After Hours Skin Clinic

By Raconteur StudiosMedicine Health & Fitness Arts Fashion & Beauty

After Hours Skin Clinic episodes

July 30Social Media Skincare Advice: Who Can You Trust?
In this episode of the After Hours Skin Clinic podcast, Consultant Dermatologists Dr Emma Craythorne and Dr Ellie Rashid discuss why misleading skincare advice spreads so quickly online, how social media algorithms reward sensational claims, and what to look for when deciding who to trust.
In this episode:
Why skincare misinformation spreads so quickly

Can you trust skincare influencers?

How to tell if advice is evidence-based

Why dermatologist-led education matters

The truth about viral sunscreen myths

How to spot misleading skincare claims and why qualifications matter

Emma and Ellie's experiences creating educational content online.
If you've ever wondered who you should believe when it comes to skincare advice, this episode will help you separate fact from fiction.
👇 Have you come across skincare misinformation online? Let us know in the comments.
🔔 Subscribe for dermatologist-led, evidence-based skincare.
🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts & Spotify.

Producer: Ella Blaxill
Series Editor: Eve Streeter
Music: Simon Elms

This is a Raconteur Studios Production.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
22 min
July 23The Truth About Milia: Don't Try to Pop These White Bumps
What are milia? Should you squeeze them? And why do they keep coming back?
In this episode of the After Hours Skin Clinic podcast, Consultant Dermatologists Dr Emma Craythorne and Dr Ellie Rashid explain everything you need to know about milia, the tiny white bumps that commonly appear around the eyes, cheeks and face.
Often mistaken for whiteheads or spots, milia are one of the most common skin concerns dermatologists are asked about. Emma and Ellie explain what causes them, why they won't pop like a pimple, when they disappear on their own, and the safest way to remove them.
They also tackle some of the biggest myths circulating on social media, including DIY extraction techniques, home remedies and whether certain skincare products can make milia worse.
Whether you've had milia yourself, noticed them on your baby, or are simply wondering what those tiny white bumps on your skin actually are, this episode is packed with practical, evidence-based advice from two consultant dermatologists.
This episode covers:
What are milia?

Milia vs whiteheads: what's the difference?

Why you shouldn't squeeze milia

What causes milia to develop?

Can moisturisers and eye creams cause milia?

Why babies commonly develop milia

The link between sun damage and milia

Can retinoids help prevent milia?

The safest way to remove milia

Why DIY extraction can lead to infection and scarring

Common milia myths debunked

When you should see a dermatologist
Emma and Ellie also explain why milia become more common with age, why they often develop around the eyes, and what they personally recommend to patients in clinic.
If you've ever searched "How do I get rid of milia?" or "What are the tiny white bumps on my face?", this episode is for you.

👇 Let us know your skincare questions in the comments.
🔔 Subscribe for dermatologist-led, evidence-based skincare.
👀 Watch us on YouTube.

Producer: Ella Blaxill
Series Editor: Eve Streeter
Music: Simon Elms

This is a Raconteur Studios Production.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
15 min
July 16How to Cleanse Your Face Properly (According to Dermatologists)
Are you washing your face the right way? Is double cleansing
always necessary? And why do dermatologists say that "squeaky clean"
skin is actually a bad thing?
In this episode of the After Hours Skin Clinic podcast,
Consultant Dermatologists Dr Emma Craythorne and Dr Ellie Rashid explain everything you need to know about facial cleansers, skin barriers and how to choose the right cleanser for your skin type.
From acne-prone skin and eczema to rosacea and sensitive
skin, Emma and Ellie break down how cleansers work, why some can damage your skin barrier, and why an expensive cleanser isn't necessarily a better one.
You'll learn why cleansing is one of the most important steps in your skincare, how easy it is to get wrong, and how using the incorrect
product could be undoing the benefits of the rest of your routine.
This episode covers:
Are you washing your face the right way? Yes, there
is a right way!

Why "squeaky clean" skin is a warning sign

How cleansers actually work

The truth about double cleansing

How to choose the right cleanser for your skin type

The difference between cream, foaming and salicylic acid
cleansers

Cleansers for acne, rosacea, eczema and sensitive skin

Why your skin barrier matters

Should you use hot or cold water?

