Skincredible

Elizabeth Swanson, M.D.

A board-certified pediatric dermatologist cuts through the chaos of social media skincare advice. 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. Alopecia, GLP-1s, and the Truth About Red Light Devices with Dr. Michelle Tarbox

    4 days ago

    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.

    54 min
  2. Skincredible Humans: Behind the Scenes with Anna and Olivia

    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.

    52 min
  3. A Hair Loss Journey with a Fairytale Ending: Stephanie’s Story

    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.

    44 min
  4. Alopecia Treatments: Hope For The Hopeless

    1 Jun

    Alopecia Treatments: Hope For The Hopeless

    You may be wondering, “what are the best treatments for alopecia areata? Can hair grow back after alopecia areata? Are JAK inhibitors safe?” In this episode of the Skincredible Podcast, Dr. Lisa Swanson takes a comprehensive look at the latest alopecia areata treatments, from traditional therapies to cutting-edge medications that are truly changing lives in a world where treatments used to be very limited. This episode will help you stay up-to-date on treatments available as of May of 2026 for Alopecia Areata and it will also help you discover why early intervention has shown to lead to better results. Dr. Swanson reviews the most effective treatment options for both children and adults, including observation, topical therapies like Minoxidil and Clobetasol, intralesional steroids, vitamin D, Allegra, Dupixent, pulse Prednisone, low dose oral Minoxidil, contact sensitizers such as Dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB), Squaric Acid, Diphencyprone (DPCP), and JAK inhibitors. The episode also explores in detail the exciting new era of JAK inhibitors for alopecia areata, including Olumiant (baricitinib), Litfulo (ritlecitinib), Leqselvi (deuruxolitinib), and the upcoming approval of Rinvoq (upadacitinib). Dr. Swanson explains how these medications work, who may be a candidate, who may not be, required blood work and monitoring, common side effects, safety considerations, insurance challenges, and what patients can realistically expect when it comes to hair regrowth in general. You'll also hear Dr. Swanson’s valuable insights on popular hair loss remedies frequently discussed online, including rosemary oil, garlic, essential oils, capsaicin, PRP (platelet-rich plasma), red light therapy, laser therapy, cryotherapy, and PUVA treatment. Whether you're living with alopecia areata, caring for a child with hair loss, or a healthcare professional looking to stay current on the latest advances, this episode provides practical guidance, expert insights, and hope for patients navigating autoimmune hair loss. 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, Olumiant, Litfulo, Leqselvi, Rinvoq, Minoxidil, Hair Regrowth, Autoimmune Disease, Alopecia Totalis, Alopecia Universalis, Dupixent, Vitamin D, Allegra, Contact Sensitizers, Dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB), Squaric Acid, Diphencyprone (DPCP),  Links, Attachments NAAF: https://www.naaf.org Find a Pediatric Dermatologist near you: https://pedsderm.net/for-patients-families/find-a-pediatric-dermatologist/ Find an Adult Dermatologist near you: https://find-a-derm.aad.org/  Chapters 00:00 Welcome, A Side Note About Breast MRIs  04:25 Alopecia Areata Treatments 04:52 Observation, Especially in Pediatric Patients 05:39 Topical Steroids at Bedtime and Topical Minoxidil in Morning 09:00 Kids Do Better On Treatments 10:07 Follow Up and Expectations From Treatment 11:30 Intralesional Steroids 13:40 AAD or Society for Pediatric Dermatology Lookup 14:50 Vitamin D and Allegra Over The Counter 17:00 Dupixent 20:00 Pulse Prednisone 21:05 Oral Minoxidil 23:15 Safety Label on Minoxidil 24:30 Contact Sensitizers 27:00 JAK Inhibitors & Alopecia Discovery 30:00 Quality of Life Improvement with Treatment 31:20 Olumiant 33:05 Litfulo  36:15 Leqselvi 37:00 Labs Checked With JAK Inhibitors 39:00 Safety Warnings 40:40 The 4 Cs 44:00 Coming Soon: Rinvoq 46:50 The Importance of JAK Inhibitors & Early Intervention 51:30 Natural Remidies and Social Media Trends 53:30 Excimer Laser & PUVA 55:00 Red Light 56:00 Conclusion 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.

