For our Season Finale, I'm joined by Katie Marshall, creator of the MBK Acne Detective course for estheticians. In this conversation, we dive into holistic acne management, investigative approaches to stubborn acne cases, and the importance of looking beyond the surface when supporting acne clients.

Join us as we discuss education, critical thinking, and empowering estheticians to become true acne detectives in their treatment rooms.

Take advantage of the special pricing for the MBK Acne Detective Course Here:

https://www.mebykatie.com/mbk-acne-detective-professional-estheticians-course

And get your: The Holistic Acne Business Checklist (free guide)

https://www.mebykatie.com/business-checklist

You can find Katie on Instagram @mebykatie

For Real Skin Pro Education Cheat Sheets: 

FREE Acne Assessment Cheat Sheet: 

https://www.realskinpro.com/coming-soon-02

FREE Skin Barrier Cheat Sheet: 

https://www.realskinpro.com/registration

See you in a few weeks with fresh episodes of the Real Skin Pro Education Podcast!

Real Skin Pro Education is dedicated to helping estheticians think differently, treat skin intentionally, and create real, lasting results.

Follow along for more advanced skin education and insights.

Instagram: @real_skinpro

Before the science, the treatments, and the education, there was a journey.

In this special solo episode, I'm stepping away from the textbooks and sharing the story behind Real Skin Pro Education. I talk about how I got started in esthetics, the experiences that shaped my career, the challenges I faced, and why I became so passionate about raising the standard of education in our industry.

If you've ever wondered why I'm so passionate about evidence-based skincare, honest conversations, and helping estheticians grow with confidence, this episode is for you.

Whether you're a new esthetician, a seasoned professional, or someone who simply loves skincare, I hope this episode reminds you that every expert has a story... and sometimes the hardest seasons become the reason we can help others.

Thanks for being here and for being part of this journey.

@real_skinpro

[email protected]

Real Skin Pro Education is dedicated to helping estheticians think differently, treat skin intentionally, and create real, lasting results.

Follow along for more advanced skin education and insights.

Instagram: @real_skinpro

Ep 11: The Holistic Acne Management Framework | A Science-Based Roadmap to Healthier Skin

Acne management isn't about finding one miracle product. It's about creating a plan.

In this episode of Real Skin Pro Education, we're bringing together everything we've discussed throughout our Acne Awareness Month series and introducing a holistic, science-based framework for managing acne.

You'll learn why successful acne management goes beyond cleansers and spot treatments, and how home care, professional treatments, skin barrier health, nutrition, stress, sleep, hormones, and realistic expectations all play a role in achieving healthier skin.

We'll also discuss how to build an effective acne routine, the best ingredients for different acne concerns, treatment room modalities that support acne-prone skin, and why consistency is one of the most overlooked components of successful acne management.

Whether you're an esthetician, skincare professional, or someone navigating your own acne journey, this episode will help you move away from chasing quick fixes and toward a long-term strategy rooted in skin science.

In This Episode:

• The five pillars of holistic acne management
• Building an effective home care routine
• Professional acne treatments and treatment room modalities
• Why skin barrier health matters
• The role of nutrition, sleep, stress, and hormones
• The best skincare ingredients for acne-prone skin
• LED therapy, chemical peels, enzyme therapy, and extractions
• Setting realistic expectations for acne improvement
• Creating a personalized acne management plan

Key Takeaway:

Healthy skin isn't built by attacking acne. It's built by understanding how the skin functions and creating an environment where it can heal, recover, and thrive.

Connect with Lisa:

Instagram: @real_skinpro

[email protected]

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow skincare professional or someone struggling with acne.

Real Skin Pro Education is dedicated to helping estheticians think differently, treat skin intentionally, and create real, lasting results.

Follow along for more advanced skin education and insights.

Instagram: @real_skinpro

Ep 10: Acne Scars, Acne Marks & Hyperpigmentation | Treatment Room Solutions, Modalities & Realistic Results

Do you actually have acne scars... or are they acne marks?

Many people assume every mark left behind after a breakout is a scar, but that's one of the biggest misconceptions in skincare. In this episode of Real Skin Pro Education, we're breaking down the important differences between post-inflammatory erythema (PIE), post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), and true acne scars, and why correctly identifying each condition is the key to successful treatment.

We'll discuss how acne scars form, why some people develop pigmentation while others develop redness, and which professional skincare treatments, modalities, and ingredients are most appropriate for each concern. You'll also learn when acne scars require referral to a medical provider and why realistic expectations are one of the most important parts of the healing process.

Whether you're an esthetician, skincare professional, or someone recovering from acne, this episode will help you better understand what you're seeing in the mirror and how to create a treatment plan based on skin science instead of guesswork.

