The Science of Skin

A Science of Skincare Podcast
  • 5.0 (54)
  • HEALTH & FITNESS
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The Science of Skin is a podcast for those who want to be in-the-know about what’s trending, and what’s next in topical skincare.  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 slo 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. GLP-1s in Dermatology: Tirzepatide, Semaglutide & Retatrutide for Psoriasis & Metabolic Skin Disease

    15H AGO

    GLP-1s in Dermatology: Tirzepatide, Semaglutide & Retatrutide for Psoriasis & Metabolic Skin Disease

    Could GLP-1 medications be the missing piece in treating inflammatory skin disease? In this episode of Science is Skin, Dr. Ted Lain sits down with Dr. Lindsey Bordone — former Columbia University associate professor of dermatology, now in private practice at Bordone Dermatology in Scottsdale, Arizona — for a deep dive into metabolic disease and the skin. Dr. Bordone was among the first dermatologists to prescribe GLP-1 agonists for her patients, and in this conversation she explains exactly why. From the link between hyperinsulinemia and chronic inflammation to the visible skin signs of insulin resistance — skin tags, acanthosis nigricans, forearm hair loss — she makes the case that dermatologists are uniquely positioned to catch metabolic disease before any other specialty. Dr. Bordone walks through how she uses tirzepatide (Mounjaro/Zepbound), semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy), and the emerging triple-G drug retatrutide, including her lab protocols, dosing philosophy, how to manage GI side effects, and the surprising interaction between GLP-1s and estrogen therapy. In this episode: Why high BMI reduces biologic efficacy in psoriasis patients How to check fasting insulin (HOMA-IR) and why most physicians aren't doing it Skin signs of insulin resistance: skin tags, forearm hair loss, and neck skin thickening Tirzepatide vs. semaglutide vs. retatrutide — how to choose and when Retatrutide's remarkable 93% fatty liver clearance rate in clinical trials The truth about sarcopenia and muscle loss on GLP-1 medications Dosing protocols, side effect management, and when NOT to escalate quickly Protein intake recommendations during active weight loss Estrogen and GLP-1 synergy — what dermatologists need to know Lab work to run before and during GLP-1 therapy How to build an insurance case for continued medication coverage Resources mentioned: HOMA-IR fasting insulin/glucose testing AAD resources on metabolic dermatology Bordone Dermatology — Scottsdale, Arizona Enjoyed this episode? Share it with a colleague and leave us a five-star review. Subscribe so you never miss an episode of Science is Skin. To watch this and other episodes, be sure to check out our YouTube page  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. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    29 min
  2. Skin Signs of Human Trafficking & the Science of Longevity

    MAY 5

    Skin Signs of Human Trafficking & the Science of Longevity

    What do tattoos, trafficking survivors, and longevity medicine have in common? More than you'd think. In this episode of Science is Skin, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Ted Lain sits down with Dr. Shadi Kourosh — Harvard Medical School professor, public health physician, and director of dermatology at Nantucket Cottage Hospital — for a conversation that spans medicine, advocacy, and cutting-edge science. Dr. Kourosh shares how her work with underserved communities at Massachusetts General Hospital led her to the frontlines of the fight against human trafficking. She breaks down the "Three I's" — infections, injuries, and imagery — the clinical signs dermatologists and healthcare providers should recognize when a patient may be a trafficking victim. She also discusses trauma-informed care, how to create a safe environment for disclosure, and the STEER app (Skin Signs of Trafficking Education Advocacy and Resources), a free tool designed to connect providers and survivors with local resources. In the second half, Dr. Kourosh pivots to longevity medicine — one of dermatology's fastest-growing frontiers — and explains why separating skin science from snake oil has never been more important for patient protection and consumer health. In this episode: How dermatologists can identify skin signs of human trafficking The Three I's framework: infections, injuries, and imagery in trafficking tattoos Trauma-informed care and the "warm handoff" approach for at-risk patients The STEER app and AAD Human Trafficking Toolkit — free resources for providers Laser tattoo removal as a pathway to safety and reintegration for survivors The new science of skin longevity and preventive dermatology Fact vs. fiction in the longevity medicine space Resources mentioned: STEER App (Skin Signs of Trafficking, Education, Advocacy & Resources) AAD Human Trafficking Toolkit: aad.org American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery (ASLMS) Polaris Project National Human Trafficking Hotline To watch this and other episodes, be sure to check out our YouTube page  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. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    28 min
  3. Skin Science Breakthroughs: Vitamin C Serums, Scalp Health, SPF 100 & the Future of Anti-Aging Skincare — Live from AAD 2024