    58 min
  5. Alopecia Areata 101

    25 May

    Alopecia Areata 101

    In this episode of the Skincredible Podcast, Dr. Lisa Swanson and Ana dive into the world of alopecia areata — an autoimmune condition that causes hair loss and affects both children and adults. From patchy scalp hair loss to loss of eyebrows, eyelashes, and even body hair, Dr. Swanson breaks down the many ways alopecia can present and why it’s so much more than a “cosmetic” condition. Dr. Swanson explains the science behind alopecia areata, including how the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, the connection to stress and other autoimmune diseases, and the differences between alopecia areata, alopecia totals, alopecia universalis, telogen effluvium, traction alopecia, and loose anagen syndrome. They also discuss why hair plays such an important role in identity, confidence, and emotional well-being — especially for kids. You’ll hear practical guidance on what people should know, common misconceptions, when blood work is helpful, and why internet searches can sometimes create unnecessary fear. Most importantly, this episode offers hope: today’s treatment options for alopecia areata are more effective than ever before. Whether you’re personally affected by hair loss, supporting a loved one, or simply curious about the science of hair and skin, this compassionate and informative conversation is packed with insight. Plus — stay tuned for the next episode, where Dr. Swanson dives deep into the newest treatments changing the future of alopecia care. Keywords Dermatology, Hair Loss, Alopecia, Alopecia Areata, Alopecia Totalis, Alopecia Universalis, Diffuse Alopecia, Loose Anagen Alopecia, Traction Alopecia, Hair, Skin, Skin Expert, Dermatologist Links, Attachments National Alopecia Areata Foundation (NAAF): https://www.naaf.org Chapters 00:00 Intro & Welcome 01:00 Alopecia Areata 02:48 Autoimmune conditions 05:16 How Alopecia Areata Presents 06:53 Diffuse Alopecia, Telogen Effluvium 12:50 Treatment Options Are More Abundant Now 13:40 Resolution vs. Treatment or Progression 15:50 Eyebrow Loss 16:55 Alopecia Areata Is NOT Cosmetic 18:25 Barbie & American Girl With Alopecia 20:15 Sudden Hair Loss, Ringworm (Tinea Capitis) 22:02 Joy From Treatment 24:25 Traction Alopecia 26:00 Disney Princess For A Day 27:13 Loose Anagen 30:15 Alopecia Recap 31:00 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.

