Things are getting spooky at A SkinDepth Convo! Hosts Anna Kagarakis, Metaxia Dalikas, and Francine Kagarakis are joined by the rest of the fabulous founders of Lira Clinical, Brenda Cumming, and Anna Konstantin, for a Halloween special you don’t want to miss.

From real-life treatment room scares to lessons learned the hard way, these skincare pros share chilling (and hilarious) stories that remind us why education, safety, and the right products are no trick; they’re the ultimate treat.

So grab your pumpkin spice latte, light that candle, and tune in… if you dare!

This October, in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we're sharing a deeply personal and inspiring story from Lira Clinical Co-Founder Metaxia Dalikas. As a breast cancer survivor, Metaxia opens up about her journey of courage, faith, and resilience, both in her personal battle and in her leadership of a global skincare company.

In this powerful episode, Metaxia discusses her diagnosis and treatment experience, the challenges of balancing her health while running a business, and the incredible support she received from her family and Lira Clinical co-owners. She also shares expert advice on caring for your skin before, during, and after cancer treatments.

Joining the conversation is fellow Lira Clinical founder and host Francine Kagarakis, who stood by Metaxia's side throughout her entire journey. Together, they offer hope, practical guidance, and inspiration for anyone facing similar challenges.

Join us for an exciting episode as we explore the beauty and skincare landscape down under! We're welcoming special guests from Lira Clinical's Australia and New Zealand distribution teams - Kristen Schultz and Jo-Ann Slecht - along with Lira Clinical founders Metaxia Dalikas and Francine Kagarakis, plus owner Brenda Cumming.

Discover the top skin conditions affecting the Oceania region and learn about the treatments and products making a real impact for clients. We'll also take you behind the scenes of the Global Skin Affair tour with exclusive highlights from the event.



As a bonus, our local experts will share insider travel tips and hidden gems you won't find in any guidebook. And yes, we'll even get the scoop on Vegemite and Kangaroo DNA!

On the new episode of A SkinDepth Convo, we're diving deep into our new favorite seasonal ingredient: Pumpkin!

When you think of pumpkin, your mind might go straight to lattes, pies, and fall decorations. But did you know it's also a powerhouse ingredient in skincare? Packed with vitamins and minerals, pumpkin brightens, hydrates, and repairs the skin, making it a true multitasking marvel. It's more than just a seasonal craze; it's a skincare game-changer.

Join our hosts Metaxia Dalikas, Francine Kagarakis, and Anna Kagarakis as they're joined by the Lira Clinical Education Team, Tiffany Fraedrich, George Gallegos, and Lu Ramos. Together, they get spicy discussing the new Pumpkin Plus Smart Peel™ from Lira Clinical and share fascinating facts about the pumpkin spice phenomenon, which has grown into an $800 million industry.

Listen now to uncover the powerful benefits of pumpkin and learn how a simple marketing idea from Starbucks in 2003 evolved into a global sensation.

In the latest episode of A SkinDepth Convo, hosts Metaxia, Francine, and Anna explore one of dermatology's most critical topics: skin cancer treatment through Mohs surgery.

Did you know success rates for Mohs Surgery are over 99% for basal cell carcinoma?

Joining us is Dr. Mariam Mafee MD, a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Rush University Medical Center (rush.edu) in Chicago. Known for her surgical expertise and compassionate patient care, Dr. Mariam Mafee discusses the intricacies of Mohs surgery, including post-surgery care, preparation for surgery, and why it is such a highly effective procedure in treating skin cancer. The discussion emphasizes the importance of patient education, the high success rates of Mohs surgery, and the need for awareness regarding skin health. Dr. Mafee also shares practical advice for patients, including the use of sunscreen, how long to wait to do a peel after surgery, and what other measures to take to protect your skin.

Whether you're a healthcare professional, someone facing a skin cancer diagnosis, or simply want to better protect your skin, this episode offers valuable insights that could save lives.

Get ready for an empowering discussion about women’s health, regenerative aesthetics, and building confidence from the inside out!

In this episode, hosts Metaxia Dalikas and Francine Kagarakis are joined by the incredible Dr. Chantal Lunderville, a physician trained at UCLA and UCSF and Lipgloss & Aftershave Medical + Wellness Editor, who’s redefining aging with a bold, holistic approach to esthetics and wellness. Hear from Dr. C, founder of her own esthetic practice and host of the podcast “Spilling the Medical Tea”, as she shares insights on the connection between skin, hormones, and overall health.

Plus, we’ll explore how spas are evolving into vital bridges between physicians and clients, and discuss the importance of combining traditional and holistic approaches to achieve true beauty and wellness.

Don’t miss this conversation packed with invaluable advice and expertise!

In the second part of Understanding Cosmetic Chemistry of A SkinDepth Convo, Metaxia and Francine are joined once again by cosmetic chemist, Dr. Gabriella Baki, to breakdown the science behind one of the most essential skincare products: sunscreen. From understanding how SPF is formulated to exploring its critical importance for ALL Fitzpatrick skin types, this conversation dives deep into the science behind shielding your skin.

We’ll explore the link between melanin and SPF, clear up common myths, and discuss why skin cancer rates are rising—even among those who think they don’t need sunscreen.

This episode will help you rethink your approach to sun protection.

Get ready for Part One of a special two-part episode of A SkinDepth Convo!

Part one dives into one of the most essential yet overlooked aspects of skincare science: Emulsions. Then, in part two, we’ll explore the chemistry behind sunscreen and SPFs.

Joining Metaxia and Francine is a true expert in cosmetic science, Dr. Gabriella Baki. She’s an associate professor at the University of Toledo’s College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Program Director of its groundbreaking Cosmetic Science and Formulation Design major. Dr. Baki teaches both undergraduate and online master’s students while leading research in topical ingredient delivery, sun protection, and the sensory experience of skincare products.

Don’t miss this deep-dive into the science behind the products we use every day!

On this episode of A SkinDepth Convo, we’re talking confidence, growth, and making 50 look fierce. Metaxia and Francine welcome the brilliant Kimyatta Albert, who’s celebrating her milestone birthday not just with a “50 and fabulous” party, but with an unwavering sense of purpose.

Kimyatta, a renowned esthetician, mindset coach, and business mentor, dives into what it means to hit life’s big milestones with style and strength. She’ll reveal how to harness your inner resilience, radiate confidence, and build a life that aligns with your true purpose.

Tune in for a powerful conversation about glowing from the inside out and thriving at every stage of life.

Get ready to glow from head to toe! On this episode of A SkinDepth Convo, Metaxia and Francine tackle body confidence beyond your face. Skincare isn’t just about your face—we’re talking self-care rituals, head-to-toe skin love, and the hottest trends in 2025. Tune in for tips, innovations, and all the inspiration to feel confident in your skin!