The Science of Skin

A Science of Skincare Podcast
  • 5.0 (69)
  • Health & Fitness
  • Updated Weekly

The Science of Skin is a podcast for those who want to be in-the-know about what's trending in topical skincare and learn about new therapies that are shaping the future of dermatologic care. Hosts  Dr. Patti Farris and Dr. Ted Lain are board certified dermatologist, recognized experts in topical skincare and co-founders of the Science of Skin Summit. In each episode, The Science of Skin will give you an insider’s view of the skincare industry.  You will hear from research scientists, formulators, and leading physician experts on how products are developed, tested, and used to treat medical and cosmetic patients.   So, if you’re interested in a behind the scenes look at what makes the skincare industry tick, subscribe to The Science of Skin today. Thanks for listening! You can also find us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@scienceofskinpodcast Disclaimer: This podcast is not intended to provide diagnosis, treatment, or medical advice. Content provided in this podcast is for educational purposes only. Please consult with a physician regarding any health-related diagnosis or treatment.

  1. 5d ago ·  Video

    Can a Topical Serum Work Like Botox? Dermatologist Breaks Down P-TIOX

    Can a topical serum work like a neurotoxin? Recorded live in Paris, Dr. Ted Lain sits down with Dr. Peter Bjerring to find out. Dr. Bjerring is a professor of dermatology at Aalborg University Hospital in Denmark, a laser pioneer who helped develop IPL technology, and a Knight of the Order of the Dannebrog. Together they break down SkinCeuticals P-TIOX, a serum built around two viper-venom-derived neuropeptides. One acts presynaptically, like botulinum toxin. The other blocks acetylcholine receptors on the muscle side. Both are small enough to penetrate the skin, which injectable toxins can't do. Dr. Bjerring walks through two of his clinical studies. In a split-forehead sweat study using the Minor iodine-starch test, the treated side showed little to no sweating after just three applications. That suggests the peptides really do reach their targets in the skin. In an 8-week, all-male study of 36 participants across multiple ethnicities, twice-daily use reduced forehead and glabellar lines by about 15%. Crow's feet, nasolabial folds, and even marionette lines also improved, and results kept getting better between weeks 4 and 8. The conversation also covers the supporting ingredients: 5% polyhydroxy acid for gentle exfoliation, niacinamide for barrier support, tone, and redness, and Laminaria digitata for antioxidant and collagen support. They discuss why so many self-reported sensitive-skin participants had no irritation, and how P-TIOX may pair with injectable neurotoxins to target the fine, superficial texture lines that injections miss. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star rating and share it with a colleague. Word of mouth helps our podcast grow! Have questions or ideas for future episodes? Email us at inquiry@scienceofskinsummit.com. Disclaimer: This clip is not intended to provide diagnosis, treatment, or medical advice. Content provided in this podcast is for educational purposes only. Please consult with a physician regarding any health-related diagnosis or treatment.

    Can a Topical Serum Work Like Botox? Dermatologist Breaks Down P-TIOX

  2. Sep 22 ·  Video

    The Science of Slowing Aging: Rapamycin, Genes, and the Quest for a Longer Health Span

    In this episode of the Science of Skin Podcast, Dr. Ted Lain talks with Dr. Rich Miller, professor of pathology at the University of Michigan and director of the Paul F. Glenn Center for Aging Research, about the science of slowing biological aging. Dr. Miller explains why lifespan and health span move together, not in opposition, and walks through decades of research using genetic mutants, calorie-restricted diets, and drugs like rapamycin, acarbose, canagliflozin, and 17 alpha-estradiol to extend lifespan in mice. The conversation covers how these interventions work through pathways like mTOR and glucose regulation, why some drugs affect males and females differently, and the surprising finding that many of these anti-aging effects hold up even when treatment starts in middle age rather than early in life. The two also discuss the challenge of translating mouse research to humans, Dr. Miller's work developing "aging rate indicators" that could make human drug trials for aging far more practical, and his call for more dermatology involvement in aging research — including his hope to see skin aging studied alongside the organs his lab has already examined. The episode closes with a candid take on supplement industry claims and what the current evidence actually supports for slowing aging today. ⚠️ This content is for educational and informational purposes only and reflects the personal research findings and opinions of the speakers. It is not medical advice. The discussion involves animal studies and experimental research; consult a licensed healthcare provider for questions about your own health. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star rating and share with a colleague — word of mouth helps our podcast grow!

