Queen City Skin

Dr. Elizabeth Rostan & Dr. Emily O. McLean

Welcome to Queen City Skin, the podcast where skincare meets science. Hosted by board-certified dermatologists Dr. Elizabeth Rostan, Founder of Charlotte Skin & Laser; and Dr. Emily O. McLean, a physician at Charlotte Skin & Laser. We're here to cut through the noise — from social media myths to marketing hype — and bring you clear, evidence-based advice on caring for your skin at every stage of life.

  1. APR 15

    31. Why Is My Face Always Red?

    Redness is not always acne, and treating it like acne could be making things worse. In this Rosacea Awareness Month replay, Dr. Elizabeth Rostan breaks down what rosacea really is, why it shows up, and how to finally get it under control with the right approach. She walks through the different subtypes, common triggers, and the combination of skincare, prescriptions, and in-office treatments that truly make a difference. You will also hear from Nurse Robyn Allen, who shares her personal experience managing rosacea over time, and Derek, a Charlotte Skin & Laser patient who found real relief after Vbeam laser treatments. Their stories bring the science to life and offer a clear, honest look at what works and what to expect. Robyn Allen, RN, is a registered nurse at Charlotte Skin & Laser with over 16 years of experience in cosmetic dermatology.  Resources mentioned: Rosacea Treatment at Charlotte Skin & LaserProducts at The SkinStore for Rosacea-Prone SkinLaser Treatment of Redness at Charlotte Skin & Laser In this episode, you’ll learn…  Rosacea is not one-size-fits-all. It includes multiple subtypes, and many patients experience a combination, which is why personalized treatment matters.Your daily habits play a major role. Sun exposure, heat, skincare products, and even workouts can trigger flares, so identifying patterns is key.Real results come from a layered approach. Gentle skincare, targeted prescriptions, and treatments like Vbeam laser work together to reduce redness and restore confidence.Welcome to Queen City Skin, the podcast where skincare meets science. Hosted by board-certified dermatologists Dr. Elizabeth Rostan, Founder of Charlotte Skin & Laser; and Dr. Emily O. McLean, a physician at Charlotte Skin & Laser. We're here to cut through the noise — from social media myths to marketing hype — and bring you clear, evidence-based advice on caring for your skin at every stage of life. Connect with Us:  WebsiteInstagramYouTubeFacebook Phone: 704-333-9113

    42 min

  2. APR 1

    30. All About Accutane | A Patient and Dermatology Perspective with Jane Lewis

    If you’ve ever Googled Accutane and felt overwhelmed, you’re not alone. What you find online can feel confusing, even intimidating, but the reality of treatment is often very different. In this episode of Queen City Skin, Dr. Emily O. McLean is joined by medical assistant Jane Lewis to break down what isotretinoin, commonly known as Accutane, is really like from both a clinical and patient perspective. Together, they walk through what treatment looks like month to month, how side effects are managed, and why this medication can be life-changing for patients with acne. Jane shares her personal experience taking Accutane as a teenager and now guiding patients through the process in clinic. Her dual perspective offers reassurance, practical tips, and a clear understanding of what to expect every step of the way. Jane Lewis graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 2023 with a B.S. in Psychology. She has spent the past two years working as a medical assistant at Charlotte Skin and Laser, where she has gained hands-on clinical experience in dermatology. Jane plans to attend physician assistant school and hopes to build a career centered on compassionate, patient-centered care. Resources mentioned: Acne Treatment at Charlotte Skin & LaserLaser Acne Treatment at Charlotte Skin & Laser 3 Things to Know Before Starting Accutane Accutane is highly effective for the right patients. For moderate to severe acne or acne that risks scarring, isotretinoin can dramatically improve skin and help prevent long-term damage.Side effects are expected but manageable. Dryness is common, but with the right support, routine check-ins, and simple strategies, most patients tolerate treatment very well.Clear skin is just the beginning.Accutane is a powerful reset, but long-term skin health depends on maintenance with sunscreen, gentle skincare, and often a topical retinoid.Welcome to Queen City Skin, the podcast where skincare meets science. Hosted by board-certified dermatologists Dr. Elizabeth Rostan, Founder of Charlotte Skin & Laser; and Dr. Emily O. McLean, a physician at Charlotte Skin & Laser. We're here to cut through the noise — from social media myths to marketing hype — and bring you clear, evidence-based advice on caring for your skin at every stage of life. Connect with Us:  WebsiteInstagramYouTubeFacebook Phone: 704-333-9113

