Skinfluence with Dr. Dustin Portela

Pores are one of the most talked-about topics in skincare, and one of the most misunderstood. In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee break down what pores actually are, why they exist, and why the idea of "shrinking" them isn't as straightforward as social media makes it seem. They walk through the biology behind pores, including their role in oil production, skin health, and barrier function, and why they're something you need, not something to erase. The conversation digs into what really determines pore size, from genetics and hormones to oil production and aging. They also explain why pores can appear larger over time and what factors like sun damage, clogged pores, and collagen loss have to do with it. Dustin and Austin cut through the noise on popular trends like "glass skin" and pore-minimizing products, explaining what actually works versus what is just marketing. They also cover how to improve the appearance of pores the right way, including ingredients like retinoids and salicylic acid, proper cleansing, and when in-office treatments may make sense. If you've ever felt like you're chasing smaller pores and not seeing results, this episode will reset expectations and give you a smarter, more effective path forward. Product of the Week Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant A cult-favorite for a reason. This salicylic acid exfoliant helps unclog pores, reduce buildup, and smooth skin texture over time without being overly harsh when used correctly. Differin Gel (Adapalene 0.1%) A powerful over-the-counter retinoid that helps regulate cell turnover, prevent clogged pores, and improve overall skin texture with consistent use. Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportela YouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDoc YouTube (Educational): @drdustinportela Pinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac

Rosacea is one of the most common conditions seen in dermatology, and one of the most misunderstood. In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee break down exactly what rosacea is, why it shows up, and why it can look completely different from one person to another. From persistent redness and flushing to acne-like breakouts and even thickened skin on the nose, they walk through the different types and how to recognize them. They dive into what is actually happening beneath the skin, including inflammation, blood vessel changes, and even the role of Demodex mites. The conversation also covers one of the most important parts of managing rosacea: identifying triggers. From sun exposure and heat to alcohol, caffeine, spicy foods, and exercise, they explain why flare-ups happen and how to better control them without over-restricting your lifestyle. Dustin and Austin also clear up one of the biggest mistakes patients make: treating rosacea like acne. They explain why harsh scrubs, over-exfoliation, and aggressive skincare routines often make things worse, and how focusing on barrier repair, gentle products, and consistency can make a major difference. On the treatment side, they walk through everything from over-the-counter options like niacinamide and azelaic acid to prescription topicals, oral medications, and when more advanced options like lasers or low-dose Accutane come into play. They also explain why rosacea is a chronic condition, what realistic expectations should look like, and how to maintain long-term control. If you struggle with redness, flushing, or breakouts that never quite respond to typical acne treatments, this episode will help you understand what is really going on and how to manage it effectively. Products of the Week Paula's Choice 10% Azelaic Acid Booster A great starting point for rosacea-prone skin, especially if you're dealing with redness and acne-like bumps. Azelaic acid helps calm inflammation, improve tone, and is one of the most versatile ingredients for rosacea. EltaMD UV Skin Recovery A green-tinted sunscreen that not only protects against UV exposure but also helps neutralize visible redness. It is lightweight, hydrating, and designed specifically for sensitive, rosacea-prone skin. Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportela YouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDoc YouTube (Educational): @drdustinportela Pinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac

Dermatology has come a long way, but not every treatment from the past deserves a comeback. In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee take a fascinating look at some of the biggest blind spots in skin health and beauty, from mercury and arsenic in cosmetics to x-ray treatments for acne, sun lamps, coal tar therapies, and aggressive phenol peels. They break down why these treatments were once accepted, what doctors and patients believed at the time, and how better evidence eventually revealed the risks. Along the way, they also touch on acne myths, outdated assumptions about hygiene and diet, the dangers of unregulated skin-lightening creams, and why some modern at-home beauty devices may become the next blind spot we look back on with regret. But this episode is not just about the past. It is also about how good medicine actually works. Dustin and Austin talk about why evidence-based care matters, how science keeps evolving, and why the best providers stay humble, keep learning, and listen closely to their patients. They also explore how technology, research tools, ingredient transparency, and personalized skincare are helping modern dermatology move in a smarter and safer direction. If you have ever wondered how medicine changes over time, why old advice falls apart, or what current trends may not age well, this episode is equal parts eye-opening, thoughtful, and incredibly relevant. Product of the Week: AlphaRet from Skinbetter Science AlphaRet is one of Dr. Portela and Austin's favorite retinoid products because it combines real results with a level of gentleness that is hard to find. It features retinoic acid along with lactic acid and glycolic acid to improve skin tone, texture, and signs of aging while staying more tolerable than many traditional retinoids. It is one of the most popular products in their office and a longtime Skinbetter Science standout. Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportela YouTube Reactions: @208SkinDoc YouTube Educational: @drdustinportela Pinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac

Hearing the word "biopsy" can make a lot of people nervous. In this episode, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Dustin Portela and physician assistant Austin Lee break down one of the most common procedures performed in dermatology: the skin biopsy. They explain why biopsies are done, when they're necessary, and why having one does not automatically mean you have skin cancer. The conversation walks through the different types of biopsies dermatologists perform, including shave biopsies, punch biopsies, and excisional biopsies. They also explain what the procedure actually feels like, how long it takes, and what patients can expect during and after the appointment. Dr. Portela and Austin also take listeners behind the scenes of what happens after a biopsy is performed. They discuss how samples are processed in pathology labs, how dermatopathologists analyze tissue under the microscope, and why your dermatologist's relationship with a skilled pathologist is so important for accurate diagnoses. They also cover healing timelines, scar prevention, when to worry about infection, and how biopsy results are delivered to patients. If you've ever delayed a dermatology appointment because you were worried about needing a biopsy, this episode will help demystify the entire process. Product of the Week Silicone Scar Gel Flawless SunShield Scar Gel with SPF BUNDLE DEAL After a biopsy or procedure, proper scar care can make a big difference in healing and cosmetic outcomes. Silicone scar gel helps support healthy healing while minimizing the appearance of scars. For areas exposed to sunlight, the Flawless SunShield adds SPF protection to help prevent post-inflammatory pigmentation and discoloration. Follow Us Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportela YouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDoc YouTube (Educational): @drdustinportela Pinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac

What if the biggest change you could make in your life isn't a tactic, a productivity hack, or a new routine, but a shift in identity? In this guest episode, Dr. Dustin Portela sits down with educator and Apogee Strong founder Matt Beaudreau to talk about leadership, fatherhood, discipline, health, and the power of becoming the kind of person who naturally lives the habits you want to build. Matt shares the philosophy behind Apogee Strong and Apogee Schools, a model focused on whole-family education, personal responsibility, entrepreneurship, and character development. The conversation explores why expectations matter more than rules, how kids rise to the standards we actually enforce, and why identity drives behavior far more than motivation ever will. They also dive into burnout among high-achieving men, the trap of tying self-worth to financial success, discipline versus punishment, how fathers can lead by example, and why consistency in health, marriage, and parenting compounds over time. From food choices to phone habits to servant leadership, this episode is about building strength in every area of life. If you are a father, a parent trying to raise strong kids, or a man who knows he can level up, this conversation is practical, challenging, and deeply applicable. About the Guest: Matt Beaudreau Matt Beaudreau is the founder of Apogee Strong and co-founder of Apogee Schools. He works with men, women, and families to build leadership, discipline, health, and responsibility through whole-family mentorship and education programs. Learn more at: https://apogeestrong.com Follow Apogee Strong: Instagram: @apogeeprogram Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportela YouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDoc YouTube (Educational): @drdustinportela Pinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac

Toothpaste on pimples. Lemon juice for dark spots. Egg whites for tightening. Butter on burns. We've all heard them. In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin break down the most common old-school skincare remedies passed down from grandmas, TikTok, and well-meaning family members and explain what actually works, what's harmless, and what can seriously damage your skin. They cover toothpaste for acne, lemon juice and apple cider vinegar for pigmentation, cucumbers for puffy eyes, turmeric masks, oatmeal baths, honey for wounds, aloe for burns, and even the dangerous rise of black salve. Along the way, they explain the science behind why some of these remedies gained popularity and why modern skincare products are often safer, more effective, and better regulated. This episode is part myth-busting, part science lesson, and part reality check. Just because something is "natural" doesn't mean it's safe. And just because it's been around for decades doesn't mean it works. If you've ever been tempted to DIY your skincare from your kitchen cabinet, listen to this first. Product of the Week: EltaMD Sunscreen EltaMD remains one of the most trusted sunscreen brands recommended in dermatology offices nationwide. Through the Air Skin Store, you can get 15% off EltaMD products for every purchase, not just your first order. Products ship directly from the manufacturer to ensure authenticity and quality. [Click here for EltaMD Sunscreen] Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportela YouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDoc YouTube (Educational): @drdustinportela Pinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac

Mental health does not need to be complicated, soft, or filled with buzzwords. In this guest episode, Dr. Dustin Portela sits down with licensed therapist and author Trey Tucker to talk about what he calls "therapy without the fluff." Trey shares his straightforward approach to anxiety, purpose, relationships, and the challenges facing young men today. The conversation explores the mind-body connection, how emotional injuries shape adult behavior, why many men struggle with vulnerability, and how silence and self-awareness can completely change your mental health trajectory. They also dive into loneliness, modern social media pressures, fatherhood, purpose, and why chasing happiness often leads to less fulfillment. If you have ever felt overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure how to process what is happening inside your own head, this episode offers practical tools and grounded perspective. No jargon. No fluff. Just honest conversation about what actually helps. About the Guest: Trey Tucker Trey Tucker is a licensed therapist, speaker, and author of Tough Enough, a book focused on helping young men build emotional strength, purpose, and resilience. His work centers on straightforward, actionable mental health guidance designed to cut through noise and stigma. Find Trey and his book: Website: https://toughenoughbook.com Book: Available wherever books are sold Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportela YouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDoc YouTube (Educational): @drdustinportela Pinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac  

Psoriasis is more than just a rash. In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee break down what psoriasis really is, why it happens, and how treatment has completely changed over the past decade. They explain the difference between autoimmune and autoinflammatory disease, why psoriasis is driven by inflammatory signaling pathways like TNF alpha, IL-17, and IL-23, and how that inflammation affects more than just the skin. The conversation covers plaque psoriasis, guttate psoriasis, nail psoriasis, inverse psoriasis, erythrodermic psoriasis, and psoriatic arthritis, along with the serious cardiovascular and metabolic risks that can come with uncontrolled disease. Dustin and Austin also walk through treatment options from old school coal tar and phototherapy to modern topical medications, oral therapies, and the biologic injections that have transformed patient outcomes. They discuss what to expect with lab monitoring, why biologics are far safer than many people assume, and how these medications can be life changing for patients struggling physically and emotionally. They also touch on lifestyle factors including stress, alcohol, weight, diet, and sunlight, plus the powerful emotional toll psoriasis can take and why treating it often restores far more than just skin. If you or someone you love has psoriasis, this episode offers clarity, hope, and a roadmap for what modern treatment can look like. Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportela YouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDoc YouTube (Educational): @drdustinportela Pinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac Product of the Week: Future Clinic Future Clinic is Dr. Portela's teledermatology platform, currently available in Idaho and New York with more states coming soon. Through a simple monthly subscription starting at $50, patients can receive real medical advice, prescriptions, and follow ups directly from Dr. Portela through the app. Spots are currently limited, so if you live in Idaho or New York and want direct access to dermatology care, you can sign up through this link.