How long should you cleanse for?

Do expensive cleansers work better?

Should you wash your face in the morning?

Are cleansing brushes and facial scrubs damaging your skin?
Emma and Ellie also explain why cleanser is one of the most important steps in any skincare routine, how to avoid over-cleansing, and the
simple techniques they recommend to patients every day in clinic.
This episode includes a paid partnership with @cerave, a skincare brand developed with dermatologists, focused on repairing and strengthening the skin barrier. Emma and Ellie discuss the different CeraVe cleanser formulations and how they may suit different skin types and concerns.
If you've ever felt overwhelmed by the number of cleansers
available, or wondered whether you're actually cleansing your skin correctly, then this episode is for you.
👇 Let us know your skincare questions in
the comments.
🔔 Subscribe for dermatologist-led, evidence-based skincare.
🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts & Spotify.
🎥 Watch us on YouTube @afterhoursskinclinic.
Find us on Instagram and TikTok @afterhoursskinclinic.

Products mentioned:
CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser

CeraVe Foaming Cleanser

CeraVe Blemish Control Cleanser

CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser
Dr Emma and Dr Ellie’s Cleanser cheat-sheet…
Dry
CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser
Gently removes dirt while helping support the skin barrier with ceramides and hyaluronic acid.

Sensitive
CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser
A gentle, non-stripping formula that's suitable for easily irritated skin.

Eczema-prone
CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser
Cleanses without leaving skin feeling tight or "squeaky clean".

Rosacea-prone
CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser
A gentle cream cleanser that's less likely to disrupt an already sensitive skin barrier.

Normal skin
CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser or Foaming Cleanser
Choose based on your preferred texture—cream or foam.

Combination skin
CeraVe Foaming Cleanser
Removes excess oil while helping maintain the skin barrier.

Oily skin
CeraVe Foaming Cleanser
Cleanses away oil and impurities without leaving skin stripped.

Breakout-prone
CeraVe Blemish Control Cleanser
Contains 2% salicylic acid & Niacinamide. It Unclogs pores & helps regulate excess oil. Also suitable for those who may be prone to acne.

Blackheads & clogged pores
CeraVe Blemish Control Cleanser
Contains 2% salicylic acid. It penetrates & unclogs pores to help clear congestion.

Bumpy Body Skin
CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser
Contains 2% Salicylic acid. It gently exfoliates while moisturising to help support the skin barrier. Also suitable for those prone to Keratosis Pilaris (KP).

Body Breakouts
CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser
A practical body cleanser for breakout-prone areas. Also suitable for those who may be prone to acne on their body.
Disclaimer: This cheat sheet is not part of the episode sponsorship, recommendations are Emma & Ellie’s own.

Producer: Ella Blaxill
Series Editor: Eve Streeter
Music: Simon Elms

This is a Raconteur Studios Production.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
29 min
July 0910 Skin Truths Every Dermatologist Wants You to Know (Episode 100!)
What are the biggest skincare myths dermatologists wish everyone would stop believing? Here’s Consultant dermatologists Dr Emma Craythorne’s and Dr Ellie Rashid’s top ten skin truths.
To celebrate the 100th episode of the After Hours Skin Clinic podcast, Consultant Dermatologists Dr Emma Craythorne and Dr Ellie Rashid share their ten biggest skin truths. Evidence-based advice they wish every patient knew.
From sunscreen and pores to expensive skincare, hydration, dandruff and skin cancer, Emma and Ellie separate fact from fiction, debunk some of the internet's biggest skincare myths, and explain what really matters when it comes to healthy skin.
Whether you're building your first skincare routine or trying to make sense of conflicting advice on social media, this episode is packed with practical, science-backed guidance from two consultant dermatologists.
This episode covers:
The biggest skincare myths dermatologists hear every day

Can you really open and close your pores?

Does shaving make hair grow back thicker?

How to understand your own skin type

Why "medical grade" skincare is mostly a marketing term

Should you trust skincare claims and before-and-after photos?