    31 min
  6. Wrinkles, Brown Spots & Skin Cancer: Why Sun Protection Matters

    18 May

    Wrinkles, Brown Spots & Skin Cancer: Why Sun Protection Matters

    In this episode of Skincredible, Dr. Swanson and Ana dive deep into one of the most important — and most misunderstood — topics in skincare: sun protection. May is Skin Cancer Awareness month, so what a better time to explore options for protection! From sunscreen myths and tanning bed dangers to mineral vs. chemical sunscreens, SPF confusion, vitamin D debates, and even viral social media trends, this episode breaks down what’s fact, what’s fiction, and what actually protects your skin. Dr. Swanson explains how UV exposure can cause skin cancer, why childhood sun exposure matters so much, and how sun damage contributes to wrinkles, brown spots, and premature aging. The conversation covers sunscreen ingredients, favorite dermatologist-approved products, protective clothing, hats, sunglasses, spray tans, Heliocare supplements, and practical ways to enjoy the outdoors while still protecting your skin.Plus: funny vacation sunburn stories, risks of contracting viruses with tanning bed use, the return campaign for COTZ Silky Foam sunscreen, a discussion about Australia’s impressive sun safety culture, and why every parent should watch the Bluey episode “The Pool.”Whether you’re a sunscreen skeptic, skincare enthusiast, outdoor adventurer, or parent trying to protect your kids, this episode is packed with practical advice, science-backed information that feels conversational and easy to apply (no sunscreen pun intended). Topics Covered:Mineral vs. chemical sunscreenSPF myths and misconceptionsTanning beds and melanoma riskSun protection for kidsVitamin D and sunlightSpray tans vs. tanning beds or sun tanning Sun-protective clothing and hatsTips for skin cancer preventionAnti-aging benefits of sunscreenHeliocare and antioxidant supportSocial media misinformationFavorite dermatologist-approved products Thanks for listening to Skin Incredible! Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who would benefit! A SPECIAL DISCOUNT CODE: Swim Zip was kind enough to offer 20% off EVERYTHING on their website for our listeners. Use the code “skincredible” at checkout at www.SwimZip.com or simply use this link to apply the code automatically: https://swimzip.com/discount/skincredible Additional links or resources  Trucker Article Reference Fortification of Foods with Vitamin D Article I; Article II Swim Zip AAD Shade Structure Grant  Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sun Protection 00:44 Personal Dermatology Stories 02:00 Understanding Sun Damage 04:00 Sunscreen Types and Controversies 11:44 Importance of SPF 16:14 Preventing Wrinkles, Sun Spots 17:22 Importance of Vitamin D 19:40 Products with Added Vitamin D 10:45 Tanning Beds 24:20 Tanning Addictions 25:00 Herpes and Genital Warts Via Tanning 28:22 Other Ways to Protect : Hats 33:22 Other Ways to Protect : SPF Clothing 37:00 Other Ways to Protect : Sunglasses  40:00 Paramedian Forehead Flap 42:00 Sun In Australia 43:15 AAD Shade Structure Grant 43:45 Bluey The Pool 45:30 Social Media Whispers: Anal Sunning  47:50 Social Media Whispers: Hormone Disruption   48:20 Social Media Whispers: Sunblocks VS. Sunscreen  48:20 Social Media Whispers: Inflammation In the Skin 50:30 Heliocare 53:20 Social Media Whispers: Homemade Sunscreen 54:00 Social Media Whispers: Coral Reef 55:56 Humans Benefit From the Outdoors 57:26 Conclusion 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.

    58 min
  7. What An Emmy-Winning Meteorologist Wants You to Know About Weather & Climate Change

    11 May

    What An Emmy-Winning Meteorologist Wants You to Know About Weather & Climate Change

    Most discussions about climate change focus on melting glaciers and rising sea levels, which are both important— but what about its direct impact on you? In this educational episode of Skincredible, Dr. Lisa Swanson is joined by Emmy Award–winning meteorologist Felicia Combs of The Weather Channel (Bio linked below). The conversation dives into the reality of climate change, and why we should all pay attention and hopefully do our part to help combat it. We will all be reminded of how COVID shutdowns temporarily improved air quality and what that tells us about our ability to impact our environments directly. Whether you're a climate skeptic, a health-conscious individual, or just curious about the future, Felicia offers practical and engaging insights you will learn from.  Felicia breaks down the difference between weather and climate in a way that really makes sense, she also explains how a changing climate may contribute to stronger hurricanes, shifting tornado patterns, intensifying droughts, and even increasing airplane turbulence. From wildfires in unexpected places like Georgia to rapidly intensifying hurricanes in recent history, this episode connects the dots between science, daily life, and the future of our planet. In this episode we also explore the human side of extreme weather—what happens after storms pass, how communities rebuild, and why climate impacts extend far beyond the headlines. Plus, we tackle common misconceptions, the role of misinformation, and what individuals can realistically do to make a difference. To wrap things up, Dr. Swanson and Felicia lighten the mood with some jokes about bunkers and a little bit of hope for what feels like a very daunting topic. This episode is eye-opening, informative, and empowering—and might just change the way you think about the forecast. Don’t forget: Wear your sunscreen—no matter the forecast. Keywords Dermatology, weather, climate change, storms, changing weather, hurricanes, greenhouse gasses, melting ice caps, melting glaciers, tornadoes, climate, fires, environment, environmental risk factors, extreme weather, extreme storms, The Weather Channel, Lisa Swanson, Felicia Combs Links, Attachments Felicia Combs BIO Chapters 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 01:45 Is Climate Change Real? 03:05 Connecting Weather & Long Term Trends 05:00 Warming & Fossil Fuels 06:15 When We Started Noticing Changes 07:20 Pandemic & Changes in Environment 10:44 Tornadoes, Wildfires, Droughts 14:27 How hurricanes are Formed 15:44 Storms Intensifying More Quickly 17:15 Lives Impacted Due to Major Natural Events 19:00 Meteorologists In Storms 22:00 Insurance, Trickle Down Effects 25:25 Felicia’s Journey to Becoming a Meteorologist 26:13 Preparation, Not Fear 28:00 Turbulence in Clear Air & Flights in General 29:44 Delta Meteorologist Partnership 31:02 Vermont, Safest Cities?  32:50 Climate Modeling, Predictions 35:32 Paradise Show, Super Tsunami, Ash 37:30 Cloud Seeding, Silver Iodide  39:40 CO2 Removal, Basalt, Seaweed, Kelp 42:30 Bluey Pitch 43:04 Thank You & Closing 43:28 Bunker 5 Things You Would Take 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.

