Skincredible

Elizabeth Swanson, M.D.

Skin education for ALL! A board-certified pediatric dermatologist (skin doctor) combats social media misinformation for YOU.  Informative, fun, and clear episodes that debunk myths, explain real science, and help patients and parents make confident decisions about their skin and their child’s skin. No fluff. No fear. Just facts. Dr. Lisa Swanson is a board-certified dermatologist and pediatric dermatologist.  After going to college at the University of Colorado at Boulder, she obtained her medical degree from Tulane University School of Medicine in New Orleans.  She performed her dermatology residency at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota.   After that, she completed a fellowship in Pediatric Dermatology at Phoenix Children’s Hospital in Arizona.  She was in private practice in Colorado for a decade and then moved to Boise, Idaho in summer 2020 to become the first and only pediatric dermatologist in the state of Idaho. She is active in local and national medical societies and organizations. She loves lecturing at conferences discussing pediatric dermatology with audiences across the country.  Since moving to Idaho, she works in private practice at Ada West Dermatology and she is also on staff at St Luke’s Children’s Hospital.  In her spare time, she enjoys binge watching television shows with her boyfriend Larry and cuddling with her 2 doggies Mosby and Maggie.

  1. 1 day ago ·  Video

    The Skinny on GLPs in Dermatology with Dr. Jennifer Soung

    In this episode of the Skincredible podcast, you'll be able to discover the surprising links between GLP medications, inflammation, and skin health. This eye-opening episode features a very experienced dermatologist: Dr. Jennifer Soung. Dr. Soung practices at Southern California Dermatology in California, specializing in medical dermatology and clinical research. She and Dr. Lisa Swanson discuss how these drugs, originally designed for weight management and diabetes, are showing promising anti-inflammatory effects that could revolutionize treatments for psoriasis and hidradenitis suppurativa. You’ll learn how systemic inflammation fuels autoimmune skin conditions, and why addressing the whole body (beyond just the skin) is essential for effective long-term control. Dr. Soung shares her firsthand insights from clinical trials and her unique perspective on the connection between obesity, inflammation, and skin disease, revealing how GLPs may be revolutionary in dermatology. This episode breaks down the science into practical approaches for safe medication use, side effect management, and strategies to incorporate behavioral health and lifestyle changes. Whether you’re a dermatologist, researcher, patient, or curious listener, you’ll gain knowledge about the future of inflammation-focused treatments and how they might help you, or your patients, feel healthier and more confident. Perfectly crafted for healthcare professionals and health-conscious individuals eager to stay ahead in medical innovation, don’t miss this essential conversation that blends science with real-world impact. You are sure to be inspired by the multidimensional approach to health! Keywords Dermatology, GLP, peptides, Ozempic, Semiglutide, Retatrutide, tirzepatide, Mounjaro, Wegovy, Zepbound, HS, Hidradenitis suppurativa, psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, inflammation, weight loss, weight management, weight control, appetite suppression, ozempic blues, depression, Dulaglutide, Liraglutide, Saxenda, Victoza, Rybelsus, Diabetes, Hypertension, High blood pressure, insulin resistance, Trulicity, Exenatide, Bydureon BCise, Byetta, Adlyxin, Lixisenatide Links, Attachments More on Dr. Soung: http://www.jennifersoungmd.com More information regarding Taltz/Zepbound discount program (no affiliation): https://taltz.lilly.com/savings-support#zepbound-savings-for-taltz-patients Chapters 00:00 Intro and Welcome 01:00 Dr. Jennifer Soung: Dermatologist and Clinical Researcher 04:00 Everyone is on GLPs  06:00 Having Cake For Breakfast Isn’t Healthy 07:30 Teaching Teenage Girls Healthy Body Image 09:08 It Takes 20 Mins for Natural GLP to Tell us We Are Full 11:00 Food is More than Nourishment, Food Counseling 12:00 Using GLPs For Skin: Psoriasis, Hidradenitis Suprativa 14:40 Fat Cells and Inflammation 15:30 Asking Permission to Talk Weight Management 17:00 Direct and Indirect Benefits of GLPs 18:30 Comorbidities of Disease 20:30 Zepbound and Taltz in Conjunction 22:50 Most Common Side Effects of GLPs 24:30 1 Pound 1 Week, Lifestyle Changes 25:30 Psychology: 66 Days to Become a Habit 27:00 Contraindications with GLPs 29:00 Ozempic Blues, Mood Changes 31:45 Rapid Fire Questions for Dr. Soung 36:40 Thank you and Goodbye  Send us Fan Mail The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always consult your  physician regarding your health.