Does expensive skincare actually work better?

Why consistency beats complicated skincare routines

Why wearing sunscreen every day matters for skin ageing

Does drinking more water hydrate your skin?

What skin cancer really looks like (it's not what you might think)

What dandruff actually is and why oils can make it worse
Emma and Ellie also discuss why personalised skincare is more effective than copying someone else's routine, how to avoid misleading marketing claims, and the simple habits that have the biggest impact on long-term skin health.
Whether you're new to skincare or a lifelong skincare enthusiast, these are the skin truths every dermatologist wishes more people knew.

👇 Let us know your thoughts in the comments
Find us on ⁠Instagram⁠
👀 Watch us on ⁠Youtube⁠
🔔 Subscribe for dermatologist-led, evidence-based skincare.
🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts & Spotify.

Products mentioned:
Nizoral® (Ketoconazole 2%) Shampoo

Klira⁠ - Founded by Dr Emma Craythorne, Klira is a bespoke luxury skincare formula prescribed by dermatologists. You may hear it mentioned from time to time on the podcast and if you want to find out more head over to ⁠klira.skin⁠

Producer: Ella Blaxill
Series Editor: Eve Streeter
Music: Simon Elms
This is a Raconteur Studios Production.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
21 min
July 02The Summer Skincare Advice You Actually Need
Summer can be one of the easiest times to accidentally damage your skin.
In this episode of the After Hours Skin Clinic podcast, Consultant Dermatologists Dr Emma Craythorne and Dr Ellie Rashid answer the questions they're asked every year about preparing your skin for summer.
Should you wax before your holiday? Is a "base tan" ever a good idea? Do you need a complicated skincare routine on a flight? And can I use last year's sunscreen?
Emma and Ellie explain how to time beauty treatments to minimise irritation and pigmentation, why sunbeds are never worth the risk, and how simple changes to your routine can help keep your skin healthy all summer long.
This episode covers:
Preparing your skin for summer

Laser hair removal, waxing and shaving before holidays

How to avoid post-inflammatory pigmentation

Retinoids, exfoliating acids and summer skincare

In-flight skincare myths

Holiday acne and travel breakouts

Perfume, essential oils and UV reactions

Lime juice and phytophotodermatitis

Why a "base tan" doesn't protect your skin

The risks of sunbeds and skin cancer

When to replace your sunscreen

Favourite summer skincare essentials
Whether you're planning a beach holiday, spending more time outdoors or simply want to protect your skin this summer, this episode is packed with practical, evidence-based advice from two consultant dermatologists.

👇 Let us know your thoughts in the comments

👀 Watch us on Youtube
🔔 Subscribe for dermatologist-led, evidence-based skincare.

Products mentioned:
Ultrasun Lip Protection SPF

NUXE Huile Prodigieuse® Or (Shimmer Dry Oil)

Producer: Ella Blaxill
Series Editor: Eve Streeter
Music: Simon Elms

This is a Raconteur Studios Production.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
26 min
June 25Keratosis Pilaris Explained: The Best Treatments for Strawberry Skin
Consultant dermatologists Dr Emma Craythorne and Dr Ellie Rashid explain what keratosis pilaris (KP), also known as strawberry skin or chicken skin, actually is, why it develops around hair follicles, and which evidence-based treatments work best, including lactic acid, urea creams, chemical exfoliants, retinoids, moisturisers and laser hair removal.

In this episode:
What keratosis pilaris (KP) actually is

Why people call it strawberry skin or chicken skin

The real cause of keratosis pilaris

Why KP often runs in families

The connection between hair follicles, keratin and inflammation

Why KP gets worse during winter

The truth about physical exfoliation and scrubs

Lactic acid vs salicylic acid: which works best?