    The Science of Slowing Aging: Rapamycin, Genes, and the Quest for a Longer Health Span

  3. Sep 15 ·  Video

    Chronic Urticaria Explained: BTK Inhibitors & Remibrutinib

    In this episode of the Science of Skin Podcast, Dr. Ted Lain sits down with Dr. Sarina Elmariah, MD, PhD, professor of dermatology at UC San Francisco and director of the UCSF Center for Itch and Neurosensory Disorders, for a deep dive into chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU). Dr. Elmariah breaks down the role of Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) in mast cell degranulation and explains how it sits at the center of the histamine release cascade. The conversation covers the difference between Type I (auto-allergic) and Type IIb (autoimmune) CSU pathways, available diagnostic tools like autologous serum skin testing and basophil activation testing, and why BTK appears to be a common thread across nearly all CSU mechanisms — including many inducible urticarias. The two also discuss remibrutinib (brand name Rhapsido), a BTK inhibitor newly FDA-approved for CSU, and what makes its binding mechanism distinct from earlier BTK inhibitors. They close with a look beyond histamine at the other inflammatory mediators — proteases, leukotrienes, prostaglandins, and cytokines — that help explain why so many CSU patients don't respond to antihistamines alone, and why angioedema tends to linger longer than a typical urticarial wheel. ⚠️ This content is for educational and informational purposes only and reflects the personal clinical opinions and experiences of the speakers. It is not medical advice. Consult a licensed healthcare provider for questions about diagnosis or treatment.

    Chronic Urticaria Explained: BTK Inhibitors & Remibrutinib

  4. Sep 8 ·  Video

    K-Beauty Decoded: The Science Behind Glass Skin, Snail Mucin & Korean Sunscreens

    Korean skincare is everywhere on social media — but how much of it is backed by real dermatologic science? In this episode of The Science of Skin Podcast, Dr. Patti Farris sits down with Dr. Jane Yoo, board-certified dermatologist, fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon, and "The K-Beauty Dermatologist," to separate fact from TikTok fiction. They trace K-beauty's roots from the Goryeo and Joseon dynasties through the Hallyu wave, then dig into the science: ceramide-dominant, barrier-centric formulations, low-pH cleansers, and why "glass skin" is more about consistent barrier care (and good lighting) than any single product. Dr. Yoo also breaks down the real evidence behind snail mucin, PDRN and PN, exosomes, and silica spicules — including where the hype outpaces the data — plus whether double cleansing is really necessary and why Korean sunscreen filters like bemotrizinol (Tinosorb S) may be the biggest public health advance in photoprotection in 25 years. In this episode: The real history of K-beauty, from royal court rituals to global export What actually causes "glass skin" (and what doesn't) The truth about snail mucin, PDRN/PN, exosomes, and spicules Do you really need to double cleanse? Why newly approved filters like bemotrizinol could change US sunscreens Tinted, visible-light-blocking sunscreens for skin of color Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Email inquiry@scienceofskinsummit.com. Join us at the Science of Skin Summit, September 17-20 in Austin, TX, or the new Science of Skin Longevity Conference in Scottsdale, February 2027. Learn more at scienceofskinsummit.com If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star rating and share with a colleague — word of mouth helps our podcast grow! ⚠️ This content is for educational and informational purposes only and reflects the personal clinical opinions and experiences of the speakers. It is not medical advice. Consult a licensed healthcare provider for questions about diagnosis or treatment.

