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Skinfluence with Dr. Dustin Portela

Advertise on podcast: Skinfluence with Dr. Dustin Portela

Rating
★★★★★
4.9
from
88 reviews
This podcast has
58 episodes
Language
English
Explicit
No
Date created
2020/04/04
Latest episode
2026/04/23
Average duration
38 min.
Release period
7 days

Description

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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Check latest episodes from Skinfluence with Dr. Dustin Portela podcast


Episode 44: Celebrities and Skin Conditions — What We Can Learn From the Spotlight
2026/04/23
Celebrities might live in the spotlight, but when it comes to skin conditions, they're dealing with many of the same challenges as everyone else. In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee walk through real examples of well-known public figures who have dealt with skin conditions, and what their stories can teach us. From Kim Kardashian's psoriasis and Winnie Harlow's vitiligo to Michael Jackson's reported depigmentation, they break down what these conditions actually are, how they show up, and what treatment can look like. They also cover cases like rhinophyma in Bill Clinton, melanoma in Teddi Mellencamp, Merkel cell carcinoma in Jimmy Buffett, and discoid lupus in Seal. Along the way, they explain how these conditions develop, why some are more serious than others, and what people should actually watch for when it comes to their own skin. But this episode goes beyond just naming conditions. Dustin and Austin talk about why it matters when public figures open up about their health, how it helps normalize conversations around skin issues, and why it can encourage people to seek care earlier. They also address the downside, including the risks of trying to diagnose people online and the importance of respecting privacy. The bigger takeaway is simple. If you see something on your skin that concerns you, get it checked. Early detection matters, and reassurance is never a waste of time. Product of the Week Kill Switch A sleep support supplement that Dr. Portela uses regularly to help improve sleep quality and recovery. Better sleep plays a major role in overall health, including skin health, and this is one tool he uses to stay consistent. https://www.switchsupplements.com/DUSTIN Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportela YouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDoc YouTube (Educational): @drdustinportela Pinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinl
Episode 43: Adult Acne — Why It Happens and Why It's So Hard to Treat
2026/04/16
Acne isn't just a teenage problem. In fact, more adults than ever are dealing with breakouts, and they often behave very differently than what you experienced growing up. In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee break down the unique causes of adult acne and why it tends to be more stubborn, more inflammatory, and more frustrating to treat. From hormonal shifts and testosterone exposure to stress, sleep disruption, diet, and modern lifestyle habits, they explain why adult acne is becoming more common and why it often shows up differently in men and women. They also walk through the biggest mistakes people make when trying to treat acne at home, including over-scrubbing, using overly aggressive routines, microneedling over inflamed skin, and popping cystic lesions that never come to a head. These habits often make things worse, leading to more inflammation, longer healing times, and higher risk of scarring. On the treatment side, they cover what actually works. From over-the-counter options like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, and niacinamide to prescription treatments like tretinoin, clindamycin, Winlevi, spironolactone, doxycycline, and Accutane. They explain how each works, when to use them, and why there is no one-size-fits-all approach. They also dive into the mental side of acne, especially in adults, where breakouts can impact confidence, work, and daily life in a very real way. The key takeaway is consistency, patience, and working with a professional to find the right combination for your skin. If you're dealing with acne in your 20s, 30s, or beyond, this episode will help you understand what's actually going on and how to treat it the right way. Product of the Week MANTL Complete Skincare Bundle A simple, effective routine that covers the essentials without overcomplicating things. The bundle includes a cleanser, anti-aging moisturizer, and the Invisible Daily SPF, one of Dr. Portela's go-to sunscreens with a clear, matte finish that works especially well for men and anyone with facial hair. Bundle: $30 Invisible Daily SPF: $15 or 2 for $24 Cleanser: $10 Moisturizer: $12 Available at: https://shop.drdustinportela.com/collections/mantl Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportela YouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDoc YouTube (Educational): @drdustinportela Pinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac
Guest Episode: The Future of Healthcare — Can AI Actually Improve Your Doctor Experience?
2026/04/09
What if your doctor was always just a message away… and actually knew you? In this guest episode, Dr. Dustin Portela sits down with Dr. Usama Syde, founder of Future Clinic, to break down how technology, AI, and chat-based care are reshaping the way patients and doctors connect. But this is not about replacing doctors. It is about bringing back something healthcare has quietly lost: real relationships. They dig into why modern medicine feels so fragmented, how the system turned doctors into interchangeable "providers," and why trust between patients and physicians is at an all-time low. From there, the conversation shifts to a new model of care that feels surprisingly simple. You choose your doctor, you build a relationship, and you communicate directly, just like you would with someone you trust. Dr. Syde explains how Future Clinic uses AI the right way. Not to replace medical decisions, but to streamline communication, gather information, and give doctors more time to actually think, care, and connect. The result is a system that feels more personal, more flexible, and more aligned with how people already live their lives. They also get into the real risks of AI in healthcare, where it works, where it absolutely does not, and why removing the human element is a mistake. From doctor burnout to the rise of private equity in medicine, this episode pulls back the curtain on what is actually happening behind the scenes and where things are headed next. If you have ever felt like healthcare has become rushed, impersonal, or harder to navigate, this episode will change how you think about what is possible. Product of the Week Future Clinic A new way to connect directly with a doctor you trust through chat-based care. Build a real relationship, get personalized guidance, and access care in a way that actually fits into your life. Find your doctor or learn more: https://www.futureclinic.com/ Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportela YouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDoc YouTube (Educational): @drdustinportela Pinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac Dr. Usama Syde Instagram: @usamasyde
Episode 42: Pore Size Truth — Can You Actually Shrink Them?
2026/04/02