In This Episode:

• The difference between acne scars, PIE, and PIH

• Why not every acne mark is permanent

• How inflammation contributes to redness, pigmentation, and scarring

• Ice pick, boxcar, rolling, hypertrophic, and keloid scars explained

• Treatment room modalities including LED therapy, chemical peels, enzyme therapy, microneedling, and nano infusion

• Home care ingredients that support healing, including azelaic acid, retinoids, niacinamide, vitamin C, and ceramides

• Why sunscreen is essential for post-acne healing

• When estheticians should refer clients for advanced scar treatments

• Realistic timelines and expectations for improving acne scars and acne marks

Key Takeaway:

Not every mark left behind by acne is a scar. Understanding whether you're dealing with redness, pigmentation, or structural scarring allows you to choose treatments that are appropriate, effective, and based on the biology of the skin.

Connect with Lisa:

Instagram: @real_skinpro

[email protected]

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow esthetician, skincare professional, or anyone navigating life after acne.

Real Skin Pro Education is dedicated to helping estheticians think differently, treat skin intentionally, and create real, lasting results.

Follow along for more advanced skin education and insights.

Instagram: @real_skinpro

Accutane is one of the most effective and most misunderstood acne treatments available.

In this special bonus episode of Real Skin Pro Education, we're taking a deep dive into isotretinoin, commonly known by its former brand name, Accutane. We'll discuss how this powerful medication works, who it may be appropriate for, what the treatment process looks like, common side effects, and the growing trend of low-dose or "microdosed" Accutane.

You'll learn why isotretinoin is unique among acne treatments, how it targets all four major contributors to acne development, and what clients can realistically expect before, during, and after treatment. We'll also cover the iPLEDGE program, considerations for both male and female patients, and how estheticians can safely support clients undergoing treatment.

Whether you're an esthetician, skincare professional, or someone considering isotretinoin for acne management, this episode will help you better understand the facts behind one of dermatology's most powerful acne treatments.

In This Episode:

• What Accutane (isotretinoin) is and how it works
• Who is a candidate for isotretinoin treatment
• The Accutane treatment process from start to finish
• Understanding the iPLEDGE program
• Why pregnancy prevention is critical during treatment
• How isotretinoin affects male patients
• Expected treatment timelines and outcomes
• Common side effects including dry skin, dry lips, and increased sensitivity
• Less common but important side effects that require monitoring
• The relationship between Accutane and mental health
• The rise of low-dose and microdosed Accutane
• Professional treatment considerations for estheticians
• Barrier-supporting ingredients that may help improve skin comfort during treatment
• How to safely support clients receiving isotretinoin therapy

Key Takeaway:

Accutane isn't a miracle and it isn't a monster. It's a powerful medication that can significantly improve acne for the right candidate when used under proper medical supervision. Understanding the benefits, risks, and realities of treatment allows patients and skincare professionals to make informed decisions and provide appropriate support throughout the process.

Connect with Lisa:

Instagram: @real_skinpro
[email protected]

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow esthetician, skincare professional, or anyone considering Accutane treatment.

Real Skin Pro Education is dedicated to helping estheticians think differently, treat skin intentionally, and create real, lasting results.

Follow along for more advanced skin education and insights.

Instagram: @real_skinpro

Ep 9: Acne Through the Lifespan | Teen, Adult, Hormonal & Menopausal Acne

Acne doesn't look the same at every stage of life, and it shouldn't be treated the same way.

In this episode of Real Skin Pro Education, we're exploring how acne changes throughout the lifespan, from teen acne and adult acne to hormonal acne, perimenopausal acne, and menopausal acne. We'll discuss the unique factors that drive breakouts at different ages, including hormones, oil production, inflammation, skin barrier health, stress, and lifestyle influences.

You'll learn why a teenager with oily, congested skin may require a completely different treatment approach than a woman experiencing hormonal acne in her 40s or menopausal acne in her 50s. We'll also cover the professional treatments, ingredients, and home care strategies that can support healthier skin at every stage of life.

Whether you're an esthetician, skincare professional, or someone struggling with persistent breakouts, this episode will help you better understand the root causes of acne and how to approach treatment based on the individual, not just the blemish.

In This Episode:
• What causes teen acne and the best treatment options
• Why adult acne is often different from adolescent acne
• The role hormones play in acne development
• How perimenopause and menopause can affect the skin
• Common acne patterns and locations by age group
• Professional treatments for acne-prone skin
• The best skincare ingredients for teen, adult, hormonal, and menopausal acne
• Why barrier repair and inflammation management matter
• A holistic approach to acne management throughout life

Key Takeaway:
Acne is not a one-size-fits-all condition. Understanding the unique drivers behind teen acne, adult acne, hormonal acne, and menopausal acne allows for more effective, personalized treatment and better long-term outcomes.

Connect with Lisa:
Instagram: @real_skipro
[email protected]

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow skincare professional or someone navigating acne at any stage of life.

Real Skin Pro Education is dedicated to helping estheticians think differently, treat skin intentionally, and create real, lasting results.

Follow along for more advanced skin education and insights.

Instagram: @real_skinpro

Episode 2: Why Your Acne Treatments Aren't Working

Have you tried countless acne products, followed skincare trends, and spent hundreds of dollars on treatments, only to feel like your acne isn't improving?