Skincare marketing is loud, confusing, and often misleading. In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee break down the most common skincare buzzwords and claims so you can stop falling for hype and start making smarter decisions. They unpack terms like clinically tested, dermatologist recommended, hypoallergenic, fragrance free versus unscented, medical grade, non comedogenic, clean beauty, and organic, explaining what each one actually means and what is mostly just marketing. You will learn why many of these labels are unregulated, how companies legally stretch the truth, and why price does not always equal performance. The conversation also dives into influencer marketing, TikTok shop, affiliate links, filters, and before and after videos, including how social media shapes unrealistic expectations around skin. Dustin and Austin share real examples of deceptive trends, why apps like Yuka and EWG can be misleading, and how even identical ingredient lists can hide major differences in formulation. They wrap with practical advice on how to read ingredient labels, when over the counter products make sense, how to patch test new skincare, and how to approach shopping without overspending or getting overwhelmed. Plus, Dr. Portela introduces a new telehealth option for patients who want real dermatology guidance instead of social media guesswork. If you have ever stood in the skincare aisle feeling confused, skeptical, or unsure who to trust, this episode gives you the tools to shop smarter and take control of your routine. Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportela YouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDoc YouTube (Educational): @drdustinportela Pinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac Product of the Week: Future Clinic Telehealth Dr. Portela is now offering dermatology telehealth consultations through the Future Clinic app. This allows patients in Idaho and New York, with more states coming soon, to get real medical advice, prescriptions, and follow ups directly from Dr. Portela. Each visit is reviewed by him personally, with voice or video responses included. Unlimited visits start at $50 per month. Click here: https://app.futureclinic.com/clinics/drportela/profile

Sleep is one of the most important pillars of health, but the thing you sleep on is often the most overlooked. In this guest episode, Dr. Dustin Portela sits down with mattress expert Derek Hales, Founder and Editor in Chief of NapLab, to break down how your mattress directly affects sleep quality, recovery, and overall health. Derek has tested over 500 mattresses using objective, data-driven methods, and he explains why most people shop for mattresses the wrong way. Together, they talk through firmness, materials, price points, and why lying on a mattress in a store for two minutes tells you almost nothing about how you will actually sleep on it. They also dive into motion transfer, cooling, durability, and why many expensive mattresses are not actually better. The conversation covers how poor sleep impacts skin disease, stress, and mental health, why most people should choose a medium-firm hybrid mattress, how much you actually need to spend, and how to choose a mattress for kids. They also discuss popular sleep tech like Eight Sleep, active cooling systems, and wearables, plus what really matters versus what is just hype. If you have ever wondered whether your mattress is holding you back from better sleep, better recovery, and better health, this episode gives you clear, practical guidance you can actually use. Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportela YouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDoc YouTube (Educational): @drdustinportela Pinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac Guest: Derek Hales Founder and Editor in Chief of NapLab Website: https://naplab.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/naplabreviews/ X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/NapLabReviews TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@naplabreviews YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NapLabReviews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naplabreviews/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dhales/

Stress does not cause every skin condition, but it can make almost all of them worse. In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee dive into the powerful connection between your mental health and your skin, an area known as psychodermatology. They explain how stress hormones like cortisol disrupt the skin barrier, trigger flares of eczema, psoriasis, acne, and hidradenitis, and fuel cycles like itching, scratching, picking, and hair pulling. The conversation also explores conditions like prurigo nodularis, trichotillomania, compulsive skin picking, and why these symptoms are very real even when they are misunderstood. Dustin and Austin share real clinic stories, discuss sleep deprivation, gut health, antibiotics, probiotics, and why chronic stress quietly affects everything from breakouts to healing. They also break down what actually helps, including better sleep hygiene, walking outside without distractions, mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, and simple daily habits that calm both the nervous system and the skin. This episode is about treating people, not just skin. If you have ever wondered whether stress is affecting your breakouts, rashes, flares, or healing, this conversation will give you clarity, reassurance, and practical tools you can use right away. Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportela YouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDoc YouTube (Educational): @drdustinportela Pinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac Product of the Week: Kill Switch Sleep Cocoa Kill Switch is the melatonin free sleep supplement Dr. Portela uses to improve sleep quality without morning grogginess. It contains magnesium, GABA, L-theanine, and tart cherry extract to support deeper sleep, better recovery, and improved stress resilience. Better sleep supports better skin, better decisions, and better overall health.