    30 min

  3. MAR 18

    29. The MA Diaries: Inside the MA Program at Charlotte Skin and Laser

    What if the best way to learn medicine is to jump in and start doing it? In this episode of Queen City Skin, Dr. Emily McLean sits down with two of Charlotte Skin and Laser’s medical assistants, Samantha and Mansi, to talk about what it’s really like to train inside a busy dermatology practice. Both recent graduates preparing for PA school, they share how the program gives them hands-on clinical experience from the very beginning. Together they discuss the learning curve of dermatology, the surprising depth of patient relationships, and the behind-the-scenes work that keeps a clinic running smoothly. From assisting in procedures to counseling patients and navigating insurance approvals, this episode offers a candid look at how the MA program helps shape the next generation of healthcare providers. Mansi Pitalia and Samantha Mitchell are medical assistants at Charlotte Skin and Laser who joined the program after graduating from Clemson University and NC State. Both plan to pursue careers as physician assistants and share how their clinical experience in dermatology is preparing them for the future. Resources mentioned: Charlotte Skin and Laser Medical Assistant Program 3 Things That Make the Charlotte Skin and Laser MA Program Special: Hands-on learning accelerates confidence. Medical assistants begin interacting with patients and assisting with procedures within their first few days in clinic.Great care is a team effort. MAs play a vital role in patient education, procedure support, and navigating complex insurance processes.Work culture shapes future providers. A supportive, collaborative environment helps young clinicians grow while reinforcing compassion and patient-centered care.Welcome to Queen City Skin, the podcast where skincare meets science. Hosted by board-certified dermatologists Dr. Elizabeth Rostan, Founder of Charlotte Skin & Laser; and Dr. Emily O. McLean, a physician at Charlotte Skin & Laser. We're here to cut through the noise — from social media myths to marketing hype — and bring you clear, evidence-based advice on caring for your skin at every stage of life. Connect with Us:  WebsiteInstagramYouTubeFacebook Phone: 704-333-9113

    29 min

  4. MAR 4

    28. Signs of Aging Eyes | How to Treat Dark Circles, Puffiness, and Aging Eyelids

    The eyes are the windows to the soul and often the first canvas upon which time leaves its mark. If you find yourself bothered by dark circles, puffiness, fine lines, or sagging skin around the eyes, you are not alone. In this episode, Dr. Elizabeth Rostan reveals why dark circles, puffiness, fine lines, and loss of definition around the eyes demand a sophisticated, multi-modal approach. If your eyes are communicating fatigue rather than vitality, this conversation illuminates what's truly happening, and what genuinely works to refresh and sustain results over time. Resources mentioned: EltaMD Renew Eye GelBlepharoplasty at Charlotte Skin & LaserNeuromodulator Relaxers at Charlotte Skin & LaserFraxel Treatment at Charlotte Skin & LaserMicroneedling at Charlotte Skin & Laser 3 Truths About Aging Eyes: Dark circles are not one problem. They can come from pigment, visible blood vessels beneath thin skin, or volume loss that creates shadowing. Identifying the true cause matters, because each one requires a different approach.The eye area is structural, not just surface-level. What looks like a tired under-eye often begins in the cheek, the brow, or shifts in facial contour over time. Restoring balance thoughtfully creates more natural results than simply filling a hollow.Maintenance makes the magic happen. The eyelid skin is thin and constantly in motion, which means it responds well to treatment but also needs consistency. The right eye cream and strategic in-office treatments help preserve brightness over time.Welcome to Queen City Skin, the podcast where skincare meets science. Hosted by board-certified dermatologists Dr. Elizabeth Rostan, Founder of Charlotte Skin & Laser; and Dr. Emily O. McLean, a physician at Charlotte Skin & Laser. We're here to cut through the noise — from social media myths to marketing hype — and bring you clear, evidence-based advice on caring for your skin at every stage of life. Connect with Us:  WebsiteInstagramYouTubeFacebook Phone: 704-333-9113

