nails, or dull, dry skin, your body is signaling a nutrient gap. In this episode, Dr. Mary Alice Mina breaks down what is really happening beneath the surface and why these changes often appear before lab results do. She explains how appetite suppression can lead to low protein, vitamin deficiencies, and dehydration, all of which directly impact your skin, hair, and nails. You will learn the key deficiencies to watch for, including B12, iron, folate, and vitamin D, and the exact signs your body shows when levels drop. Dr. Mina also explains why protein intake, fiber, and hydration are critical while on GLP-1 medications, especially for preventing hair loss, muscle loss, and skin laxity. This episode gives you a clear, practical framework to protect your results, support your body, and avoid the most common mistakes people make while using GLP-1s. 📲 Download The Skin Real app for science backed routines, dermatologist guidance, and product recommendations you can trust. https://linktr.ee/theskinreal In this episode: 0:00 The Warning Signs You Should Not Ignore 1:10 Why GLP-1 Medications Affect Skin, Hair, and Nails 2:45 The Real Problem. Nutrient Deficiency 4:20 Early Signs Your Body Is Lacking Nutrients 6:00 Vitamin B12 Deficiency and Skin Changes 8:00 Iron Deficiency. Hair Loss and Nail Changes 10:10 Folate Deficiency and Cell Turnover 11:45 Vitamin D. The Overlooked Factor 13:40 Protein Intake and Muscle Loss Risks 15:50 Fiber and Gut Health Connection 17:20 Hydration and Why It Matters More Than You Think 18:50 What Labs To Check and When 20:10 How To Protect Your Skin, Hair, and Results 21:00 Final Takeaways and Next Steps Want a deeper look? Watch the full episode on YouTube for a more visual experience of today’s discussion. This episode is best enjoyed on video—don’t miss out! Alzheimer’s Association 2026 Dancing Stars of Atlanta Donate to Vote: https://act.alz.org/site/TR/Gala/GA-Georgia?pg=personal&px=25632271&fr_id=19246 Dr. Mina is a board-certified dermatologist on a mission to cut through the noise and help women feel amazing in their skin again. After decades in clinic, she has taken her expertise online to offer trusted, no-fluff education and skin strategies that actually work. No filters. No fear tactics. Just science, simplicity, and a little fun! Follow Dr. Mina here: Instagram: https://instagram.com/drminaskin Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drminaskin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskin LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drminaskin/ Visit The Skin Real Serenbe: https://theskinrealserenbe.com/ Book your Meet and Greet here 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.
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