Pores are one of the most talked-about topics in skincare, and one of the most misunderstood. In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee break down what pores actually are, why they exist, and why the idea of "shrinking" them isn't as straightforward as social media makes it seem. They walk through the biology behind pores, including their role in oil production, skin health, and barrier function, and why they're something you need, not something to erase. The conversation digs into what really determines pore size, from genetics and hormones to oil production and aging. They also explain why pores can appear larger over time and what factors like sun damage, clogged pores, and collagen loss have to do with it. Dustin and Austin cut through the noise on popular trends like "glass skin" and pore-minimizing products, explaining what actually works versus what is just marketing. They also cover how to improve the appearance of pores the right way, including ingredients like retinoids and salicylic acid, proper cleansing, and when in-office treatments may make sense. If you've ever felt like you're chasing smaller pores and not seeing results, this episode will reset expectations and give you a smarter, more effective path forward. Product of the Week Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant A cult-favorite for a reason. This salicylic acid exfoliant helps unclog pores, reduce buildup, and smooth skin texture over time without being overly harsh when used correctly. Differin Gel (Adapalene 0.1%) A powerful over-the-counter retinoid that helps regulate cell turnover, prevent clogged pores, and improve overall skin texture with consistent use. Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportela YouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDoc YouTube (Educational): @drdustinportela Pinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac
Episode 41: Rosacea Explained — Triggers, Treatments, and What Actually Works
2026/03/26
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
Episode 40: Medicine's Biggest Misses: The Skin Treatments We Got Wrong
2026/03/19
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
Episode 39: Skin Biopsies Explained — What Happens and Why You Might Need One
2026/03/12
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
Guest Episode: The Identity Shift That Changes Men and Families with Matt Beaudreau
2026/03/05
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
Episode 38: Grandma's Skincare Advice — What Actually Works and What to Skip
2026/02/26
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
Guest Episode: Therapy Without the Fluff with Trey Tucker
2026/02/19
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  
Episode 37: Psoriasis Explained — Triggers, Treatments, and What Actually Works
2026/02/12
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.
Episode 36: Skincare Marketing Lies, Buzzwords, and How to Shop Smarter
2026/02/05
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
Guest Episode: How Your Mattress Is Quietly Ruining Your Sleep with Derek Hales
2026/01/29
Sleep is one of the most important pillars of health, but the thing you sleep on is often the most overlooked. In this guest episode, Dr. Dustin Portela sits down with mattress expert Derek Hales, Founder and Editor in Chief of NapLab, to break down how your mattress directly affects sleep quality, recovery, and overall health. Derek has tested over 500 mattresses using objective, data-driven methods, and he explains why most people shop for mattresses the wrong way. Together, they talk through firmness, materials, price points, and why lying on a mattress in a store for two minutes tells you almost nothing about how you will actually sleep on it. They also dive into motion transfer, cooling, durability, and why many expensive mattresses are not actually better. The conversation covers how poor sleep impacts skin disease, stress, and mental health, why most people should choose a medium-firm hybrid mattress, how much you actually need to spend, and how to choose a mattress for kids. They also discuss popular sleep tech like Eight Sleep, active cooling systems, and wearables, plus what really matters versus what is just hype. If you have ever wondered whether your mattress is holding you back from better sleep, better recovery, and better health, this episode gives you clear, practical guidance you can actually use. Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportela YouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDoc YouTube (Educational): @drdustinportela Pinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac Guest: Derek Hales Founder and Editor in Chief of NapLab Website: https://naplab.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/naplabreviews/ X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/NapLabReviews TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@naplabreviews YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NapLabReviews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naplabreviews/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dhales/
Episode 35: The Mind Skin Connection and Why Stress Shows Up on Your Face
2026/01/22
Stress does not cause every skin condition, but it can make almost all of them worse. In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee dive into the powerful connection between your mental health and your skin, an area known as psychodermatology. They explain how stress hormones like cortisol disrupt the skin barrier, trigger flares of eczema, psoriasis, acne, and hidradenitis, and fuel cycles like itching, scratching, picking, and hair pulling. The conversation also explores conditions like prurigo nodularis, trichotillomania, compulsive skin picking, and why these symptoms are very real even when they are misunderstood. Dustin and Austin share real clinic stories, discuss sleep deprivation, gut health, antibiotics, probiotics, and why chronic stress quietly affects everything from breakouts to healing. They also break down what actually helps, including better sleep hygiene, walking outside without distractions, mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, and simple daily habits that calm both the nervous system and the skin. This episode is about treating people, not just skin. If you have ever wondered whether stress is affecting your breakouts, rashes, flares, or healing, this conversation will give you clarity, reassurance, and practical tools you can use right away. 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: Kill Switch Sleep Cocoa Kill Switch is the melatonin free sleep supplement Dr. Portela uses to improve sleep quality without morning grogginess. It contains magnesium, GABA, L-theanine, and tart cherry extract to support deeper sleep, better recovery, and improved stress resilience. Better sleep supports better skin, better decisions, and better overall health.
Episode 34: Shelf Wars — Drugstore vs Luxury Skincare and What's Actually Worth It
2026/01/15
Is expensive skincare really better, or is it just better marketing? In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee go head-to-head breaking down drugstore, mid-tier, and luxury skincare products to figure out what's actually worth your money. They walk through every major category, including cleansers, vitamin C, retinol, moisturizers, sunscreen, and eye creams, explaining where you can save, where it makes sense to splurge, and where price makes little to no difference. The conversation cuts through common marketing buzzwords like "dermatologist recommended," "clinically tested," "clean beauty," and "non-comedogenic," translating what those labels really mean when you're standing in the aisle or scrolling online. You'll also hear honest takes on viral skincare trends like slugging, glass skin, and skin cycling, plus real-world insights on ingredient lists, product formulations, and why consistency matters more than brand loyalty. To wrap things up, Dr. Portela shares a complete beginner-friendly skincare routine that covers all the essentials without unnecessary extras. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by skincare options or wondered whether luxury products actually deliver better results, this episode gives you the clarity you need to shop smarter and build a routine that works. 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 https://www.airehealth.com/Solutions/NjQyMDA= 

