Skin | Earth | Vitality

Dr. Kira Ducharme, a naturopathic physician specializing in dermatology, discusses her approach to skincare and wellness. She emphasizes the importance of mindset, gratitude, and self-care, including the practice of a 'hot girl walk' to boost confidence and set goals. Dr. Ducharme also shares her thoughts on skincare trends. She explains why she prefers a holistic approach to dermatology. She discusses her individualized treatment plans, which may include acupuncture, herbs, supplements, and lifestyle changes. Dr. Ducharme focuses on addressing the root causes of skin concerns, such as diet, stress, and skincare products. Dr. Kira DuCharme discusses the importance of lifestyle modifications for overall wellness and skin support. She recommends a whole foods diet, eating a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables, and eating in season. She also suggests incorporating meditation or journaling as a way to reduce stress and quiet the mind. Movement and exercise, such as yoga and qigong, are important for keeping the body and skin healthy. Dr. DuCharme explains the concept of qi in traditional Chinese medicine and how keeping qi flowing within the body is essential for maintaining health and preventing illness. She also discusses the use of acupuncture to move qi and address specific skin concerns. Dr. DuCharme offers virtual consultations for skincare concerns and provides acupuncture and cosmetic acupuncture treatments in person.Keep In Touch with Dr. DuCharme:On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ducharmeintegrativedermatology/On her website: https://theoceannative.com/You can find Emily’s curated skincare shop on her website here: https://stratumaesthetics.com/collectionsHang out with her on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/stratumaesthetics/Find Emily on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCY3I84QTWRiIMhsnxnd8Vmg This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stratum.substack.com

Emily discusses the significance of the autumn equinox and the relevance of seasonal living as a part of your wellness journey. She emphasizes the need for balance and introspection during this time, encouraging listeners to celebrate the harvest and let go of what no longer serves them. The conversation also covers herbs that are supportive during the fall, eating seasonally, and transitioning routines for the fall. She discusses different ways to celebrate Autumn and its bounty. Overall, the episode highlights the interconnectedness of nature and personal well-being.Mentioned in the show is Ina Garten’s Roast Chicken Video on YouTubeYou can find Emily’s curated skincare shop on her website here: https://stratumaesthetics.com/collectionsHang out with her on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/stratumaesthetics/Find Emily on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCY3I84QTWRiIMhsnxnd8Vmg This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stratum.substack.com

Emily interviews Melissa Birch, a naturopathic nutritionist, she shares her journey with acne and how it led her to specialize in acne. She takes a holistic approach to address the root causes of acne, focusing on anti-inflammatory foods, balancing blood sugar, and incorporating a balanced 80-20 approach to nutrition, emotional well being, and mindset. Melissa emphasizes the importance of individualized approaches and tailoring recommendations based on each client's symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle. She also discusses the role of gut health in acne and the use of functional testing to identify root causes. Melissa shares lifestyle modifications, such as walking and lymphatic drainage, that can support gut and skin health. She also provides skincare recommendations for acne-prone skin.Find Melissa on her websiteand on InstagramYou can find Emily’s curated skincare shop on her website here: https://stratumaesthetics.com/collectionsHang out with her on InstagramandFind Emily on YouTube This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stratum.substack.com

Emily discusses hyperpigmentation, or darker pigment patches on the skin from a holistic lens. She gets into causes and how to reduce or prevent it. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the factors that contribute to hyperpigmentation and taking control of them. Modalities such as lymphatic drainage, face cupping, red light therapy, and micro-needling can be beneficial. Topical ingredients like vitamin C, polyphenols, and tyrosinase inhibitors can also help. Lifestyle factors, such as eating a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and reducing inflammatory foods, can support skin health. Emotional and energetic contributors to hyperpigmentation may include resistance to change and a subconscious effort to protect oneself from emotional harm.You can find Emily’s curated skincare shop on her website here: https://stratumaesthetics.com/collectionsHang out with her on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/stratumaesthetics/Find Emily on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCY3I84QTWRiIMhsnxnd8Vmg This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stratum.substack.com