    APR 28

    Skin Science Breakthroughs: Vitamin C Serums, Scalp Health, SPF 100 & the Future of Anti-Aging Skincare — Live from AAD 2024

    Science of Skin Podcast · Sponsored by Neutrogena · Recorded live at the American Academy of Dermatology, Denver Dermatologists Dr. Patti Farris and Dr. Ted Lain go live from the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) in Denver to break down the latest skincare innovations from Neutrogena. In this episode, the hosts dive deep into three cutting-edge products: the Neutrogena Collagen Bank 15% Vitamin C Serum featuring pure L-ascorbic acid, 2% polyhydroxy acid (gluconolactone), and the award-winning microdipeptide (diacetyl dipeptide); the new Hair Restore Scalp Serum, which brings the microdipeptide alongside minoxidil (Rogaine), niacinamide, panthenol, caffeine, feverfew, centella asiatica, and arginine for a comprehensive approach to scalp health and hair loss prevention; and Neutrogena's Ultra Sheer SPF 100 sunscreen with Helioplex technology and antioxidant blends designed to protect against UVB, long-wave UVA, and high-energy visible (HEV) blue light. The doctors explore why L-ascorbic acid is the gold-standard form of vitamin C, how peptides are having a moment in dermatology, the skinification of the scalp, the risks of lipid peroxidation and post-acne hyperpigmentation, and why high SPF formulations matter even beyond UVB protection. Whether you're a dermatologist building patient regimens or a skincare enthusiast looking for science-backed product recommendations, this episode is packed with clinical insight and practical guidance. To watch this and other episodes, be sure to check out our YouTube page  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. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    16 min
  4. Treating Advanced Skin Cancer Without Surgery: Hedgehog & PD-1 Inhibitors with Dr. Todd Schlesinger

    APR 21

    Treating Advanced Skin Cancer Without Surgery: Hedgehog & PD-1 Inhibitors with Dr. Todd Schlesinger

    In this clinically rich episode, host Dr. Ted Lain sits down with board-certified dermatologist and global skin cancer expert Dr. Todd Schlesinger — AAD Board of Directors member, Mohs surgeon, clinical assistant professor at George Washington University School of Medicine, and medical director of the Clinical Research Center of the Carolinas — for a deep dive into systemic and targeted therapies for non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC). The doctors begin with a thorough breakdown of the hedgehog signaling pathway (PATCHED, Smoothened, GLI-1 transcription) and how mutations in this pathway drive basal cell carcinoma (BCC) growth. They compare the two FDA-approved hedgehog pathway inhibitors (HHIs) — vismodegib (Erivedge) and sonidegib (Odomzo) — covering their mechanisms of action, volume of distribution differences (16–18L vs. ~9,000L), indications for locally advanced and metastatic BCC, how to define "locally advanced," and complete vs. partial response rates. Dosing strategies are addressed in detail, including alternate-day dosing and treatment breaks backed by the MIKIE study and STEVIE safety study. For managing the most common adverse events — muscle cramps, dysgeusia, weight loss, and fatigue — Dr. Schlesinger shares his clinical protocol using L-carnitine supplementation (1,500–2,000mg liquid, started 2–4 weeks before therapy) along with calcium and CoQ10. The conversation then moves to PD-1 and PD-L1 checkpoint inhibitors for locally advanced and metastatic cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) and BCC, covering cemiplimab (Libtayo), pembrolizumab (Keytruda), and nivolumab (Opdivo). The hosts explain the immune checkpoint mechanism using a memorable analogy, discuss how UV exposure upregulates PD-1 on tumor cells, and explore the practical realities of dermatologists prescribing infusion-based immunotherapy — including multidisciplinary care team logistics, buy-and-bill considerations, and when to partner with oncology. The episode closes with an exciting look at the pipeline: intralesional therapies for nodular and superficial BCC from companies including Verica, iViva, PHIO, and Feldan, red light PDT for superficial BCC nearing FDA approval, and the broader question of where these drugs fit as neoadjuvant, adjuvant, or primary therapies — and what complete response benchmarks (80–95%) dermatologists should expect before adopting non-surgical primary options. To watch this and other episodes, be sure to check out our YouTube page  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. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    32 min
  5. The Science Behind Neutrogena Evenly Clear: Acne Treatments That Go Beyond the Breakout

