Skinfluence with Dr. Dustin Portela

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

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the world, but with early detection, it's also one of the most treatable. In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee take a deep dive into everything you need to know about skin cancer—from what to look for and who's most at risk to what happens during a skin exam or biopsy. They explain the key differences between basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, sharing clinical insight and real patient stories that highlight why regular skin checks save lives. You'll learn how to spot suspicious moles using the ABCDE rule, what "ugly duckling" lesions are, and why sunscreen myths are still circulating online. Plus, in this week's "Did You Know?" the hosts discuss the rarest skin cancers, genetic risks, and how mutations like the Sonic Hedgehog gene can even cause cancer in kids. Whether you're diligent about your SPF or overdue for your first skin check, this episode gives you the knowledge—and motivation—to protect yourself year-round. 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 — Neutrogena Collagen Bank SPF 30 This multitasking daily sunscreen hydrates, protects, and supports collagen production with micro-peptides that help firm and smooth the skin. Lightweight and non-greasy, it's an easy way to get both anti-aging and sun protection in one step. Available at major retailers and linked in the show notes.

In this special guest episode, Dr. Dustin Portela sits down with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michael Christopher to discuss one of dermatology's most powerful diagnostic tools: dermoscopy. Often called "the stethoscope of dermatology," the dermatoscope allows doctors to detect skin cancer earlier and more accurately than ever before. Dr. Christopher explains how dermoscopy works, why it's not yet standard in every clinic, and what patients should expect during a thorough skin exam. The two also dive into the broader conversation about proactive healthcare—covering topics like optimal screening vs. standard guidelines, full-body imaging, AI-assisted diagnostics, and the changing landscape of melanoma detection. Whether you're a dermatologist, a medical student, or someone who wants to take your skin health seriously, this episode will leave you seeing skin checks—and your annual exam—in a whole new light. Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportelaYouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDocYouTube (Educational): @drdustinportelaPinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac Guest: Dr. Michael ChristopherInstagram: @michael.christopher.md Dr. Christopher is a board-certified dermatologist based in Tucson, Arizona, and a leading educator in dermoscopy and skin cancer detection. He serves on the Arizona Melanoma Task Force and is dedicated to advancing early cancer detection through education and technology.

You don't have to work outside to take a hit from your environment. In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee uncover the hidden ways office life can affect your skin—from blue light exposure and recycled air to stress, poor posture, and even those tempting breakroom snacks. They discuss how blue light can worsen pigmentation, how dry indoor air and heaters dehydrate skin, and why sitting all day can lead to circulation issues that dull your complexion. Plus, they share practical tips for healthier skin at work: using tinted sunscreen to block visible light, hydrating often, taking stretch breaks, managing stress, and even cleaning your phone and headset to avoid breakouts. This week's "Did You Know?" features wild skin trivia about heat exposure and office-induced rashes you've probably never heard of. Whether you're working from home or back at the desk, this episode helps you build better skin habits where you spend most of your time—at work. 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 A science-backed nighttime drink designed to help you unwind, sleep deeper, and wake up refreshed. Formulated with GABA, L-theanine, tart cherry extract, and magnesium glycinate, this hot cocoa blend supports quality rest without added sugar. Use it to reset your sleep after travel, stress, or late nights—and wake up with skin that shows it. Individuals can either use code DUSTIN for $10 off their order or click the link below.    https://www.switchsupplements.com/DUSTIN