    18 min

  5. FEB 18

    27. The Truth About “Natural” Skincare | Dermatologists’ Take on Clean Beauty

    Clean. Natural. Non-toxic. Those words sound comforting, but in skincare, they often mean more about marketing than medicine. In this episode, Dr. Elizabeth Rostan and Dr. Emily O. McLean unpack what labels like “clean,” “natural,” “organic,” and even “medical grade” really mean. They explore why these terms are largely unregulated, how trusted brands test products for safety and efficacy, and why natural does not automatically equal safe. From parabens and essential oils to natural deodorants and DIY scrubs, they address the myths driving today’s skincare fears and offer science-based clarity you can trust.  If you’ve ever wondered whether your “clean beauty” routine is helping or harming your skin, this conversation will help you think critically, choose wisely, and feel confident in your decisions. Resources mentioned: Charlotte Skin and Laser Skin Store 3 Ways to Think Smarter About “Natural” Skincare: Stop assuming “natural” means safer. Poison ivy is natural. Arsenic is natural. In skincare, those words are marketing terms, not medical standards. Safety comes from testing, not trendiness.Remember that dose and exposure matter. Ingredients like parabens and aluminum have decades of safety data when used topically in small amounts. Fear often spreads faster than science, and removing well-studied ingredients can actually increase irritation.Protect your barrier first. Essential oils, heavily fragranced deodorants, and DIY scrubs are common triggers for dermatitis. When in doubt, patch test on the inner arm for a few days before applying something new to your face or underarms.Welcome to Queen City Skin, the podcast where skincare meets science. Hosted by board-certified dermatologists Dr. Elizabeth Rostan, Founder of Charlotte Skin & Laser; and Dr. Emily O. McLean, a physician at Charlotte Skin & Laser. We're here to cut through the noise — from social media myths to marketing hype — and bring you clear, evidence-based advice on caring for your skin at every stage of life. Connect with Us:  WebsiteInstagramYouTubeFacebook Phone: 704-333-9113

    25 min

  6. FEB 4

    26. The Rise of Skin Renewal | Growth Factors, Peptides, Exosomes, & Regenerative Medicine Explained

    Growth factors, peptides, and exosomes sound futuristic, but they are already reshaping how we heal, rejuvenate, and maintain skin. In this episode, Dr. Elizabeth Rostan walks through what these regenerative tools actually are, how they function in the skin, and where the science ends and the hype begins. She explains how they are used before and after laser treatments, how they support recovery and long-term maintenance, and why professional guidance matters as this category continues to evolve. If you are interested in skin renewal that works with your body’s natural processes, this conversation will provide you clarity and perspective. Resources mentioned: The Skin Store at Charlotte Skin and LaserSkinCeuticals P-TIOXSkinCeuticals Advanced RGN-6In this episode, you’ll learn: Growth factors, peptides, and exosomes are signaling tools that stimulate the skin’s own renewal rather than replacing it.Layering peptides before, after, and between laser treatments can improve healing, reduce downtime, and extend results.Exosomes represent a powerful regenerative frontier, but quality, sourcing, and professional oversight matter.Welcome to Queen City Skin, the podcast where skincare meets science. Hosted by board-certified dermatologists Dr. Elizabeth Rostan, Founder of Charlotte Skin & Laser; and Dr. Emily O. McLean, a physician at Charlotte Skin & Laser. We're here to cut through the noise — from social media myths to marketing hype — and bring you clear, evidence-based advice on caring for your skin at every stage of life. Connect with Us:  WebsiteInstagramYouTubeFacebook Phone: 704-333-9113