    The Skinny on GLPs in Dermatology with Dr. Jennifer Soung
  2. 21 Jul ·  Video

    Brielle's Inspiring Vitiligo Story: "I'm Famous!"

    Description  In this joyous episode of the Skincredible podcast, Dr. Lisa Swanson sits down with Brielle and her parents, Randi and Mark, to share their family's journey with childhood vitiligo. Diagnosed at just two years old, Brielle has grown into a confident, funny, and resilient young girl who proudly says, "It's beautiful," when asked about her skin. Together, they discuss the emotional roller coaster of receiving a diagnosis, navigating misinformation, finding the right medical team, and balancing treatment with unconditional self-acceptance. Randi and Mark share the challenges of making treatment decisions for a young child while empowering Brielle to love herself every step of the way, including gifting her teachers a vitiligo book at the start of every school year to read with the class. You'll also hear about the life-changing impact of Camp Victory, the importance of representation through dolls, books, and role models like Winnie Harlow, and the everyday moments that have helped Brielle build confidence. She has learned to answer other people's questions about her skin, how to take charge of her own treatment routine, and even how to be mindful about her own curiosity when seeing children who look or act differently than she's used to. If you're a parent of a child with vitiligo, someone living with a skin condition, or simply looking for an inspiring conversation about resilience, community, and embracing what makes us unique, this episode is full of wisdom, honesty, and hope. This conversation is a powerful reminder that confidence doesn't come from skin that is perceived as "perfect." It comes from feeling loved, supported, and empowered to be exactly who you are. Keywords Dermatology, Oral Steroids, Topical Corticosteroids, Tacrolimus, Pimecrolimus, Opzelura, Vitiligo, Light Therapy, Sunlight, TSW, Excimer, Narrowband Light, Heliocare, Pulsed Dose Steroids, Oral JAK Inhibitors, Depigmentation, Hypopigmentation, Xeljanz, Koebner phenomenon, confetti depigmentation, Rinvoq, Litfulo, Povorcitinib, Camp Victory Links, Attachments Global Vitiligo Foundation’s Camp Victory: https://globalvitiligofoundation.org/camp-victory/ Book Mentioned by Brielle’s Parents on Amazon (NOT affiliated): https://www.amazon.com/dp/0063119978?lv=shuf&channelId=500&plpRedirect=mhFallback  Chapters 00:00 A Special Message For NPs and PAs 02:19 Intro and Welcome to Brielle 04:10 “I’m Famous at My School”  05:00 Brielle’s Diagnosis and Starting to Treat Vitiligo 08:00 Winnie Harlow & Michael Jackson Affected by Vitiligo 09:36 Parents Empowering Their Children, Positive Energy 11:00 Brielle’s First Memory of Vitiligo 12:40 Friends as Advocates, New Environments 14:06 Representation of Vitiligo in Dolls and Toys 16:00 Undue Stress Due to Misinformation 19:00 Importance of Experience in Conditions in Trusting Practitioners 21:00 Seeking a Second Opinion 22:45 Camp Victory: A Skin Party 29:30 Spicy Pickles 31:00 Balancing Treatments, Confidence & Side Effects 37:00 Advice for Taking Pills, Heliocare 41:00 Blood Draws 43:00 Parental Words of Wisdom & Advice for Other Parents 46:30 Curiosity and Other People’s Comments 48:00 Thank you and Goodbye Send us Fan Mail The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always consult your  physician regarding your health.

