Skinfluence with Dr. Dustin Portela

Dustin Portela
  • 4.9 (88)
  • MEDICINE
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Skinfluence is a podcast dedicated to helping you understand and take control of your skin health. Hosted by board-certified dermatologist Dr. Dustin Portela and Physician Assistant Austin Lee, each episode blends expert insights with practical advice to guide you through the world of skincare. From treating common concerns like acne and eczema to exploring the latest innovations in cosmetic dermatology, Skinfluence offers trustworthy information you can use—whether you're a skincare beginner or looking to take your routine to the next level. Tune in weekly for science-backed tips, patient stories, and honest conversations about what really works. Tag: 868329

  1. Episode 41: Rosacea Explained — Triggers, Treatments, and What Actually Works

    5D AGO

    Episode 41: Rosacea Explained — Triggers, Treatments, and What Actually Works

    Rosacea is one of the most common conditions seen in dermatology, and one of the most misunderstood. In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee break down exactly what rosacea is, why it shows up, and why it can look completely different from one person to another. From persistent redness and flushing to acne-like breakouts and even thickened skin on the nose, they walk through the different types and how to recognize them. They dive into what is actually happening beneath the skin, including inflammation, blood vessel changes, and even the role of Demodex mites. The conversation also covers one of the most important parts of managing rosacea: identifying triggers. From sun exposure and heat to alcohol, caffeine, spicy foods, and exercise, they explain why flare-ups happen and how to better control them without over-restricting your lifestyle. Dustin and Austin also clear up one of the biggest mistakes patients make: treating rosacea like acne. They explain why harsh scrubs, over-exfoliation, and aggressive skincare routines often make things worse, and how focusing on barrier repair, gentle products, and consistency can make a major difference. On the treatment side, they walk through everything from over-the-counter options like niacinamide and azelaic acid to prescription topicals, oral medications, and when more advanced options like lasers or low-dose Accutane come into play. They also explain why rosacea is a chronic condition, what realistic expectations should look like, and how to maintain long-term control. If you struggle with redness, flushing, or breakouts that never quite respond to typical acne treatments, this episode will help you understand what is really going on and how to manage it effectively. Products of the Week Paula's Choice 10% Azelaic Acid Booster A great starting point for rosacea-prone skin, especially if you're dealing with redness and acne-like bumps. Azelaic acid helps calm inflammation, improve tone, and is one of the most versatile ingredients for rosacea. EltaMD UV Skin Recovery A green-tinted sunscreen that not only protects against UV exposure but also helps neutralize visible redness. It is lightweight, hydrating, and designed specifically for sensitive, rosacea-prone skin. Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportela YouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDoc YouTube (Educational): @drdustinportela Pinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac

    35 min
  2. Episode 40: Medicine's Biggest Misses: The Skin Treatments We Got Wrong

    MAR 19

    Episode 40: Medicine's Biggest Misses: The Skin Treatments We Got Wrong

    Dermatology has come a long way, but not every treatment from the past deserves a comeback. In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee take a fascinating look at some of the biggest blind spots in skin health and beauty, from mercury and arsenic in cosmetics to x-ray treatments for acne, sun lamps, coal tar therapies, and aggressive phenol peels. They break down why these treatments were once accepted, what doctors and patients believed at the time, and how better evidence eventually revealed the risks. Along the way, they also touch on acne myths, outdated assumptions about hygiene and diet, the dangers of unregulated skin-lightening creams, and why some modern at-home beauty devices may become the next blind spot we look back on with regret. But this episode is not just about the past. It is also about how good medicine actually works. Dustin and Austin talk about why evidence-based care matters, how science keeps evolving, and why the best providers stay humble, keep learning, and listen closely to their patients. They also explore how technology, research tools, ingredient transparency, and personalized skincare are helping modern dermatology move in a smarter and safer direction. If you have ever wondered how medicine changes over time, why old advice falls apart, or what current trends may not age well, this episode is equal parts eye-opening, thoughtful, and incredibly relevant. Product of the Week: AlphaRet from Skinbetter Science AlphaRet is one of Dr. Portela and Austin's favorite retinoid products because it combines real results with a level of gentleness that is hard to find. It features retinoic acid along with lactic acid and glycolic acid to improve skin tone, texture, and signs of aging while staying more tolerable than many traditional retinoids. It is one of the most popular products in their office and a longtime Skinbetter Science standout. Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportela YouTube Reactions: @208SkinDoc YouTube Educational: @drdustinportela Pinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac

    38 min
  3. Episode 39: Skin Biopsies Explained — What Happens and Why You Might Need One