    14 min

  7. JAN 21

    25. Hair Loss Isn’t Hopeless | What’s Normal, What’s Not, and What Actually Works with Robyn Allen, RN

    Few things spark anxiety like noticing more hair in the shower drain. But surprisingly, not all hair loss is the same, and not all of it is permanent. Dr. Elizabeth Rostan and Robyn Allen, RN, walk through the most common types of hair loss, why they happen, and how dermatologists evaluate what’s actually going on beneath the surface. From stress-related shedding and hormone-driven thinning to scarring conditions that require early intervention, they clarify what’s normal, what deserves attention, and why modern, personalized treatment plans can make a meaningful difference for many patients. Robyn Allen, RN, is a registered nurse at Charlotte Skin & Laser with over 16 years of experience in cosmetic dermatology. She works closely with Dr. Rostan in hair loss evaluation and treatment, including PRP and laser-based therapies, and assists with a wide range of aesthetic and surgical dermatology procedures. Resources mentioned: Hair Restoration at Charlotte Skin & LaserKeraLase Treatment at Charlotte Skin & LaserCustom HydraFacial™ at Charlotte Skin & LaserREVIAN RED Hair Growth SystemViviscal® ProXtressé™ Hair Growth GummiesDefenAge® Pro 150K Hair Follicle SerumIn this episode, you’ll learn: Not all hair loss means permanent thinning. Sudden shedding after stress, illness, hormonal changes, or weight loss is often reversible once the trigger is addressed and the growth cycle resets.Pattern matters more than the hair you see in the drain. Thinning at the front or crown, widening parts, or a receding hairline signal different causes than diffuse shedding, and require different treatments.Successful hair regrowth is usually multifactorial. The best results come from combining medical therapy, targeted topicals, in-office treatments, and lifestyle support rather than relying on a single solution.Welcome to Queen City Skin, the podcast where skincare meets science. Hosted by board-certified dermatologists Dr. Elizabeth Rostan, Founder of Charlotte Skin & Laser; and Dr. Emily O. McLean, a physician at Charlotte Skin & Laser. We're here to cut through the noise — from social media myths to marketing hype — and bring you clear, evidence-based advice on caring for your skin at every stage of life. Connect with Us:  WebsiteInstagramYouTubeFacebook Phone: 704-333-9113

    44 min

  8. JAN 7

    24. Beauty Sleep IS a Real Thing | Why Sleep Shows on Your Skin

    If you’ve ever looked in the mirror after a bad night’s sleep and thought, “I look exhausted,” you weren’t imagining it. In this episode of Queen City Skin, Dr. Elizabeth Rostan is joined by Robyn Allen, RN, to unpack why sleep may be one of the most powerful (and most overlooked) tools for healthy, resilient skin. From overnight barrier repair and inflammation control to acne flares, rosacea, dark circles, and accelerated aging, this conversation connects the dots between how well you sleep and what you see in the mirror. They also discuss an FDA-approved technology the team recently studied that may help improve sleep quality, and why better sleep doesn’t just feel good, it shows. Robyn Allen, RN, is a registered nurse at Charlotte Skin & Laser with over 16 years of experience in cosmetic dermatology, assisting with advanced procedures including lasers, liposuction, blepharoplasty, and skin cancer surgery. Resources mentioned: NeuroStar® Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)Why We Sleep by Matthew Walker PhDIn this episode you’ll learn: Sleep is when your skin repairs and resets. Overnight rest strengthens the skin barrier, improves hydration and circulation, and supports healing. Poor sleep drives inflammation, dullness, breakouts, and under-eye darkness.Chronic sleep loss accelerates visible aging. Elevated cortisol from poor sleep worsens acne, rosacea, and eczema and speeds collagen breakdown, making stress and fatigue show up faster on your face.Your results depend on your rest. Skincare products, lasers, injectables, and other treatments work best when your body is well-rested. Sleep creates the foundation for better outcomes and longer-lasting results.Welcome to Queen City Skin, the podcast where skincare meets science. Hosted by board-certified dermatologists Dr. Elizabeth Rostan, Founder of Charlotte Skin & Laser; and Dr. Emily O. McLean, a physician at Charlotte Skin & Laser. We're here to cut through the noise — from social media myths to marketing hype — and bring you clear, evidence-based advice on caring for your skin at every stage of life. Connect with Us:  WebsiteInstagramYouTubeFacebook Phone: 704-333-9113

    21 min
See All (31)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
11 Ratings

About

Welcome to Queen City Skin, the podcast where skincare meets science. Hosted by board-certified dermatologists Dr. Elizabeth Rostan, Founder of Charlotte Skin & Laser; and Dr. Emily O. McLean, a physician at Charlotte Skin & Laser. We're here to cut through the noise — from social media myths to marketing hype — and bring you clear, evidence-based advice on caring for your skin at every stage of life.

Information

  • Creator
    Dr. Elizabeth Rostan & Dr. Emily O. McLean
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    31
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Queen City Skin
  • Show Website
    Queen City Skin

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