Is expensive skincare really better, or is it just better marketing? In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee go head-to-head breaking down drugstore, mid-tier, and luxury skincare products to figure out what's actually worth your money. They walk through every major category, including cleansers, vitamin C, retinol, moisturizers, sunscreen, and eye creams, explaining where you can save, where it makes sense to splurge, and where price makes little to no difference. The conversation cuts through common marketing buzzwords like "dermatologist recommended," "clinically tested," "clean beauty," and "non-comedogenic," translating what those labels really mean when you're standing in the aisle or scrolling online. You'll also hear honest takes on viral skincare trends like slugging, glass skin, and skin cycling, plus real-world insights on ingredient lists, product formulations, and why consistency matters more than brand loyalty. To wrap things up, Dr. Portela shares a complete beginner-friendly skincare routine that covers all the essentials without unnecessary extras. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by skincare options or wondered whether luxury products actually deliver better results, this episode gives you the clarity you need to shop smarter and build a routine that works. Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportela YouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDoc YouTube (Educational): @drdustinportela Pinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac Product of the Week https://www.airehealth.com/Solutions/NjQyMDA= 

Lasers can do incredible things for skin, but the way they are marketed often makes them confusing, overpriced, and misunderstood. In this guest episode, Dr. Dustin Portela sits down with dermatologist and laser company founder Dr. Ciaran Smythe to pull back the curtain on how laser technology really works and how patients can make smarter decisions. Dr. Smith shares his unique path from orthopedic surgery to dermatology and explains why he started his own laser company, Solace Medical, with a focus on transparency, realistic expectations, and better education for both doctors and patients. Together, they break down the biggest myths in the laser industry, why downtime still matters, how to spot red flags in marketing claims, and why the person operating the laser matters more than the device itself. They also dive into lasers for pigmentation, wrinkles, acne scars, and skin cancer prevention, including what wavelengths actually work, which treatments require real downtime, and why some clinics promise results they cannot safely deliver. This conversation is honest, practical, and packed with insights that will change how you think about laser treatments. If you have ever considered laser treatments or felt overwhelmed by conflicting advice, this episode gives you the clarity you have been missing. Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportela YouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDoc YouTube (Educational): @drdustinportela Pinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac

Let's be real. Most New Year's resolutions fail, and it's not because you are lazy or lack willpower. It's because you've been taught the wrong strategy. In this special episode, Dr. Dustin Portela breaks down a simple, science-backed framework for building habits that last. Pulled from a recent YouTube video, this episode explains why focusing on identity beats focusing on goals, why systems matter more than motivation, and how starting ridiculously small is the secret to real, long-term change. Using ideas inspired by Atomic Habits, Dr. Portela walks through practical examples you can apply immediately, whether your goals involve your health, your skin, your fitness, or your daily routine. This is not about extreme makeovers or overnight transformations. It is about building habits that compound over time and actually fit into real life. If you have ever set the same resolution year after year and wondered why nothing sticks, this episode will change how you think about self-improvement and give you a framework you can use starting today. Follow Us: Instagram: @skinfluence_pod