    Brielle's Inspiring Vitiligo Story: "I'm Famous!"
  3. 13 Jul ·  Video

    Vitiligo Treatments: What’s Available Now & What Is Coming In the Future

    In this episode of Skincredible, we discuss how vitiligo care has changed dramatically in just the past few years. Now, there are treatments available to help restore pigment and offer real hope to patients and families, whereas in past years treatments were extremely limited. Dr. Lisa Swanson takes a deep dive into everything you need to know about modern vitiligotreatment. She discusses that it is perfectly okay to embrace and observe vitiligo if that's what the patient would like, why early treatment is so important if patients do decide to treat, and what realistic expectations look like throughout the repigmentation journey. Topics include: The three goals of vitiligo treatment: stopping progression, restoring pigment, and maintaining results.How repigmentation happens and why photos are an essential part of tracking progress.Traditional therapies like topical steroids and calcineurin inhibitors, and how they compare to newer treatments.How Opzelura® (ruxolitinib cream) has transformed vitiligo care, especially for facial involvement.The important role of sunlight and light therapy, including narrowband UVB, excimer laser, and home phototherapy units.Why combining treatments often produces the best results.Oral medications used for rapidly progressing vitiligo and exciting new JAK inhibitors currently on the horizon.Emerging treatments, including biologic medications and surgical pigment-restoration techniques.Long-term maintenance strategies Why depigmentation is more of a last-resort option.Common insurance challenges, practical treatment tips, and how to navigate the path to newer therapies.Dr. Swanson also shares a powerful patient story that highlight just how life-changing successful vitiligo treatment can be. If you, your child or someone you love is dealing with vitiligo, there is HOPE! If you're a healthcare provider looking to better support your patients, this episode offers the latest evidence-based information, practical guidance, and a hopeful look at the future of vitiligo care.   Additional Links Panp360.org/boston use code “SKINCREDIBLE” for free registration Keywords Dermatology, Marginal Repigmentation, Perifollicular Repigmentation, Difuse Repigmentation, Combined Repigmentation, Topical Corticosteroids, Tacrolimus, Pimecrolimus, Opzelura, Vitiligo, Light Therapy, Sunlight, TSW, Excimer, Narrowband Light, Heliocare, Pulsed Dose Steriods, Oral JAK Inhibitors, Surgery, Depigmentation, Xeljanz, Koebner phenomenon, confetti depigmentation, trichrome pattern depigmentation, Rinvoq, Litfulo, Povorcitinib, Vitiligo Surgery, Skin Graft, Suction Blister Grafting, Punch Biopsy Grafting, Split Thickness Skin Graft, Marginal depigmentation, Segmental vitiligo, non segmental vitiligo, Monobenzyl ether of hydroquinone (MBEH), monobenzone Chapters 00:00 Special PANP360 Meeting Announcement for NPs and PAs 02:05 Welcome, Vitiligo Treatments  03:50 Our Differences Make Us Special, Life Lessons 06:30 JUMP Shoutout Boise, Idaho 07:00 To Watch or Treat Vitiligo 08:30 Repigmentation Signals to Look For 10:00 Topical Steroids 12:30 Topical Steroid Withdrawal TSW 15:40 Topical Calcineurin Inhibitors: Tacrolimus, Pimecrolimus 18:40 Topical Opzelura 21:40 Mom With Vitiligo: You Gave Me My Face & Life Back 24:30 Light Therapy & Heliocare 26:30 Vitiligo and Decreased Risk of Skin Cancer 27:00 PUVA In the Past 28:00 Light Therapy 30:00 Narrowband, Excimer and Home Light Therapy 32:00 Oral Pulsed Dose Steroids  34:18 Oral JAK Inhibitors 35:00 Coming Soon: Rinvoq, Litfulo, Povorcitinib 36:00 Biologics Coming Soon 37:15: Surgery  40:00 Segmental vs. Non Segmental Vitiligo 41:00 Tacrolimus for Maintenance 42:00 Never Lose Hope 43:00 Depigmentation, Michael Jackson 44:00 Monobenzyl ether of hydroquinone (MBEH) 45:00 Accept Each Other, It’s Not Your Fault 46:12 Thank You & Goodbye Send us Fan Mail The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always consult your  physician regarding your health.