In this episode, Emily discusses stress and how plants can be helpful in managing stress. She emphasizes that lifestyle adjustments are the foundation for managing stress. She explains how stress affects the skin and the body, including hormone release, inflammation, oxidative stress, and barrier function. Emily provides various strategies for managing stress, such as engaging in hormetic stress activities, practicing meditation, maintaining a healthy diet, getting quality sleep, practicing time management, seeking social support, and prioritizing rest. She then introduces several herbs, including passionflower, motherwort, chamomile, linden, and rose, and explains their benefits and how to consume them. The host concludes by encouraging listeners to approach plant medicine with mindfulness and reverence.You can find Emily’s curated skincare shop on her website here: https://stratumaesthetics.com/collectionsHang out with her on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/stratumaesthetics/Find Emily on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCY3I84QTWRiIMhsnxnd8Vmg This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stratum.substack.com

In this conversation, Emily and Lee Zavorskas from Holistic Skin and Tonics discuss the importance of embracing age and the beauty of aging. They touch on topics such as holistic skincare practices, the pressure to look young, and the need for women to support and uplift each other. Lee shares her journey as an aesthetician and her passion for taking a holistic approach to skincare. They also discuss the power of being kind to oneself and others.Hang out with Lee on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/holisticskin_and_tonics/and on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@aestheticaleestyledYou can find Emily’s curated skincare shop on her website here: https://stratumaesthetics.com/collectionsHang out with her on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/stratumaesthetics/Find Emily on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCY3I84QTWRiIMhsnxnd8Vmg This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stratum.substack.com

Emily discusses the importance of incorporating sacred daily practices or rituals into our lives. These practices, inspired by Ayurveda and other ancient wisdom, can enhance overall well-being and vitality. The 12 habits recommended that can be incorporated into daily life, including grounding, morning sunlight exposure, tongue scraping and oil pulling, warm water first thing in the morning, meditation, walking, Ayurvedic nasal care, nutritive herb infusions, daily decluttering, cooking for oneself, dry brushing with self-massage.Nasya Oil talked about in this episode: https://paavaniayurveda.com/products/ayurvedic-nose-oil-nasya?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwlIG2BhC4ARIsADBgpVSRrC7kSM1w4xYAjWVhr3I7CRKNdqyCIdRG58wdBJlxF3RR98BU-MwaAuKxEALw_wcBYou can find Emily’s curated skincare shop on her website here: https://stratumaesthetics.com/collectionsHang out with her on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/stratumaesthetics/Find Emily on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCY3I84QTWRiIMhsnxnd8Vmg This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stratum.substack.com

In this episode, Emily explores the concept of slow beauty and its effectiveness in skincare. She explains that holistic modalities are results-oriented and challenges the perception that natural skincare is weaker. The episode discusses the principles of slow beauty, which emphasizes personalization, mindfulness, sustainability, and long-term well-being. Slow beauty focuses on supporting the skin's barrier as well as all of the functions taking place below the surface. Slow beauty also highlights the importance of face massage, supporting the nervous system, and the mind-skin connection.You can find Emily’s curated skincare shop on her website here: https://stratumaesthetics.com/collectionsHang out with her on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/stratumaesthetics/Find Emily on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCY3I84QTWRiIMhsnxnd8Vmg This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stratum.substack.com

LED light therapy for the skin is not a gimmick but a scientifically proven treatment with numerous benefits. LED stands for light emitting diode, which produces light when electricity passes through it. Different colors of LED light have different effects on the skin, with blue light targeting acne, red light stimulating collagen production, and near-infrared light promoting wound healing. Emily discusses what to look for when shopping for an LED device, and how to best use it on your skin at home! You can find Emily’s curated skincare shop on her website here: https://stratumaesthetics.com/collectionsHang out with her on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/stratumaesthetics/Find Emily on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCY3I84QTWRiIMhsnxnd8Vmg This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stratum.substack.com

In this episode, Emily explores the concept of aging and challenges the narrative around it. She discusses the marketing tactics of the beauty industry and the lack of language around the aging conversation. The host then introduces five herbs that can support vibrant aging: reishi mushroom, ashwagandha, gotu kola, seaweed, and schisandra berry. She explains the benefits of each herb and how they can be consumed or used topically. The episode concludes with recommendations on where to find these herbs and how to incorporate them into a wellness routine.You can find Emily’s curated skincare shop on her website here: https://stratumaesthetics.com/collectionsHang out with her on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/stratumaesthetics/Find Emily on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCY3I84QTWRiIMhsnxnd8Vmg This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stratum.substack.com