The role of urea creams and moisturisers

When retinoids may help

Why laser hair removal may be one of the most effective treatments

How to prevent redness and pigmentation

Key Takeaways:
Keratosis pilaris affects around 50% of people

Physical scrubbing can make KP worse

Chemical exfoliants outperform mechanical exfoliation

10% lactic acid appears more effective than 5% salicylic acid

Urea-based moisturisers help soften and smooth rough skin

Consistent moisturising supports the skin barrier

SPF helps prevent post-inflammatory pigmentation

Laser hair removal may provide longer-term improvement

Products Mentioned:
Ameliorate Transforming Body Lotion

Eucerin UreaRepair

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid

CeraVe SA Smoothing Range

Cetaphil Salicylic Acid Range

Subscribe for evidence-based skincare advice from consultant dermatologists.

Follow & Connect:
Instagram: @afterhoursskinclinic
Email: [email protected]

Producer: Ella Blaxill
Exec: Eve Streeter
Music by Simon Elms.

This is a Raconteur Studios Production.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
27 min
June 18Chemical vs Mineral Sunscreens: The Truth According to Experts
Do mineral sunscreens really work better than chemical sunscreens? Are chemical filters actually harmful? And what should you believe when sunscreen misinformation is everywhere?
In this episode of the After Hours Skin Clinic podcast, Consultant Dermatologists Dr Emma Craythorne and Dr Ellie Rashid tackle one of the most controversial topics in skincare: the debate between mineral and chemical sunscreens.
From TikTok myths and conspiracy theories to concerns about ingredient absorption, coral reefs, vitamin D, and skin cancer, Emma and Ellie break down what the evidence actually says about sunscreen safety and effectiveness.
They explain why sunscreen remains one of the most important tools we have for preventing skin cancer, pigmentation, and premature ageing — and why fear-based misinformation could be putting people at risk.

This episode covers:
Mineral vs chemical sunscreens: what's the difference?

Are chemical sunscreen filters absorbed into the body?

The truth about oxybenzone and sunscreen safety studies

Why absorption does not equal toxicity

Common sunscreen myths circulating on social media

Do sunscreens cause cancer?

What the evidence says about skin cancer prevention

Coral reefs, environmental concerns, and sunscreen bans

Can sunscreen cause vitamin D deficiency?

Why UV exposure still damages skin, even in the UK

How sunscreen helps prevent pigmentation and premature ageing

The importance of UVA, UVB and visible light protection

Why finding a sunscreen you enjoy using matters most

The best sunscreen formulations for different skin types
Emma and Ellie also share the sunscreens they regularly recommend in clinic, discuss why sunscreen technology has improved dramatically over the past decade, and explain why the "mineral versus chemical" debate isn't actually a competition at all.
This episode includes a paid partnership with Eucerin, a skincare brand with a long history of dermatological research. During the episode, Emma and Ellie discuss Eucerin Oil Control Gel Cream SPF50+ and the formulation features that may make it suitable for oily and acne-prone skin. All opinions expressed remain those of the hosts.
If you've ever felt confused by conflicting sunscreen advice online, this episode will help you separate evidence from misinformation.

👇 Let us know your thoughts in the comments
🔔 Subscribe for dermatologist-led, evidence-based skincare
🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts & Spotify

Products mentioned:
Eucerin Oil Control Gel Cream SPF50+

Altruist Sunscreen

Klira The DayScript

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Aqua-Fresh Rice Sunscreen

Producer: Ella Blaxill
Series Editor: Eve Streeter
Music: Simon Elms

This is a Raconteur Studios Production.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
35 min
June 11Rosacea vs Flushing: What's Causing Your Facial Redness?
Why do some people blush more than others? When is facial redness simply normal, and when could it be rosacea?
In this episode of After Hours Skin Clinic, consultant dermatologists Dr Emma Craythorne and Dr Ellie Rashid discuss the causes of facial flushing, blushing and persistent redness, and explain the treatments available for rosacea and other common triggers.
They cover the science behind emotional blushing, menopause-related flushing, alcohol flush reactions, visible facial blood vessels and chronic facial redness. They also share practical skincare advice, treatment options and dermatologist-recommended sunscreens for sensitive, rosacea-prone skin.
Topics covered:
Facial flushing and blushing

Rosacea symptoms and diagnosis

Menopause hot flushes

Alcohol flush reaction

Emotional blushing and anxiety

Azelaic acid and ivermectin

Brimonidine and beta blockers

Laser treatment for redness

Micro-Botox for rosacea

Sunscreens for sensitive skin
Products and Treatments Mentioned:
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser

Azelaic Acid

Ivermectin 1% Cream

TretinoinBrimonidine

Propranolol

Carvedilol

HRT

Fezolinetant

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Children's Fluid SPF

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Comfort SPF

Garnier Sensitive Advanced UV Fluid with Niacinamide & Hyaluronic Acid

Follow & Connect:
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@AfterHoursSkinClinic
Instagram: @afterhoursskinclinic
Email: [email protected]

Producer: Ella Blaxill
Series Editor: Eve Streeter
Music: Simon Elms

A Raconteur Studios Production.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
24 min
June 04 A Love Letter To Skin: The Story Behind Emma's New Book
Wish you had all the skincare advice and information you need in one place?
This week's episode is a little different from your usual After Hours Skin Clinic. Dr Emma Craythorne has written a book, Skin: An Owner's Guide, and Dr Ellie Rashid is putting her in the hot seat to talk all about it.
Emma shares why she swore she'd never write another book after her first experience, what inspired her to create Skin: An Owner's Guide, and the skin science she believes everyone should understand. From the skin barrier and microbiome to ageing, skincare ingredients and common skin conditions, this conversation is a behind-the-scenes look at the book Emma describes as her "love letter to skin".
Plus, we'll be giving away signed copies of the book.
To enter, head over to our Instagram
Please check the competition dates before entering.
⁠Klira⁠ – Founded by Dr Emma Craythorne, Klira creates bespoke prescription skincare formulated by dermatologists. Find out more at klira.skin.
Follow & Connect with us ⬇️
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@AfterHoursSkinClinic
Instagram: @afterhoursskinclinic
Email: [email protected]
Producer: Ella Blaxill
Executive Producer: Eve Streeter
Music: Simon Elms
This is a Raconteur Studios production.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
20 min
May 28Dry Hands Explained: Eczema, Hidden Allergies, Over-washing & The Best Treatments
Dry hands are not just a winter problem and if your skin is cracking, stinging or constantly flaring, there is usually more going on than “just dryness.”
In this episode of the After Hours Skin Clinic, Dr Emma Craythorne and Dr Ellie Rashid unpack the different types of hand dermatitis, why some people are genetically prone to eczema, and how everyday habits like over-washing, wet work and even handling receipts can quietly damage the skin barrier.
They explain the difference between atopic eczema, irritant dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis and pompholyx eczema, including the hidden allergens that can keep hand eczema going for years without people realising it.

They explore:
Who is especially vulnerable to hand eczema

The role of filaggrin and skin barrier dysfunction

Why soap can make eczema dramatically worse

How patch testing works and why it can completely change treatment outcomes

The surprising reason some steroid creams can worsen eczema

The best soap substitutes and moisturisers for dry, damaged hands

How to protect hands properly with gloves and overnight treatments

New prescription treatments for chronic hand eczema now available through specialist dermatology clinics
There are also practical recommendations throughout the episode, including favourite dermatologist-approved hand creams, cleansers and barrier repair strategies that can genuinely improve painful fissures and chronic dryness.

Products mentioned include:
Dermol 500

Aveeno Hand Ointment

CeraVe Healing Ointment

La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Hands

O’Keeffe’s Working Hands
If your hands are persistently dry, cracked, itchy or inflamed - especially if treatments never seem to fully work - this episode explains what might be missing.

Follow & Connect with us ⬇️
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@AfterHoursSkinClinic
Instagram: ⁠@afterhoursskinclinic⁠
Email: ⁠[email protected]⁠

Producer: Ella Blaxill
Exec: Eve Streeter
Music by Simon Elms.

This is a Raconteur Studios Production.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
30 min

About After Hours Skin Clinic

From the publisher's feed

After Hours Skin Clinic is the expert-led skincare podcast hosted by consultant dermatologists Dr Emma Craythorne and Dr Ellie Rashid. It’s laid-back and information-packed, covering everything you’ve ever wanted to know about your skin and how to look after it.