    Vitiligo Treatments: What’s Available Now & What Is Coming In the Future
  4. 6 Jul ·  Video

    Vitiligo: Dr. Swanson Explains Everything You Need to Know

    Vitiligo is far more common than many people realize, yet it's often misunderstood. In this episode of the Skincredible Podcast, Dr. Lisa Swanson breaks down the science behind vitiligo in a way that's easy to understand. We’ll discuss types of vitiligo, how dermatologists diagnose it and why early evaluation matters. In this episode, you will learn how vitiligo differs from other causes of light patches on the skin (including pityriasis alba and tinea versicolor) and discover the differences between segmental and non-segmental vitiligo. Dr. Swanson also explains the autoimmune process behind pigment loss, genetic risk, and the connection between vitiligo and other autoimmune conditions. The conversation also explores the emotional and social impact of living with vitiligo, addressing common misconceptions, cultural stigma, and why vitiligo should never be considered "just cosmetic." Finally, Dr. Swanson shares which factors can influence prognosis and offers reassurance that treatment has advanced dramatically in recent years. This episode lays the foundation for next week's deep dive into vitiligo treatments—and why there's more reason for hope than ever before! In this episode, you'll learn: What vitiligo is, types of vitiligo and why it developsHow dermatologists distinguish vitiligo from other light patches on the skinThe differences between segmental and non-segmental vitiligoGenetics, and associated autoimmune conditionsWhy early diagnosis and treatment are importantThe emotional and psychological impact of vitiligoWhat affects prognosis and what today's treatment landscape looks likeKeywords Vitiligo, Pityriasis alba, Tinea Versicolor, Depigmented Skin, Hypopigmented Skin, Skin, Dermatology, Pigment Loss, Segmental Vitiligo, Non-Segmental Vitiligo, Michael Jackson Send us Fan Mail The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always consult your  physician regarding your health.

    Vitiligo: Dr. Swanson Explains Everything You Need to Know
  5. 29 Jun

    Do Hair Growth Supplements Actually Work? Dr. Amy Spizuoco Explains

    Are hair growth supplements (referred to as “nutraceuticals” or “trichoceuticals” in this episode) worth the investment? Which ingredients have science behind them, and what do they actually cost? In this episode of Skincredible, Dr. Lisa Swanson sits down with board-certified dermatologist and dermatopathologist Dr. Amy Spizuoco to unpack the rapidly growing world of hair-loss nutraceuticals. Together, they discuss ingredients in popular products like Nutrafol, Viviscal, Wellbel, and Xtressé. They also discuss the rise and fall of biotin supplementation, and explain how ingredients like saw palmetto, ashwagandha, pumpkin seed extract, and NAD+ may support hair growth. In this episode, Dr. Swanson and Dr. Spizuoco also explore common causes of hair shedding, including: telogen effluvium, postpartum hair loss, and GLP-1-related hair changes, and discuss practical strategies for supporting hair health during stressful life events. Dr. Spizuoco shares how she incorporates supplements alongside treatments such as oral minoxidil, compounded topical therapies, low-level laser devices, and platelet-rich plasma (PRP). Plus, stay tuned for a fun rapid-fire round covering New York City life, coffee habits, flying preferences, astronaut dreams, and whether life in Manhattan is really as glamorous as it looks on TV. In this episode, you'll learn: • Why dermatologists have become more cautious about biotin supplementation • The differences between Nutrafol, Viviscal, Wellbel, and Xtressé • Which supplement ingredients have the strongest evidence for hair growth • How GLP-1 medications can impact hair health • What PRP treatments involve and who may benefit from them • How dermatologists approach androgenetic alopecia and telogen effluvium Whether you're experiencing hair thinning yourself or simply curious about the latest advances in hair vitamins, this episode delivers practical, evidence-based insights from two highly knowledgeable and board-certified dermatologists. Keywords Dermatology, hair loss, alopecia, alopecia totalis, alopecia universalis, alopecia areata, telogen effluvium, hair, skin, nutrafol, viviscal, wellbel, xtresse, vitamins, hair vitamins, glp-1, peptides, prp, platelet rich plasma, vegamour, pumpkin seed, NAD+, ashwagandha, saw palmetto Links, Attachments Dr. Spizuoco’s conference: https://dermvipsummit.com/ Dr. Spizuoco’s biography: https://true-dermatology.com/about/meet-dr-spizuoco  Nutrafol: https://nutrafol.com/  Viviscal: https://www.viviscal.com  Wellbel: https://wellbel.com/  Xtressé: https://xtresse.com   Vegamour: https://vegamour.com/  Chapters 00:00 Intro & Welcome Dr. Amy Spizuoco 02:00 DermVIP Summit 03:46 Biotin In the Past 07:03 Any Tricks to Try to “Prevent” Telogen Effluvium 08:48 Four Products With the Most Science  10:33 AminoMar, Marine Complex 11:06 Saw Palmetto 13:33 Mechanism of Action 15:25 Pricing 16:44 Side Effects 18:09 Monotherapy vs. Multiple Modalities 19:40 Full Court Press Approach 20:34 PRP Platelet Rich Plasma 25:00 Exosomes 28:00 Rapid Fire Send us Fan Mail The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always consult your  physician regarding your health.