Margaret James is an Ayurvedic health counselor who focuses on hormone health, womb wellness, and fertility. She emphasizes the importance of connecting with nature and incorporating simple lifestyle practices to support overall well-being. Margaret recommends waking up with the sun as a daily ritual and suggests reading for pleasure as a way to prioritize self-care. Margaret shares her journey of creating a skincare line and highlights the importance of clean skincare for hormone health. She emphasizes the significance of seasonal eating and lifestyle practices, such as restorative yoga and intentional rest, for supporting skin health. Connect with Margaret here: For Ayurveda coaching and Perinatal support: www.margaretljames.comFor hormone friendly skincare: www.wildandradiantbotanicals.comFor free education: www.instagram.com/heymargaretjamesYou can find Emily’s curated skincare shop on her website here: https://stratumaesthetics.com/collectionsHang out with her on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/stratumaesthetics/Find Emily on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCY3I84QTWRiIMhsnxnd8Vmg This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stratum.substack.com

Emily discusses herbalism and how to dip your toe into it. She explains the difference between a holistic herbal model and an allopathic model, emphasizing the importance of considering the whole person and the synergy of plant constituents in holistic herbalism. She explores various herbal preparations, including teas, tinctures, electuaries, infused honeys, infused oils, and infused vinegars. She also provides tips on researching herbs and understanding their energetics. This episode aims to make herbalism more approachable and encourages listeners to explore this creative and healing practice.You can find Emily’s curated skincare shop on her website here: https://stratumaesthetics.com/collectionsHang out with her on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/stratumaesthetics/Find Emily on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCY3I84QTWRiIMhsnxnd8Vmg This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stratum.substack.com

In this episode, Emily discusses the internal factors that can contribute to breakouts in your 30's, 40's, 50's, and beyond. She explores the connection between emotions and skin issues, the role of the nervous system in skin health, and the impact of hormones on breakouts. She also provides tips for supporting the liver, gut health, and the immune system, as well as the importance of a balanced diet and blood sugar regulation. The episode emphasizes the interconnectedness of various factors in maintaining healthy skin. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stratum.substack.com

In this episode, part 1 of 2, Emily discusses the common issue of experiencing breakouts and wrinkles at the same time. She explains the physical factors that contribute to acne, such as excess oil, clogged pores, bacterial overgrowth, and static wrinkles, a breakdown of collagen and elastin. She highlights the importance of supporting the skin's barrier and microbiome to reduce both. She discusses her general recommendations for skincare (please understand that this is not personalized advice). Emily discusses products that she recommends, you can find her entire curated skincare shop on her website here: https://stratumaesthetics.com/collectionsHang out with her on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/stratumaesthetics/Find Emily on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCY3I84QTWRiIMhsnxnd8Vmg This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stratum.substack.com

In this conversation, Emily interviews Layne Walker L.Ac., an acupuncturist and licensed herbalist, about Chinese medicine and its influence on the summer season. Layne shares her personal journey of becoming an acupuncturist and how Chinese medicine transformed her health. They discuss cosmetic acupuncture and its benefits for various skin concerns. They also delve into living seasonally according to traditional Chinese medicine, focusing on the summer season and its impact on the heart and small intestine. Layne provides recommendations for supporting health during the summer, including eating seasonally, incorporating bitter foods, and staying hydrated. They also touch on the late summer season and the importance of balancing digestion. The conversation concludes with information on connecting with Layne for acupuncture treatments.You can find out more about Layne and book an appointment with her on her website: https://www.onyxacu.com/Plus, connect with her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onyxacu/To connect with Emily, head to: https://stratumaesthetics.com/and find her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stratumaesthetics/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCY3I84QTWRiIMhsnxnd8VmgTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@stratumaesthetics This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stratum.substack.com

In this episode, Emily discusses ways to keep the lymphatic system healthy and flowing. She shares seven strategies that can be incorporated into daily lifestyle to support lymphatic health, including moving the body, deep breathing, using castor oil packs, dry brushing, staying hydrated, using lymphatic herbs, and practicing hot and cold therapy. Emily provides explanations and tips for each strategy, emphasizing the importance of personalized approaches and self-care.Find Emily’s favorite products including The Lymph Brush here: https://stratumaesthetics.com/Hang out with Emily on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stratumaesthetics/Check out Emily’s YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCY3I84QTWRiIMhsnxnd8Vmg This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stratum.substack.com