This is a quick holiday check-in from Dr. Dustin Portela to say thank you. If you listened to even one episode this year, you are the reason this show exists, and we wanted to take a minute to acknowledge that. Skinfluence has grown in ways we honestly did not expect, and 2025 has been a blast. From deep dermatology dives to guest conversations and real-world skin advice, this show has become something we are genuinely proud of, and it is because of this community. We also want you in the driver's seat for what comes next. Big things are already planned for 2026, and we want to hear what you loved, what stuck with you, and what you want us to cover next. Head over to Instagram, follow @skinfluence_pod, and send us a message with your favorite episode or a topic you want us to break down. However you are spending the holidays, we hope they are restful, joyful, and filled with good people. Thanks for being here. We will see you in the next episode and in an even bigger year ahead. Happy holidays from Skinfluence. 🎁🎙️ Follow Us: Instagram: @skinfluence_pod

From viral pimple popping videos to mysterious bumps that show up out of nowhere, this episode breaks down the most common lumps and bumps people find on their skin. Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee walk through what these growths actually are, where they come from, and when they are completely harmless versus when they need medical attention. They cover epidermal cysts, pilar cysts, lipomas, dermatofibromas, milia, and sebaceous hyperplasia, explaining how each one forms, why some smell worse than others, and why squeezing them at home often makes things much worse. You will hear real clinic stories, including rare cases where something that looked like a simple cyst turned out to be cancer, and why sending everything to pathology is non negotiable in dermatology. The episode also covers treatment options, what removal looks like, when to wait versus when to act, and how inflammation or infection can change outcomes. Plus, a fun but informative Did You Know segment dives into lipoma statistics and the rise of Dr. Pimple Popper, along with behind the scenes insight into what dermatologists actually think about popping culture. If you have ever wondered whether a bump is normal, whether it is safe to pop, or when it is time to see a dermatologist, this episode gives you clarity, reassurance, and practical guidance. Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportela YouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDoc YouTube (Educational): @drdustinportela Pinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac Product of the Week: Shark CryoGlow and Facial Pro Glow System This at home facial device is designed to mimic professional treatments like a HydraFacial by using suction, heat, cooling, and serum infusion to deep clean pores and improve skin texture. Dr. Portela shares his firsthand experience using the device and was impressed by how much buildup it removed, even with a consistent skincare routine. The system is designed for weekly use, takes under fifteen minutes, and can pay for itself quickly compared to in office facials. https://sharkninja.sjv.io/Vxnb1O

Ever wondered what a dermatologist really does all day? In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee take you behind the scenes for a full look at the daily rhythm of clinic life. From early morning workouts and reviewing charts to juggling medical visits, surgeries, cosmetic procedures, biopsies, and the unexpected surprises that walk in, they share what it takes to run a busy dermatology practice with accuracy, empathy, and efficiency. They talk about balancing high patient volume, managing complex schedules, working closely with medical assistants, and the emotional side of patient care. You will also hear stories about same day procedures, emergency situations that pop up in the middle of clinic, and the powerful moments when delivering good news brings patients to tears. Plus, this week's Did You Know segment highlights why dermatology sees some of the highest outpatient visit counts in all of medicine. Whether you love the medical side, the surgical side, or the human side of dermatology, this episode gives you a real look at what the job is like from sunup to sundown. Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportela YouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDoc YouTube (Educational): @drdustinportela Pinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac Product of the Week: Kill Switch Sleep Cocoa Kill Switch is the evening drink Dr. Portela uses when he knows his mind is racing and sleep will be tough. It is a hot cocoa blend made with magnesium, GABA, L-theanine, and tart cherry to help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. There is no melatonin and no morning grogginess. Dr. Portela reports deeper sleep and more vivid dreams, which is a sign of increased REM quality. Use code DUSTIN for 10 dollars off your order.