    Do Hair Growth Supplements Actually Work? Dr. Amy Spizuoco Explains
  6. 22 Jun

    Alopecia, GLP-1s, and the Truth About Red Light Devices with Dr. Michelle Tarbox

    This week on Skincredible, Dr. Lisa Swanson sits down with Dr. Michelle Tarbox  for a deep dive into hair loss that goes way beyond “is it falling out?” Dr. Tarbox is associate professor of dermatology and dermatopathology at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center and co-host of the Dermasphere Podcast! Fun fact-- her identical twin sister is an opera singer performing across Europe.  They start with diagnosis: why pattern is the first and most important clue, how a “swarm of bees” attacking follicular melanocytes causes hair shafts to thin and narrow over time in alopecia areata, and the key question that separates telogen effluvium from androgenetic alopecia — are you seeing, feeling, or catching hair coming out, or just noticing it’s thinner over time? From there, a thorough look at GLP-1 related hair loss: why it happens, the emerging retatrutide (which targets both GLP-1 and GIP), the dysmorphia concerns around extreme weight loss, and Dr. Tarbox’s reminder that patients should always tell their doctors what they’re taking because “we don’t judge, we just need to know.” They  discuss getting enough protein and the right vitamins to fill nutritional holes, and why hair loss can act as a canary in the mine for patients hoping to stay on their GLP-1. On the OTC and device front: which supplement has the best data and price point (Viviscal, reviewed in an article on Dermasphere), a rundown of red light therapy devices (the Hairmax laser comb, iRestore vs. Revlon Red, why Theradome isn’t recommended, and capless options that need a power supply), and the science of why red light works — it’s attracted to copper ions, kickstarts senescent cells, decreases DHT, and improves blood flow. They also cover scalp massage, fingers vs. the “Comfier” device from Amazon, and a fair worry about head fires. The conversation moves into JAK inhibitors as a game-changer for alopecia areata, the frustrating reality of insurance companies labeling it “cosmetic” despite the real burden it places on patients, and how hair loss is portrayed in media. They get into scalp micropigmentation (“drug tattooing”) — including the epinephrine science behind it, what a typical treatment series costs and involves (three treatments back-to-back, paired with oral or light-based support), and how Dr. Tarbox chooses between anti-androgens like spironolactone and finasteride depending on the patient. Dr. Tarbox’s PSA for anyone googling hair loss: those miracle-growth ads aren’t real (cue a tangent about the cult movie The Peanut Butter Solution) — get diagnosed and come in early, because it’s far easier to maintain hair than regrow it. Plus, a rapid-fire round: paper vs. digital calendars, guilty-pleasure reality TV, lottery dreams, ideal dinner time, and — naturally, given the Texas Tech connection — predictions on when Taylor and Travis are finally tying the knot. Keywords Dermatology, Alopecia, Alopecia Areata, JAK Inhibitors, Hair Loss, GLP-1, Peptides, Anti Androgens, Dutasteride, Finasteride, Spironolactone, Minoxidil, Rogaine, The Peanut Butter Solution, Scalp Massage, Red Light Therapy, Vitamins, Nutraceuticals, Viviscal, Nutrafol, Opera, Travis Kelce, Taylor Swift Links, Attachments More about Dr. Tarbox: https://providers.texastechphysicians.com/provider/michelle-tarbox/2676236  Dermasphere Podcast:  https://www.dermaspherepodcast.com/ Chapters 00:00 Intro and Welcome Dr. Michelle Tarbox 02:35 Alopecia Clinical Observations  06:29 How Important is Time in Alopecia? 08:38 GLP-1 Related Hair Loss 14:38 GLP-1 Related Body Dysmorphia 16:32 For Patients Experiencing GLP-1 Hair Loss 18:50 Over the Counter Recommendations  21:18 Red Light Therapy 24:17 Science of Red Light 25:39 Dermal Stretching & Hair Growth 29:23 Alopecia Areata & JAK Inhibitors 32:30 The Lost Years with Alopecia Areata  33:20 Insurance Calling Alopecia  34:45 What Dr. Tarbox Wishes Patients Knew About Alopecia 36:50 False Ads for Vitamins That Do Not Work 39:00 Drug Tattooing 44:40 Anti Androgen Therapies 48:30 Rapid Fire Questions  53:26 Like/Subscribe/Follow, Thanks & Goodbye Send us Fan Mail The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always consult your  physician regarding your health.