    APR 14

    The Science Behind Neutrogena Evenly Clear: Acne Treatments That Go Beyond the Breakout

    Acne doesn't end when the breakout does — and this episode is all about treating the full journey. In this special Neutrogena-sponsored episode of the Science of Skin podcast, board-certified dermatologists Dr. Ted Lain and Dr. Patti Farris sit down with Rabab Hussain, PharmD, RPh. from Neutrogena's Translational Science team to break down the brand-new Evenly Clear acne line — a dermatologist-informed collection designed to tackle both active acne and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) in one cohesive regimen. Together, they dive deep into the science behind each product, including: Evenly Clear Acne Cleanser — 2% salicylic acid + polyhydroxy acid (PHA/gluconolactone) for barrier-respecting exfoliation Evenly Clear Acne Gel Moisturizer — 0.5% salicylic acid, N-acetylglucosamine, and a pre & postbiotic complex to support the skin microbiome and fade post-acne marks Evenly Clear Acne Cleansing Mask — 3.5% benzoyl peroxide + bentonite clay for oily, acne-prone skin on the face and body Evenly Clear Retinoid — 0.1% adapalene for acne treatment, exfoliation, and anti-pigmentation benefits Evenly Clear Acne Exfoliant — an AHA + BHA + PHA trifecta with glycolic acid, salicylic acid, mandelic acid, and PHA for multi-acid exfoliation with tolerability in mind Evenly Clear Clarifying Spray — a stabilized hypochlorous acid spray for on-the-go skin support Whether you're treating teens, adult women with hormonal acne, or patients with skin of color concerned about dark marks, this episode gives you the clinical rationale to confidently recommend OTC options — no prior authorization required. Topics covered: acne treatment regimens, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, skin barrier repair, the skin microbiome and dysbiosis, retinoids OTC, chemical exfoliants, hypochlorous acid, benzoyl peroxide tolerability, and building a complete acne skincare routine. 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.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    17 min
  6. The Future of Skin Longevity: Pro-Aging, Cosmeceuticals & the Science Redefining Dermatology

    APR 9 ·  BONUS

    The Future of Skin Longevity: Pro-Aging, Cosmeceuticals & the Science Redefining Dermatology

    The skincare conversation is shifting — and dermatology is leading the charge. In this episode, we dive deep into the emerging world of skin longevity, exploring why the industry is moving away from "anti-aging" and embracing a bold new pro-aging philosophy that celebrates long-term skin health over surface-level fixes. We break down what the groundbreaking Science of Skin Longevity Summit means for dermatologists, skincare professionals, and consumers alike — and why the skin is being recognized as the body's hallmark longevity organ. From longevity cosmeceuticals and cutting-edge procedures like microneedling and dermal fillers, to the complex, personalized science of measuring skin health over time, this episode covers it all. We also explore how artificial intelligence is poised to revolutionize personalized longevity skincare, and why collaboration between dermatologists and the cosmetic industry is no longer optional — it's essential. Whether you're a skincare enthusiast, a medical professional, or simply someone who wants to age with intention, this episode will change the way you think about your skin — for life. In this episode, you'll learn: Why "pro-aging" is replacing "anti-aging" in modern dermatology What skin longevity actually means — and how to measure it How cosmeceuticals are evolving to support long-term skin health Where microneedling, fillers & regenerative procedures fit into a longevity-focused practice How AI will personalize your skincare and longevity journey 🌐 For more information, visit: scienceofskinsummit.com/longevity 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. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    10 min
  7. Beyond Steroids: PDE4 Inhibitors & the Future of Topical Dermatology with Dr. Peter Lio