Artificial intelligence is everywhere, but what does it really mean for your skin? In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee take a deep dive into how AI and new technology are already shaping the world of dermatology. From smartphone apps that try to analyze moles to FDA approved radiology and pathology tools, they break down what works, what does not, and what patients should approach with caution. They also share real stories from clinic, including patients who came in because AI scared them with a false cancer warning, and cases where AI unexpectedly pointed someone in the right direction. The hosts discuss teledermatology, the rise of AI assisted intake systems, full body mole mapping, and how technology can support dermatologists without replacing the human judgment and empathy that medicine depends on. This week's conversation also looks ahead at predictive algorithms, wearable integrations, and why the future of skin tech may be helpful as long as it does not replace common sense or real connection with a trusted provider. Whether you are curious about AI, nervous about it, or already using it in your daily life, this episode gives you an honest look at where the field is going and what to expect next. Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportela YouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDoc YouTube (Educational): @drdustinportela Pinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac Product of the Week: Ulike LED Face Mask The LED mask featured in this episode is Dr. Portela's top choice for at home light therapy. It includes more LEDs than most masks on the market and uses an inner reflective mirror to enhance light exposure to the skin. The Ulike mask offers multiple modes, including settings for inflammation, rejuvenation, fine lines, and blemish support, all while staying lightweight and comfortable. It is an excellent add on for people who already have the basics in place, including cleanser, vitamin C, sunscreen, and a nighttime retinol.

It is the biggest shopping week of the year, and in this Black Friday special, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee break down the skincare deals actually worth your time and money. No gimmicks, no pressure, just the products they genuinely use, trust, and recommend in the clinic every day. They walk through the Dean Skincare Anti-Aging Bundle and explain why the Activ V Vitamin C, Sheer Shield sunscreen, exfoliating pads, retinols, and Activi Repair Cream stand out this year, and they share an exclusive 30 percent off code for Skinfluence listeners. Dustin and Austin also highlight their top device picks, including the Cure LED red light mask and the Jill Razor dermaplaning system, along with this year's rare SkinBetter Science holiday gifts with purchase. To wrap things up, they share their favorite non-skincare deal: the Kill Switch sleep cocoa that helps Dustin sleep deeper and wake up refreshed without melatonin. Whether you are shopping for yourself or hunting for gifts, this special episode helps you navigate Black Friday with confidence. Follow Us Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportela YouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDoc YouTube (Educational): @drdustinportela Pinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac Product Spotlight: Black Friday Picks We Love Dean Skincare Anti-Aging Bundle A curated set featuring Activ V Vitamin C, Sheer Shield SPF, exfoliating pads, retinols, and Activi Repair Cream. This bundle is available with a rare 30 percent discount for Skinfluence listeners. Quire Skincare mask A high-quality, dermatologist-approved device that delivers therapeutic red light to support collagen production and reduce inflammation. Jill Razor Dermaplaning System A safe, easy to use dermaplaning tool designed to smooth skin texture and remove peach fuzz at home. Skinbetter Science AlphaRet Overnight (all products can be accessed here) This year's limited time gift-with-purchase sets offer a great opportunity to try premium formulas with added value. KillSwitch Sleep Supplement A melatonin-free nighttime drink made with GABA, L-theanine, magnesium glycinate, and tart cherry extract to support deeper, more restorative sleep.

In this special guest episode, Dr. Dustin Portela sits down with entrepreneur and financial educator Braiden Shaw for an eye-opening conversation about a part of wellness most people overlook: financial health. Braiden—known for his viral money content and no-nonsense, practical approach to building wealth—shares his path from college basketball player to multimillionaire investor, and why taking control of your finances is one of the most powerful ways to reduce stress and improve your well-being. They dig into why financial stress impacts everything from sleep to skin, how to avoid lifestyle creep, the five essential financial accounts everyone should have, and the mindset shifts that separate long-term planners from paycheck-to-paycheck living. They also explore investing basics, retirement misconceptions, the role of Bitcoin, and how small daily habits create both financial stability and healthier living overall. This episode delivers clarity, motivation, and actionable next steps for anyone looking to strengthen their financial foundation—and their peace of mind. Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportela YouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDoc YouTube (Educational): @drdustinportela Pinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac Guest: Braiden Shaw Instagram: @braidenshaw TikTok: @braidenshaw YouTube: @braidenshaw