    Alopecia, GLP-1s, and the Truth About Red Light Devices with Dr. Michelle Tarbox
  7. 15 Jun

    Skincredible Humans: Behind the Scenes with Anna and Olivia

    In this special behind-the-scenes episode of the Skincredible Podcast, Dr. Lisa Swanson welcomes her two medical assistants, Olivia and Anna, for a candid conversation about life in pediatric dermatology. They share how they found their way into dermatology, what they love most about working with children and families, and the rewarding experience of watching young patients gain confidence as their skin conditions improve. The team discusses common misconceptions about pediatric skin conditions, including eczema, molluscum, warts, and birthmarks, while offering reassurance and practical insights for parents navigating these challenges. They also reflect on the emotional side of caring for children, the importance of building trust with families, and the unique joys (and occasional challenges) of pediatric dermatology. To wrap up the episode, Olivia and Anna put their knowledge of Dr. Swanson to the test in a fun game of “How Well Do You Know Dr. Swanson?”, featuring questions about Bluey, coffee orders, favorite animals, reality TV, and more. Filled with laughter, heartfelt stories, and plenty of pediatric dermatology wisdom, this episode offers listeners a fun and personal look at the team behind the clinic. Keywords Dermatology, Medical Assistant, Skin, Patients, Patient Care, Pediatric, Medical Care, Medical Team, Dermatology Practice, Warts, Bluey, Dr. Pimple Popper, Dr. Sandra Lee, Cystic Acne, Medical Care, Healthcare, Healthcare Careers Links, Attachments Image Source For Sperm Whales: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/photography/article/sperm-whales-nap-sleeping-photography-spd YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@weareskincredible Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/skincrediblepod  X: https://x.com/Skincrediblepod Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/skincrediblepod/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/skincrediblepod/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5OPa1pfmGldcQGs8IE7nFb  Podcast website: https://skincredible.buzzsprout.com Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/skincredible/id1866567434 Chapters 00:00 Intro & Welcome: Olivia & Anna 01:55 How Olivia & Anna Ended Up In Dermatology 02:56 A Message to Olivia From Dr. Pimple Popper 05:30 Dr. Swanson’s Trivia Tradition During Talks 07:30 Female Dermatologists & Eldest Daughters 08:50 Favorite Parts of Pediatric Dermatology 12:25 The Team You Work With Matters 14:30 Helping Kids Feel Comfortable in Clinic 16:00 Buzzy Between the Brain and the Pain 17:00 We Believe in Bees, But They Do Sting 19:30 Least Favorite Parts of Pediatric Dermatology 25:00 Differences Make Us Special 27:20 If You Could Tell Parents ONE Thing 34:00 How Well Do You Know Dr. Swanson 35:28 Dr. Swanson’s Favorite Bluey Character 36:25 Dr. Swanson’s Favorite Starbucks Drink 37:40 Dr. Swanson’s Current OTC Favorite Ingredient  38:45 Dr. Swanson’s Dog’s Names 39:15 Dr. Swanson’s Favorite Wart Treatment 40:35 Dr. Swanson’s Favorite Ocean Animal 41:55 Dr. Swanson’s Favorite Land Animal 43:04: Dr. Swanson’s Daily Lunch 43:44 Dr. Swanson’s Boy Biopsy Requirement 45:00 Dr. Swanson’s Favorite Reality TV Show 47:30 Dr. Swanson’s Frustration Indicator 49:10 Dr. Swanson’s Favorite Bluey Episode 51:00 Appreciation and Goodbye Send us Fan Mail The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always consult your  physician regarding your health.