In this episode, Emily discusses congested skin and provides holistic approaches to managing blackheads and sebaceous filaments. She explains the difference between blackheads and sebaceous filaments and how they form. Emily also explores Chinese face mapping and how congestion in different areas of the face may signify issues in corresponding organs or systems. She shares holistic treatments such as oil cleansing, face steaming, honey masks, clay masks, and enzymatic exfoliation. Lastly, she emphasizes the importance of lymphatic drainage for healthy skin.You can shop the products that Emily talks about in the episode here: https://stratumaesthetics.com/collections/all This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stratum.substack.com

In this episode, Emily discusses the concept of aging with vitality rather than “anti-aging” and shares strategies for a positive mindset around aging. She emphasizes the importance of observing exposure, incorporating facial massage, practicing bodily alignment, monitoring self-talk, and using flower essences for emotional healing.You can check our her website along with skincare products and all other offerings at: https://stratumaesthetics.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stratum.substack.com

In this episode, Emily shares six lessons learned from running her business for six years. The lessons include understanding and nurturing the different hats of a business owner, cultivating confidence, developing trust in oneself, fostering an abundance mindset, embracing simplicity as luxury, and realizing that one is never stuck. Emily provides insights and personal experiences for each lesson, offering advice and recommendations for business owners or those interested in starting a business.Resources:Affiliate Links: The Pathway by To Be Magnetic: https://login.tobemagnetic.com/a/2147524106/dJt6ZSNT (payment plan)https://login.tobemagnetic.com/a/2147524155/dJt6ZSNT (pay in full)code: EMILY3345 for 15% offManifest Your Wealth: https://thefunktionalnutritionist.mykajabi.com/a/2147833954/cCx8FbpPBooks Discussed: E-Myth Revisited: Why Most Small Businesses Don't Work and What to Do About It by Micheal GerberEssentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Gre McKeownBig Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth GilbertShop goods and skincare curated by Emily: https://stratumaesthetics.com/Find her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stratumaesthetics/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCY3I84QTWRiIMhsnxnd8Vmg This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stratum.substack.com

In this episode, Emily discusses face cupping, a treatment that she frequently uses in her professional treatments and on her own skin. She explains that face cupping is an inverted facial massage that utilizes cups to create a vacuum suction on the skin, pulling the tissue upwards. This modality helps increase blood flow, stimulate lymphatic movement, and promote collagen and elastin production. Emily also provides information on who should avoid face cupping and the benefits of the practice. She shares tips on how to do face cupping, including using facial oil and different cupping techniques. Lastly, she discusses cupping marks and suggests how to fade them faster.Purchase face cups from Emily’s website here: https://stratumaesthetics.com/collections/facial-tools/products/skin-earth-vitality-stratum-aesthetics-facial-cups?variant=40797445881991Takeaways:* Face cupping is an effective modality that can improve the appearance and health of the skin.* It increases blood flow, stimulates lymphatic movement, and promotes collagen and elastin production.* Certain individuals should avoid face cupping, such as those with recent facial injections, active acne lesions, broken or irritated skin, and certain medical conditions.* Face cupping can help reduce puffiness, double chin, under-eye bags, and fine lines and wrinkles.* To do face cupping, start with freshly cleansed skin, apply facial oil for slip, and use small cups to create a vacuum and gently move them across the face.* Cupping marks can occur but can fade faster by staying hydrated, doing gentle facial massage, applying warm compress, using arnica gel or cream, and engaging in gentle exercise.* Thoroughly clean facial cupping tools between each use to avoid transferring bacteria.Chapters:00:00Introduction to Skin, Earth, Vitality03:24 What is Face Cupping?10:31Contraindications and Precautions12:26Benefits of Face Cupping15:12Where to Get Cups and How to Do Face Cupping27:50Wrap-up and ConclusionCheck out this video tutorial for face cupping here: https://www.youtube.com/@stratumaestheticsYou can find Emily’s website with all other products and links to her social pages and blogs here: https://stratumaesthetics.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stratum.substack.com