    MAR 12

    Episode 39: Skin Biopsies Explained — What Happens and Why You Might Need One

    Hearing the word "biopsy" can make a lot of people nervous. In this episode, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Dustin Portela and physician assistant Austin Lee break down one of the most common procedures performed in dermatology: the skin biopsy. They explain why biopsies are done, when they're necessary, and why having one does not automatically mean you have skin cancer. The conversation walks through the different types of biopsies dermatologists perform, including shave biopsies, punch biopsies, and excisional biopsies. They also explain what the procedure actually feels like, how long it takes, and what patients can expect during and after the appointment. Dr. Portela and Austin also take listeners behind the scenes of what happens after a biopsy is performed. They discuss how samples are processed in pathology labs, how dermatopathologists analyze tissue under the microscope, and why your dermatologist's relationship with a skilled pathologist is so important for accurate diagnoses. They also cover healing timelines, scar prevention, when to worry about infection, and how biopsy results are delivered to patients. If you've ever delayed a dermatology appointment because you were worried about needing a biopsy, this episode will help demystify the entire process. Product of the Week Silicone Scar Gel Flawless SunShield Scar Gel with SPF BUNDLE DEAL After a biopsy or procedure, proper scar care can make a big difference in healing and cosmetic outcomes. Silicone scar gel helps support healthy healing while minimizing the appearance of scars. For areas exposed to sunlight, the Flawless SunShield adds SPF protection to help prevent post-inflammatory pigmentation and discoloration. Follow Us Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportela YouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDoc YouTube (Educational): @drdustinportela Pinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac

    37 min
  4. Guest Episode: The Identity Shift That Changes Men and Families with Matt Beaudreau

    MAR 5

    Guest Episode: The Identity Shift That Changes Men and Families with Matt Beaudreau

    What if the biggest change you could make in your life isn't a tactic, a productivity hack, or a new routine, but a shift in identity? In this guest episode, Dr. Dustin Portela sits down with educator and Apogee Strong founder Matt Beaudreau to talk about leadership, fatherhood, discipline, health, and the power of becoming the kind of person who naturally lives the habits you want to build. Matt shares the philosophy behind Apogee Strong and Apogee Schools, a model focused on whole-family education, personal responsibility, entrepreneurship, and character development. The conversation explores why expectations matter more than rules, how kids rise to the standards we actually enforce, and why identity drives behavior far more than motivation ever will. They also dive into burnout among high-achieving men, the trap of tying self-worth to financial success, discipline versus punishment, how fathers can lead by example, and why consistency in health, marriage, and parenting compounds over time. From food choices to phone habits to servant leadership, this episode is about building strength in every area of life. If you are a father, a parent trying to raise strong kids, or a man who knows he can level up, this conversation is practical, challenging, and deeply applicable. About the Guest: Matt Beaudreau Matt Beaudreau is the founder of Apogee Strong and co-founder of Apogee Schools. He works with men, women, and families to build leadership, discipline, health, and responsibility through whole-family mentorship and education programs. Learn more at: https://apogeestrong.com Follow Apogee Strong: Instagram: @apogeeprogram Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportela YouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDoc YouTube (Educational): @drdustinportela Pinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac

    37 min
  5. Episode 38: Grandma's Skincare Advice — What Actually Works and What to Skip

    FEB 26

    Episode 38: Grandma's Skincare Advice — What Actually Works and What to Skip

    Toothpaste on pimples. Lemon juice for dark spots. Egg whites for tightening. Butter on burns. We've all heard them. In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin break down the most common old-school skincare remedies passed down from grandmas, TikTok, and well-meaning family members and explain what actually works, what's harmless, and what can seriously damage your skin. They cover toothpaste for acne, lemon juice and apple cider vinegar for pigmentation, cucumbers for puffy eyes, turmeric masks, oatmeal baths, honey for wounds, aloe for burns, and even the dangerous rise of black salve. Along the way, they explain the science behind why some of these remedies gained popularity and why modern skincare products are often safer, more effective, and better regulated. This episode is part myth-busting, part science lesson, and part reality check. Just because something is "natural" doesn't mean it's safe. And just because it's been around for decades doesn't mean it works. If you've ever been tempted to DIY your skincare from your kitchen cabinet, listen to this first. Product of the Week: EltaMD Sunscreen EltaMD remains one of the most trusted sunscreen brands recommended in dermatology offices nationwide. Through the Air Skin Store, you can get 15% off EltaMD products for every purchase, not just your first order. Products ship directly from the manufacturer to ensure authenticity and quality. [Click here for EltaMD Sunscreen] Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportela YouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDoc YouTube (Educational): @drdustinportela Pinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac

    37 min
  6. Guest Episode: Therapy Without the Fluff with Trey Tucker

    FEB 19

    Guest Episode: Therapy Without the Fluff with Trey Tucker

    Mental health does not need to be complicated, soft, or filled with buzzwords. In this guest episode, Dr. Dustin Portela sits down with licensed therapist and author Trey Tucker to talk about what he calls "therapy without the fluff." Trey shares his straightforward approach to anxiety, purpose, relationships, and the challenges facing young men today. The conversation explores the mind-body connection, how emotional injuries shape adult behavior, why many men struggle with vulnerability, and how silence and self-awareness can completely change your mental health trajectory. They also dive into loneliness, modern social media pressures, fatherhood, purpose, and why chasing happiness often leads to less fulfillment. If you have ever felt overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure how to process what is happening inside your own head, this episode offers practical tools and grounded perspective. No jargon. No fluff. Just honest conversation about what actually helps. About the Guest: Trey Tucker Trey Tucker is a licensed therapist, speaker, and author of Tough Enough, a book focused on helping young men build emotional strength, purpose, and resilience. His work centers on straightforward, actionable mental health guidance designed to cut through noise and stigma. Find Trey and his book: Website: https://toughenoughbook.com Book: Available wherever books are sold Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportela YouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDoc YouTube (Educational): @drdustinportela Pinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac

    50 min
  7. Episode 37: Psoriasis Explained — Triggers, Treatments, and What Actually Works

    FEB 12

    Episode 37: Psoriasis Explained — Triggers, Treatments, and What Actually Works

    Psoriasis is more than just a rash. In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee break down what psoriasis really is, why it happens, and how treatment has completely changed over the past decade. They explain the difference between autoimmune and autoinflammatory disease, why psoriasis is driven by inflammatory signaling pathways like TNF alpha, IL-17, and IL-23, and how that inflammation affects more than just the skin. The conversation covers plaque psoriasis, guttate psoriasis, nail psoriasis, inverse psoriasis, erythrodermic psoriasis, and psoriatic arthritis, along with the serious cardiovascular and metabolic risks that can come with uncontrolled disease. Dustin and Austin also walk through treatment options from old school coal tar and phototherapy to modern topical medications, oral therapies, and the biologic injections that have transformed patient outcomes. They discuss what to expect with lab monitoring, why biologics are far safer than many people assume, and how these medications can be life changing for patients struggling physically and emotionally. They also touch on lifestyle factors including stress, alcohol, weight, diet, and sunlight, plus the powerful emotional toll psoriasis can take and why treating it often restores far more than just skin. If you or someone you love has psoriasis, this episode offers clarity, hope, and a roadmap for what modern treatment can look like. Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportela YouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDoc YouTube (Educational): @drdustinportela Pinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac Product of the Week: Future Clinic Future Clinic is Dr. Portela's teledermatology platform, currently available in Idaho and New York with more states coming soon. Through a simple monthly subscription starting at $50, patients can receive real medical advice, prescriptions, and follow ups directly from Dr. Portela through the app. Spots are currently limited, so if you live in Idaho or New York and want direct access to dermatology care, you can sign up through this link.

    42 min
  8. Episode 36: Skincare Marketing Lies, Buzzwords, and How to Shop Smarter

    FEB 5

    Episode 36: Skincare Marketing Lies, Buzzwords, and How to Shop Smarter

    Skincare marketing is loud, confusing, and often misleading. In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee break down the most common skincare buzzwords and claims so you can stop falling for hype and start making smarter decisions. They unpack terms like clinically tested, dermatologist recommended, hypoallergenic, fragrance free versus unscented, medical grade, non comedogenic, clean beauty, and organic, explaining what each one actually means and what is mostly just marketing. You will learn why many of these labels are unregulated, how companies legally stretch the truth, and why price does not always equal performance. The conversation also dives into influencer marketing, TikTok shop, affiliate links, filters, and before and after videos, including how social media shapes unrealistic expectations around skin. Dustin and Austin share real examples of deceptive trends, why apps like Yuka and EWG can be misleading, and how even identical ingredient lists can hide major differences in formulation. They wrap with practical advice on how to read ingredient labels, when over the counter products make sense, how to patch test new skincare, and how to approach shopping without overspending or getting overwhelmed. Plus, Dr. Portela introduces a new telehealth option for patients who want real dermatology guidance instead of social media guesswork. If you have ever stood in the skincare aisle feeling confused, skeptical, or unsure who to trust, this episode gives you the tools to shop smarter and take control of your routine. Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportela YouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDoc YouTube (Educational): @drdustinportela Pinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac Product of the Week: Future Clinic Telehealth Dr. Portela is now offering dermatology telehealth consultations through the Future Clinic app. This allows patients in Idaho and New York, with more states coming soon, to get real medical advice, prescriptions, and follow ups directly from Dr. Portela. Each visit is reviewed by him personally, with voice or video responses included. Unlimited visits start at $50 per month. Click here: https://app.futureclinic.com/clinics/drportela/profile

    46 min
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4.9
out of 5
88 Ratings

About

Skinfluence is a podcast dedicated to helping you understand and take control of your skin health. Hosted by board-certified dermatologist Dr. Dustin Portela and Physician Assistant Austin Lee, each episode blends expert insights with practical advice to guide you through the world of skincare. From treating common concerns like acne and eczema to exploring the latest innovations in cosmetic dermatology, Skinfluence offers trustworthy information you can use—whether you're a skincare beginner or looking to take your routine to the next level. Tune in weekly for science-backed tips, patient stories, and honest conversations about what really works. Tag: 868329

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