It's one of the most talked-about topics in dermatology—and one of the most misunderstood. In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee explore the fascinating connection between your gut and your skin. They explain how inflammation, diet, and the microbiome influence everything from acne and eczema to psoriasis and overall skin health. You'll learn how food choices, stress, and even sleep affect your gut's barrier (and, in turn, your skin's barrier), plus why the gut-brain-skin axis matters more than ever. The hosts share practical, science-backed ways to support gut health—from fiber and probiotics to lifestyle adjustments—and debunk myths about "one-size-fits-all" supplements and miracle diets. This week's "Did You Know?" reveals just how many bacteria call your gut home (hint: way more than your skin has cells) and how they help your body heal itself from the inside out. Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportelaYouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDocYouTube (Educational): @drdustinportelaPinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac Product of the Week — Pendulum Probiotics A next-generation probiotic clinically formulated to restore balance in the gut microbiome. Featuring live strains like Akkermansia muciniphila, Bifidobacterium, and Clostridium butyricum—each proven to support digestive and skin health. Available through select clinics and at pendulumlife.com.  

Teen skin comes with its own set of challenges—and lessons that last a lifetime. In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee break down everything you need to know about teenage skin, from acne and oily skin to dandruff, deodorant, and even the emotional side of breakouts. They cover why acne happens, how hormones trigger oil production, and the simple skincare routines that actually work (without overcomplicating things). The hosts also share their own teenage skincare mistakes, discuss the dangers of social media "hacks," and explain how confidence and clear skin aren't the same thing. Plus, this week's "Did You Know?" reveals how common acne really is—and a few surprising facts about who gets it worst. Whether you're a teen struggling with breakouts, a parent trying to help, or someone who just wishes they had this advice sooner, this episode offers practical tips, honest talk, and a dose of reassurance that you're not alone. Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportelaYouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDocYouTube (Educational): @drdustinportelaPinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac Product of the Week — La Roche-Posay Purifying Foaming Cleanser, Differin Gel & EltaMD UV ClearA simple, dermatologist-approved trio perfect for teenage skin. La Roche-Posay's gentle foaming cleanser removes oil without stripping, Differin Gel fights acne and improves texture, and EltaMD UV Clear provides lightweight SPF protection with niacinamide to calm and balance the skin. LRP Purifying Foaming Cleanser: https://go.shopmy.us/p-27229440 Differin Gel: https://go.shopmy.us/p-27229626 EltaMD UV Clear: https://go.shopmy.us/p-27289224 

When your skin is red, tight, flaky, or stinging—your barrier might be crying for help. In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee unpack everything you need to know about the skin barrier: what it is, what damages it, and how to repair it. They break down how harsh cleansers, over-exfoliation, environmental stress, and even skincare "enthusiasm" can compromise your barrier—and what to do when it happens. You'll learn how to simplify your routine, which ingredients actually help (ceramides, niacinamide, urea, and petrolatum), and when to ditch actives like retinol or acids. They also share dermatologist-approved strategies for soothing irritation, rebuilding the microbiome, and preventing future flare-ups. Plus, this week's "Did You Know?" features some wild animal skin trivia you won't forget. Whether your skin's feeling dry, angry, or overworked, this episode gives you a reset plan for a calm, balanced, and healthy complexion. Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportelaYouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDocYouTube (Educational): @drdustinportelaPinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac Product of the Week — Avène Barrier Repair CollectionDr. Portela's go-to for restoring damaged skin. The lineup includes Avène Thermal Spring Water (to calm and rebalance the microbiome), Cicalfate+ Cream (for deep moisture and healing), and XeraCalm A.D Balm (for soothing itch and sensitivity). Sterile, fragrance-free, and dermatologist-approved—perfect for post-procedure skin or daily repair. Avene Thermal Spring Water: https://go.shopmy.us/p-27228027 Avene Cicalfate+ Cream: https://go.shopmy.us/p-17833034 Avene XeraCalm AD: https://go.shopmy.us/p-27228788 