    46 min
  8. You Are What You Breathe: Dr. Ethan Sims Talks About the Environment and Your Health

    4 May

    You Are What You Breathe: Dr. Ethan Sims Talks About the Environment and Your Health

    In this episode of Skincredible, Dr. Lisa Swanson sits down with ER physician and climate health advocate Dr. Ethan Sims for an engaging, wide-ranging conversation that connects climate change directly to human health—right here in Idaho and across the globe. They kick things off with lighthearted “two likes and two dislikes” (including a surprising anti-chocolate stance and a shared love of dogs), before diving into the serious reality that climate change is not just an environmental issue—it’s a healthcare issue. Dr. Sims shares how a smoky, record-breaking summer sparked his journey into climate advocacy and walks listeners through the many ways climate change is already affecting our bodies. From extreme heat—which doesn’t just cause heat stroke but worsens heart disease, kidney disease, and even increases rates of violence—to intensifying storms that leave long-term mental health scars, this episode unpacks how environmental shifts ripple through every aspect of health. They explore worsening air quality and the hidden dangers of microscopic pollutants. The conversation also covers the spread of mosquito-borne illnesses into new regions, the growing threat of water scarcity in the Mountain West, and how changing environments may be contributing to the rise in autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Beyond the challenges, Dr. Swanson and Dr. Sims highlight solutions—from improving indoor air quality and reducing food waste at home to rethinking healthcare practices that contribute significantly to carbon emissions. They discuss practical changes already making a difference, like switching anesthetic gases, reducing medical waste, and simple energy-saving strategies within hospitals. The episode also touches on innovative (and sometimes imperfect)—emphasizing that there is no single fix, but rather millions of “small buttons” we can all push. Blending science, personal stories, humor, and actionable insights, this conversation balances honest discussion of risks with a sense of empowerment. The takeaway: while the problem is big, meaningful change starts with awareness, conversation, and everyday action. Because when it comes to the future of our health—and our planet—we’re choosing hope. Keywords Dermatology, climate change, health, environment, wildfire, heat, medical impacts, sustainability, public health, Idaho, global warming, human health, air quality, extreme weather, infectious diseases, regenerative agriculture, cloud seeding, water scarcity, mental health, autoimmune diseases climate change, carbon removal, regenerative farming, seaweed farms, carbon capture, sustainability, environmental solutions, healthcare sustainability, climate tech, individual action Links, Attachments What you can do according to Project Drawdown Chapters 00:00 Intro and Welcome 01:19 2 Likes 2 Dislikes 11:40 How Climate Change Impacts Health 12:57 How Dr. Sims Got Interested in Climate 15:33 Age 47.3 is the Unhappiest? 21:00 Heat, Exposure and Violent Crimes 23:00 Extreme Weather 25:00 Chronic Mental Health Impacts 26:00 Least Vulnerable Places 27:45 Air Quality, Filtration 32:15 Mosquitoborne Illnesses 34:20 Water Scarcity, Desertification 39:00 Cloud Seeding 41:00 Regenerative Agriculture 43:00 Autoimmune & Inflammatory Diseases 47:22 Carbon Emissions 56:30 Electric Cars 57:00 Action is the Antidote to Despair 01:00:00 Hospital Efforts 01:08:00 Biggest Threat to Humanity Question 01:10:10 Closing on a Positive Note 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.

    1hr 12min
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About

A board-certified pediatric dermatologist cuts through the chaos of social media skincare advice. 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.

Information

  • Creator
    Elizabeth Swanson, M.D.
  • Years Active
    2k
  • Episodes
    26
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Skincredible
  • Show Website
    Skincredible

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