    Skincredible Humans:  Behind the Scenes with Anna and Olivia
  8. 8 Jun

    A Hair Loss Journey with a Fairytale Ending: Stephanie’s Story

    Description  In this moving episode of the Skincredible Podcast, Dr. Lisa Swanson sits down with Steve and Katy to share their daughter Stephanie’s journey with alopecia areata. They chat about what it was like to notice the first unexpected bald spot at age two, about navigating treatments, fears, setbacks, and ultimately finding hope. These parents open up about the emotional toll of watching their child lose her hair, the uncertainty that comes with an autoimmune diagnosis, and the difficult decisions involved in starting advanced treatments like JAK inhibitors at such a young age. Along the way, they discuss the realities of parenting through chronic illness, the anxiety fueled by internet misinformation, and the importance of finding trusted medical guidance. Most importantly, this episode highlights Stephanie herself. She is a resilient, joyful little girl whose confidence and strength remind us all that we are so much more than our appearance. This conversation offers encouragement, practical insight, and reassurance for families facing alopecia areata or any chronic childhood condition. There’s emotional vulnerability and hopeful breakthroughs, hopefully helping others who are struggling feel less alone in their own journey. Topics include: Understanding alopecia areata in childrenThe emotional impact on parents and familiesTreatment options, including topical therapies and JAK inhibitorsManaging fear, uncertainty, and setbacksHelping children build confidence and resilienceThe dangers of internet misinformationWhy support, communication, and hope matter so much Keywords Dermatology, Hair Loss, Alopecia, Alopecia Areata, Alopecia Totalis, Alopecia Universalis, Diffuse Alopecia, Loose Anagen Alopecia, Traction Alopecia, Hair, Skin, Skin Expert, Dermatologist, JAK inhibitors, Minoxidil, Oral Minoxidil, Allegra, Pulse Prednisone, Prednisone, Olumiant Links, Attachments NAAF: https://www.naaf.org Chapters 00:00 Intro & Welcome 00:44 Discovering Stephanie’s Alopecia Areata 03:00 Initial Reactions and Treatment Options 04:26 Three Potential Alopecia Areata Courses 06:00 Prednisone, Topicals, Oral Minoxidil, Vit D, Allegra 07:00 Discussing JAK Inhibitors: Olumiant 11:30 Stephanie Starts Olumiant 14:14 The Emotional Process of Alopecia 16:30 Stephanie’s Tips on Swallowing Pills 19:00 Stephanie Gets a Haircut 20:45 Parents’ Experience As Hair Grew Back 26:00 Set Backs During Therapy 31:00 Uncertainty, Off Label Use of Medication 33:30 Combating Online Misinformation 34:45 Advice From Parent to Parent 40:45 Writing Your Concerns Down 42:30 Stephanie’s Advice For Other Kids 43:40 Thank You & Goodbye Send us Fan Mail The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always consult your  physician regarding your health.

    A Hair Loss Journey with a Fairytale Ending: Stephanie’s Story

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About

Skin education for ALL! A board-certified pediatric dermatologist (skin doctor) combats social media misinformation for YOU.  Informative, fun, and clear episodes that debunk myths, explain real science, and help patients and parents make confident decisions about their skin and their child’s skin. No fluff. No fear. Just facts. Dr. Lisa Swanson is a board-certified dermatologist and pediatric dermatologist.  After going to college at the University of Colorado at Boulder, she obtained her medical degree from Tulane University School of Medicine in New Orleans.  She performed her dermatology residency at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota.   After that, she completed a fellowship in Pediatric Dermatology at Phoenix Children’s Hospital in Arizona.  She was in private practice in Colorado for a decade and then moved to Boise, Idaho in summer 2020 to become the first and only pediatric dermatologist in the state of Idaho. She is active in local and national medical societies and organizations. She loves lecturing at conferences discussing pediatric dermatology with audiences across the country.  Since moving to Idaho, she works in private practice at Ada West Dermatology and she is also on staff at St Luke’s Children’s Hospital.  In her spare time, she enjoys binge watching television shows with her boyfriend Larry and cuddling with her 2 doggies Mosby and Maggie.

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