    MAR 31

    Beyond Steroids: PDE4 Inhibitors & the Future of Topical Dermatology with Dr. Peter Lio

    In this episode of the Science of Skin Podcast, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Ted Lain sits down with world-renowned eczema and atopic dermatitis expert Dr. Peter Lio, founder of the Chicago Integrative Eczema Center, to unpack a game-changing shift in how dermatologists think about chronic inflammatory skin conditions. If you're a dermatologist, skincare professional, or someone managing eczema, psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, or other steroid-responsive skin conditions — this episode is essential listening. What you'll learn: Why topical corticosteroids, despite being effective, carry real risks with long-term use — including skin atrophy, growth suppression in children, HPA axis suppression, and the increasingly recognized phenomenon of topical steroid withdrawal (TSW) What PDE4 (phosphodiesterase 4) is, how it drives the inflammatory cascade in atopic dermatitis, and why targeting it is a "Goldilocks" approach to treatment The evolution of PDE4 inhibitor topical therapies, including roflumilast (Zoryve) — its origins as an oral COPD drug and its transformation into a highly effective topical for eczema, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis The concept of "PDE4 inhibitor-responsive dermatoses" — a new framework introduced in Dr. Lio's JAAD publication that expands the clinical use of this drug class across a wide range of skin conditions, including rare and pediatric diseases with zero FDA-approved treatments The excellent safety profile of topical roflumilast, including what side effects to watch for and how to counsel patients Why dermatologists must continue championing innovation in topical therapies — not just biologics — to serve patients with mild-to-moderate disease Featured guest: Dr. Peter Lio, MD — Clinical Assistant Professor of Dermatology and Pediatrics, Northwestern University; Founder, Chicago Integrative Eczema Center; Global speaker, researcher, and consultant in atopic dermatitis and inflammatory skin disease. Sponsored by Arcutis Biotherapeutics, makers of roflumilast (Zoryve) topical foam and cream. This episode was recorded ahead of the 2026 AAD Annual Meeting. Link to Dr. Lio's JAAD publication on PDE4 inhibitor-responsive dermatoses. 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   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    31 min
  8. Hidradenitis Suppurativa Treatment, Biologics & Breakthroughs

    MAR 31

    Hidradenitis Suppurativa Treatment, Biologics & Breakthroughs

    What is Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS), and how is it treated? In this episode of the Science of Skin podcast, dermatologist Dr. Ted Lain is joined by HS specialist Dr. Steve Daveluy to break down everything you need to know about this chronic inflammatory skin disease — from early diagnosis to cutting-edge treatments. In this episode, we cover: What is Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) and who does it affect? Why pain is the #1 reason HS patients seek medical care How shame and stigma impact HS patients — and why HS is never the patient's fault Early HS treatment options: antimicrobial washes, topical antibiotics, and more The role of biologics in managing moderate-to-severe HS Emerging HS treatments: JAK inhibitors, nanobodies, and drugs in the pipeline Understanding HS pathogenesis and the immune pathways involved Why a multifactorial, personalized treatment approach is essential for HS management Whether you're a dermatologist, healthcare provider, or someone personally affected by Hidradenitis Suppurativa, this episode offers expert insight into the latest research, treatment strategies, and the future of HS care. 🎙️ Subscribe to the Science of Skin podcast for the latest in dermatology, skincare science, and clinical breakthroughs. 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. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    33 min
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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, and what’s next in topical skincare.  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 slo 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
    114
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Skincare Confidential
  • Show Website
    The Science of Skin

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