Podcast reviews

Read Skinfluence with Dr. Dustin Portela podcast reviews


4.9 out of 5
88 reviews
★★★★★
N Galaria 2025/04/10
Highly recommend!
Dr.Portela is a great dermatologist who has the rare ability to distill info down into easily digestible chunks that anyone can understand. It’s also ...
★★★★★
JosieTour 2025/04/10
Informative and Easy to Understand
Loving this new duo! I’m glad they provided us with some new info that hasn’t already been talked about online in the dermatology world over and over ...
★★★★★
LLKoolK. 2025/04/10
DermDaddy’s Bro
DermDaddy’s little brother is HOT! Step aside DD, Austin is in the house!
★★★★★
yuliwang08 2020/09/29
Relevant for all!
I found Dr. Portela's podcast to be approachable for all walks of life-- skin care beginners/gurus, pharmacists, dermatologist/NP/PA (me!) esthetician...
★★★★★
arlloyd 2020/07/06
Great Info!!
I found Dr. Portela on TikTok. I love is videos and learn so much. Then I discovered he has a podcast. I found it and started listening immediately. D...
★☆☆☆☆
ShellyListens 2020/09/23
Horribly irresponsible false statements
In the July episode about acne, it is pretty clear to anyone with a brain that both these dermatologists have received all their education regarding p...
★☆☆☆☆
HeadscratcherChick 2020/09/04
Wait....what?
I wanted to take this podcast seriously, but when a board certified dermatologist has to interview a Tik Tok influencer.... I. Just. Can’t.
★★★★★
sbennett27 2020/06/26
Interesting and Informative
This podcast is very engaging and easy to listen to. Dr. Portela clearly knows his stuff but speaks in a way that is easy to understand. He’s also fun...
★★★★★
k.k.armstrong 2020/06/10
Education and Transparency
Love Dr portella’s show for his transparency and education! Makes me feel like I can make better and informed choices without being sold on anything ....
★★★★★
Jtaylor16752 2020/05/27
Great podcast
Whether you are new to skincare or an experienced individual, there is something for everyone in this podcast. Great topics and advice ! Amazing job !
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