    K-Beauty Decoded: The Science Behind Glass Skin, Snail Mucin & Korean Sunscreens

  5. Sep 1 ·  Video

    Inside DermFluencer University: Building the Next Generation of Medical Creators

    In this episode of the Science of Skin Podcast, Dr. Patti Farris sits down with Dr. Dustin Portela and Mimi Banks (Principal, Mimi Banks Social) to talk all things DermFluencer University — the influencer education track heading into its third year at the Science of Skin Summit in Austin, TX (September 17–20). Dustin and Mimi trace the program's origin from a single standing-room-only session to a full two-day experience combining a hands-on masterclass with practical, camera-ready workshops. They dig into why physicians need to show up in the spaces where health misinformation spreads — especially around topics like sunscreen and skin cancer — and share the systems, batching techniques, and content frameworks that make creating sustainable for busy clinicians. The conversation also covers Med Creator 101, the podcast-turned-course born out of Dustin and Mimi's countless one-on-one conversations with physicians at AAD 2024, now distilled into an eight-module course covering everything from content hooks to HIPAA-conscious posting. Whether you're a dermatologist, NP, PA, or aesthetician curious about content creation, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at how to build an authentic, science-backed presence online — imperfections and all. Topics covered: DermFluencer University · Med Creator 101 · content batching & systems · combating skincare misinformation · camera presence & branding workshops · Science of Skin Summit 2026

    Inside DermFluencer University: Building the Next Generation of Medical Creators

  6. Aug 27 ·  Bonus Video

    The 9% (and Rising) Cut — What Every Dermatologist Needs to Know Now

    In this special bonus episode of the Science of Skin Podcast, Dr. Patti Farris sits down with Dr. Sandra (Sandy) Johnson — private practice dermatologist in Fort Smith, Arkansas, and member of the American Academy of Dermatology's Board of Directors — for an urgent conversation on the CMS reimbursement cuts threatening the future of dermatology. Dr. Johnson breaks down the three major proposals from CMS that could devastate dermatology practices nationwide: a proposed cut to the 25-modifier that would penalize combined evaluation-and-procedure visits, a potential overhaul of indirect practice expense calculations that could hit dermatology harder than most specialties, and an effort to remove the AMA's RUC representation — stripping physicians of their voice in how reimbursement values are set. Beyond the policy breakdown, Dr. Johnson shares what the AAD is doing to fight back and exactly what members can do right now: submitting the 30-second advocacy letter through Voter Voice, rallying staff and patients to do the same, donating to SkinPAC, and attending this year's Legislative Conference in Washington, DC before the mid-September deadline. This is a call to action for the entire dermatology community — because a united voice is the specialty's best defense. Topics covered: The proposed 9–25% CMS reimbursement cutsThe 25-modifier and what it means for combined visitsIndirect practice expenses and why dermatology may be hit hardestEfforts to remove the AMA from the RUCHow to take action: Voter Voice, SkinPAC, and the AAD Legislative Conference

    The 9% (and Rising) Cut — What Every Dermatologist Needs to Know Now

  7. Aug 25 ·  Video

    Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria (CSU) Explained: New Oral BTK Inhibitor Rhapsido for Chronic Hives

    Millions of people live with chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) — unpredictable hives and angioedema lasting six weeks or longer with no identifiable trigger. In this episode of the Science of Skin podcast, board-certified dermatologists Dr. Ted Lain and Dr. Michelle Tarbox (Chair, Department of Dermatology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, and host of the Dermosphere podcast) break down what CSU actually is, why it's often misdiagnosed as an allergy, and how it's treated — from first-line antihistamines to omalizumab (Xolair) to the newest option: Rhapsido (remibrutinib), the first oral BTK inhibitor approved for CSU. In this episode, you'll learn: How CSU is diagnosed and why it's classified as a skin disease, not a true allergyThe autoimmune vs. autoallergic subtypes driving chronic hives and angioedemaWhy antihistamine updosing often falls short — and its impact on quality of lifeHow BTK inhibitors like remibrutinib (Rhapsido) work differently than biologics like omalizumabReal patient stories on the toll of chronic hives, misdiagnosis, and finding reliefThis episode is sponsored by Novartis with content independently created by the Science of Skin podcast: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Email us at inquiry@scienceofskinsummit.com. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a five-star rating, and tell a colleague or friend — word of mouth is how this podcast grows. Topics: chronic spontaneous urticaria, CSU, chronic hives, urticaria treatment, angioedema, BTK inhibitor, remibrutinib, Rhapsido, omalizumab, Xolair, antihistamine-resistant hives, dermatology podcast, autoimmune skin disease

    Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria (CSU) Explained: New Oral BTK Inhibitor Rhapsido for Chronic Hives

  8. Aug 18 ·  Video

    Epiduo OTC: Full Clinical Data Deep Dive on Adapalene + Benzoyl Peroxide

    Epiduo is now available over the counter — and in this full episode of the Science of Skin Podcast, board-certified dermatologists Dr. Ted Lain and Dr. Patti Farris break down everything you need to know about this fixed-dose combination acne treatment. From the landmark phase 3 clinical trial data to real-world tolerability, scarring reduction, and the risks of compounded alternatives, this is the definitive deep dive on adapalene 0.1% and benzoyl peroxide 2.5%. In this episode: ✅ Why Epiduo's move to OTC is a game-changer for acne patients facing prescription barriers ✅ Full breakdown of the 2009 phase 3 trial: 1,600+ patients, 60 study centers, 4 treatment cohorts ✅ 67% reduction in inflammatory lesions and 60% reduction in total lesion count by week 12 ✅ IGA success rates — 35% achieved clear/almost clear skin vs. 22-24% with monotherapy alone ✅ Phase 3B international trial data across diverse Fitzpatrick skin types ✅ Excellent tolerability data — erythema, dryness, and irritation all rated below "mild" ✅ How Epiduo addresses the full acne lesion life cycle, including scarring and PIH ✅ Why formulation science and FDA-approved testing matter vs. compounded alternatives ✅ The CeraVe/Cetaphil CAMP regimen (cleanse, moisturize, protect) for acne patients ✅ Real-world pricing, dosing, and application tips for OTC Epiduo This episode of the Science of Skin Podcast is sponsored by Galderma. Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Email inquiry@scienceofskinsummit.com. Join us at the Science of Skin Summit, September 17-20 in Austin, TX, or the new Science of Skin Longevity Conference in Scottsdale, February 2027. Learn more at scienceofskinsummit.com. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star rating and share with a colleague — word of mouth helps our podcast grow! ⚠️ This content is for educational and informational purposes only and reflects the personal clinical opinions and experiences of the speakers. It is not medical advice. Consult a licensed healthcare provider for questions about diagnosis or treatment.

    Epiduo OTC: Full Clinical Data Deep Dive on Adapalene + Benzoyl Peroxide
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About

The Science of Skin is a podcast for those who want to be in-the-know about what's trending in topical skincare and learn about new therapies that are shaping the future of dermatologic care. Hosts  Dr. Patti Farris and Dr. Ted Lain are board certified dermatologist, recognized experts in topical skincare and co-founders of the Science of Skin Summit. In each episode, The Science of Skin will give you an insider’s view of the skincare industry.  You will hear from research scientists, formulators, and leading physician experts on how products are developed, tested, and used to treat medical and cosmetic patients.   So, if you’re interested in a behind the scenes look at what makes the skincare industry tick, subscribe to The Science of Skin today. Thanks for listening! You can also find us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@scienceofskinpodcast Disclaimer: This podcast is not intended to provide diagnosis, treatment, or medical advice. Content provided in this podcast is for educational purposes only. Please consult with a physician regarding any health-related diagnosis or treatment.

Information

  • Creator
    A Science of Skincare Podcast
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    135
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Science of Skin
  • Show Website
    The Science of Skin

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