From stubborn acne marks to melasma and sunspots, unwanted pigmentation is one of the most common reasons people see a dermatologist. In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee break down the different types of pigmentation, why they happen, and the science behind how to treat them. They cover post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), melasma, sunspots, freckles, and even lighter pigment changes like idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis. You'll learn why pigmentation is so persistent, how heat and even blue light can make melasma worse, and why sunscreen is always step one. Dustin and Austin also dive into prescription options like hydroquinone, over-the-counter ingredients like kojic acid and niacinamide, and emerging alternatives like thiamidol and melasyl. They also explore in-office options—chemical peels, lasers, and microneedling—and explain which treatments work best for which conditions. This week's "Did You Know?" reveals just how common pigmentation really is in dermatology offices—and why it often shows up alongside other concerns. Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportelaYouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDocYouTube (Educational): @drdustinportelaPinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac Product of the Week — Eucerin Radiant Tone CollectionFeaturing thiamidol, a unique ingredient that helps reduce pigmentation without the risks associated with hydroquinone. The line includes a gentle cleanser, serum, tinted SPF, and night

In this special guest episode, Dr. Dustin Portela sits down with Chris Salgado—founder of Atwater Skincare and former president of Kiehl's—for a candid conversation about men's self-care, confidence, and mental health. With over 40 years in the beauty industry, Chris shares what inspired him to create a modern men's brand, why skincare for men needs more than just "marketing," and how grooming habits like beards fit into the bigger picture of self-image. They also talk openly about the role skincare can play in building emotional resilience, the challenges of launching a brand in today's crowded market, and why small intentional habits (like daily sunscreen or a simple skincare routine) can transform more than just your skin. Plus, Chris opens up about his personal journey—from motorcycles to mental health advocacy—and offers an exclusive discount for Skinfluence listeners on Atwater Skincare. Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportela YouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDoc YouTube (Educational): @drdustinportela Pinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac Atwater Skincare Offer Chris has generously offered Skinfluence listeners a discount (rare for Atwater!) when you shop at atwaterskincare.com. Use the code DRDUSTIN at checkout to save on premium men's skincare, including beard oil, moisturizers, and more.

From toothpaste on pimples to lemon juice masks, TikTok is full of skincare "hacks" that promise quick fixes but can actually do more harm than good. In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee put the most viral trends under the microscope, breaking down why they don't work and what you should be doing instead. They cover everything from sugar scrubs and at-home microneedling to slugging, jade rollers, beef tallow, pimple patches, and DIY masks. Along the way, they share personal stories from the clinic, laugh about some of the stranger cases they've seen, and highlight the difference between harmless self-care rituals and habits that can really wreck your skin. Plus, this week's "Did You Know?" dives into some surprising historical skincare practices—from crushed pearls to the "retinol sandwich" myth. If you've ever been tempted to try a social media hack, this episode will help you separate fact from fiction—so your skin stays safe, healthy, and glowing. Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportelaYouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDocYouTube (Educational): @drdustinportelaPinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac Product of the Week — Cure Red Light MaskA high-quality LED mask that delivers the proven benefits of red light therapy to boost skin health and reduce inflammation. Available now through the Air Skin Store at a discounted price.

Your scalp is skin too, and it can face just as many problems as the rest of your body. In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee break down the most common scalp conditions, including dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, and psoriasis—explaining what causes them, how they're different, and the treatments that actually work. They also share surprising connections between scalp health and other conditions, from Parkinson's disease to psoriatic arthritis, and explain why product buildup isn't the same as dandruff. You'll learn about the best over-the-counter shampoos, when prescriptions are needed, and why rotating products can make a big difference. Plus, this week's "Did You Know?" covers the unexpected link between scalp oil glands and the greasiness you feel by the end of the day. Whether you're battling flakes, itch, or irritation, this episode offers clarity, practical advice, and a few laughs along the way. Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportelaYouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDocYouTube (Educational): @drdustinportelaPinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac Product of the Week — CeraVe Hydrating Anti-Dandruff Shampoo & ConditionerFormulated with 1% pyrithione zinc and ceramides, this dermatologist-tested duo helps fight flakes while restoring your skin barrier. For stubborn cases, the team also recommends Ducray shampoos, selenium sulfide options, or prescription-strength ketoconazole.