In this episode of Real Skin Pro Education, we're uncovering the most common reasons acne treatments fail and why more products don't always equal better results.

You'll learn why product hopping, over-exfoliation, barrier damage, unrealistic expectations, and social media skincare advice may actually be keeping your acne stuck in a cycle of inflammation and frustration. We'll also discuss why successful acne management requires consistency, patience, and understanding the root causes behind breakouts.

Whether you're an esthetician working with acne clients or someone struggling with persistent acne, this episode will help you understand what may be standing in the way of clear, healthy skin.

In This Episode:
• Why acne treatments often take longer than expected to work
• The dangers of product hopping and constantly changing routines
• How over-exfoliation can worsen acne
• Signs of a damaged skin barrier
• Why inflammation is a major contributor to breakouts
• The difference between treating pimples and preventing acne
• Why social media skincare advice isn't always the answer
• How hormones, stress, lifestyle, and other root causes impact acne
• Building an effective acne management strategy

Key Takeaway:
Acne management isn't about finding the strongest product or the latest trend. It's about creating a consistent, evidence-based plan that supports skin health and addresses the factors contributing to breakouts.

Connect with Lisa:
Instagram: @real_skinpro
email: [email protected]

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow skincare professional or acne sufferer.

Real Skin Pro Education is dedicated to helping estheticians think differently, treat skin intentionally, and create real, lasting results.

Follow along for more advanced skin education and insights.

Instagram: @real_skinpro

Acne is one of the most common skin conditions in the world, yet it's also one of the most misunderstood.

In this Acne Awareness Month kickoff episode, we're diving into the science behind acne and exploring what actually causes breakouts in the first place. Contrary to popular belief, acne isn't caused by dirty skin, poor hygiene, or not washing your face enough.

You'll learn about the four key factors involved in acne development, including excess oil production, abnormal skin cell shedding, bacterial imbalance, and inflammation. We'll also break down the different types of acne lesions, discuss common acne myths, and explore why acne can have such a significant impact on confidence and mental health.

Whether you're an esthetician, skincare professional, or someone struggling with breakouts, this episode will give you a stronger understanding of what's happening beneath the surface and why effective acne management starts with education.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• What acne actually is
• The 4 factors that contribute to acne development
• The difference between blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts
• Why acne is not caused by dirty skin
• Common acne myths that need to go away
• Why inflammation plays a major role in breakouts
• How understanding acne leads to better treatment outcomes

Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a fellow skincare enthusiast or skin professional.

Connect with Lisa:
Instagram: @real_skinpro

#AcneAwarenessMonth #AcneEducation #AcneManagement #SkinScience #EstheticianEducation #RealSkinProEducation

Real Skin Pro Education is dedicated to helping estheticians think differently, treat skin intentionally, and create real, lasting results.

Follow along for more advanced skin education and insights.

Instagram: @real_skinpro

The skincare industry is filled with terms that sound scientific, regulated, and authoritative… but what do they actually mean?

In this episode of Real Skin Pro Education, we’re breaking down the differences between OTC skincare, prescription products, professional skincare, and the marketing term “medical-grade.”

We’ll discuss:
• how the FDA categorizes skincare products
• the difference between cosmetic claims and drug claims
• why wording matters in the skincare industry
• what makes a product OTC vs prescription
• what “professional-only” actually means
• why “medical-grade skincare” is not an official FDA-recognized category
• and what truly matters when evaluating skincare products and formulations

This episode is designed to help estheticians think more critically about industry terminology, marketing language, and the way we educate clients.

Because healthy skin outcomes are built through formulation science, barrier support, and evidence-informed care… not just buzzwords.

Instagram: @real_skinpro

Real Skin Pro Education is dedicated to helping estheticians think differently, treat skin intentionally, and create real, lasting results.

Follow along for more advanced skin education and insights.

Instagram: @real_skinpro

Going solo as an esthetician can look beautiful on social media… but what does it actually feel like behind the scenes?

In this episode of Real Skin Pro Education
, Lisa talks honestly about the realities of becoming a solo esthetician: the freedom, the fear, the financial stress, the loneliness, the growth, and the pressure to “look successful” while building a business from the ground up.

This episode dives into:

• The emotional side of solo business ownership
• What truly matters when building a sustainable esthetics business
• Common mistakes new solo estheticians make
• Why aesthetics alone won’t build client trust
• Pricing, burnout, and financial realities
• Building a business that aligns with your philosophy and values

Whether you’re thinking about leaving the spa environment, starting your first suite, or navigating the messy middle of entrepreneurship, this episode is your reminder that you’re not alone in the process.

Because building a solo esthetics business isn’t just about creating a beautiful space.
It’s about creating something sustainable, aligned, and deeply human.

Follow along on Instagram: @real_skinpro

CA LLC Information: https://sdcorporatelaw.com/business-newsletter/may-a-licensed-professional-practice-using-a-california-llc/

Real Skin Pro Education is dedicated to helping estheticians think differently, treat skin intentionally, and create real, lasting results.

Follow along for more advanced skin education and insights.

Instagram: @real_skinpro