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Description
In this joyous episode of the Skincredible podcast, Dr. Lisa Swanson sits down with Brielle and her parents, Randi and Mark, to share their family's journey with childhood vitiligo. Diagnosed at just two years old, Brielle has grown into a confident, funny, and resilient young girl who proudly says, "It's beautiful," when asked about her skin.
Together, they discuss the emotional roller coaster of receiving a diagnosis, navigating misinformation, finding the right medical team, and balancing treatment with unconditional self-acceptance. Randi and Mark share the challenges of making treatment decisions for a young child while empowering Brielle to love herself every step of the way, including gifting her teachers a vitiligo book at the start of every school year to read with the class.
You'll also hear about the life-changing impact of Camp Victory, the importance of representation through dolls, books, and role models like Winnie Harlow, and the everyday moments that have helped Brielle build confidence. She has learned to answer other people's questions about her skin, how to take charge of her own treatment routine, and even how to be mindful about her own curiosity when seeing children who look or act differently than she's used to.
If you're a parent of a child with vitiligo, someone living with a skin condition, or simply looking for an inspiring conversation about resilience, community, and embracing what makes us unique, this episode is full of wisdom, honesty, and hope.
This conversation is a powerful reminder that confidence doesn't come from skin that is perceived as "perfect." It comes from feeling loved, supported, and empowered to be exactly who you are.
Keywords
Dermatology, Oral Steroids, Topical Corticosteroids, Tacrolimus, Pimecrolimus, Opzelura, Vitiligo, Light Therapy, Sunlight, TSW, Excimer, Narrowband Light, Heliocare, Pulsed Dose Steroids, Oral JAK Inhibitors, Depigmentation, Hypopigmentation, Xeljanz, Koebner phenomenon, confetti depigmentation, Rinvoq, Litfulo, Povorcitinib, Camp Victory
Links, Attachments
Global Vitiligo Foundation’s Camp Victory: https://globalvitiligofoundation.org/camp-victory/
Book Mentioned by Brielle’s Parents on Amazon (NOT affiliated): https://www.amazon.com/dp/0063119978?lv=shuf&channelId=500&plpRedirect=mhFallback
Chapters
00:00 A Special Message For NPs and PAs
02:19 Intro and Welcome to Brielle
04:10 “I’m Famous at My School”
05:00 Brielle’s Diagnosis and Starting to Treat Vitiligo
08:00 Winnie Harlow & Michael Jackson Affected by Vitiligo
09:36 Parents Empowering Their Children, Positive Energy
11:00 Brielle’s First Memory of Vitiligo
12:40 Friends as Advocates, New Environments
14:06 Representation of Vitiligo in Dolls and Toys
16:00 Undue Stress Due to Misinformation
19:00 Importance of Experience in Conditions in Trusting Practitioners
21:00 Seeking a Second Opinion
22:45 Camp Victory: A Skin Party
29:30 Spicy Pickles
31:00 Balancing Treatments, Confidence & Side Effects
37:00 Advice for Taking Pills, Heliocare
41:00 Blood Draws
43:00 Parental Words of Wisdom & Advice for Other Parents
46:30 Curiosity and Other People’s Comments
48:00 Thank you and Goodbye
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The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always consult your physician regarding your health.
In this episode of Skincredible, we discuss how vitiligo care has changed dramatically in just the past few years. Now, there are treatments available to help restore pigment and offer real hope to patients and families, whereas in past years treatments were extremely limited.
Dr. Lisa Swanson takes a deep dive into everything you need to know about modern vitiligotreatment. She discusses that it is perfectly okay to embrace and observe vitiligo if that's what the patient would like, why early treatment is so important if patients do decide to treat, and what realistic expectations look like throughout the repigmentation journey.
Topics include:
Dr. Swanson also shares a powerful patient story that highlight just how life-changing successful vitiligo treatment can be. If you, your child or someone you love is dealing with vitiligo, there is HOPE! If you're a healthcare provider looking to better support your patients, this episode offers the latest evidence-based information, practical guidance, and a hopeful look at the future of vitiligo care.
Additional Links
Panp360.org/boston use code “SKINCREDIBLE” for free registration
Keywords
Dermatology, Marginal Repigmentation, Perifollicular Repigmentation, Difuse Repigmentation, Combined Repigmentation, Topical Corticosteroids, Tacrolimus, Pimecrolimus, Opzelura, Vitiligo, Light Therapy, Sunlight, TSW, Excimer, Narrowband Light, Heliocare, Pulsed Dose Steriods, Oral JAK Inhibitors, Surgery, Depigmentation, Xeljanz, Koebner phenomenon, confetti depigmentation, trichrome pattern depigmentation, Rinvoq, Litfulo, Povorcitinib, Vitiligo Surgery, Skin Graft, Suction Blister Grafting, Punch Biopsy Grafting, Split Thickness Skin Graft, Marginal depigmentation, Segmental vitiligo, non segmental vitiligo, Monobenzyl ether of hydroquinone (MBEH), monobenzone
Chapters
00:00 Special PANP360 Meeting Announcement for NPs and PAs
02:05 Welcome, Vitiligo Treatments
03:50 Our Differences Make Us Special, Life Lessons
06:30 JUMP Shoutout Boise, Idaho
07:00 To Watch or Treat Vitiligo
08:30 Repigmentation Signals to Look For
10:00 Topical Steroids
12:30 Topical Steroid Withdrawal TSW
15:40 Topical Calcineurin Inhibitors: Tacrolimus, Pimecrolimus
18:40 Topical Opzelura
21:40 Mom With Vitiligo: You Gave Me My Face & Life Back
24:30 Light Therapy & Heliocare
26:30 Vitiligo and Decreased Risk of Skin Cancer
27:00 PUVA In the Past
28:00 Light Therapy
30:00 Narrowband, Excimer and Home Light Therapy
32:00 Oral Pulsed Dose Steroids
34:18 Oral JAK Inhibitors
35:00 Coming Soon: Rinvoq, Litfulo, Povorcitinib
36:00 Biologics Coming Soon
37:15: Surgery
40:00 Segmental vs. Non Segmental Vitiligo
41:00 Tacrolimus for Maintenance
42:00 Never Lose Hope
43:00 Depigmentation, Michael Jackson
44:00 Monobenzyl ether of hydroquinone (MBEH)
45:00 Accept Each Other, It’s Not Your Fault
46:12 Thank You & Goodbye
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The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always consult your physician regarding your health.
Vitiligo is far more common than many people realize, yet it's often misunderstood. In this episode of the Skincredible Podcast, Dr. Lisa Swanson breaks down the science behind vitiligo in a way that's easy to understand. We’ll discuss types of vitiligo, how dermatologists diagnose it and why early evaluation matters.
In this episode, you will learn how vitiligo differs from other causes of light patches on the skin (including pityriasis alba and tinea versicolor) and discover the differences between segmental and non-segmental vitiligo. Dr. Swanson also explains the autoimmune process behind pigment loss, genetic risk, and the connection between vitiligo and other autoimmune conditions.
The conversation also explores the emotional and social impact of living with vitiligo, addressing common misconceptions, cultural stigma, and why vitiligo should never be considered "just cosmetic." Finally, Dr. Swanson shares which factors can influence prognosis and offers reassurance that treatment has advanced dramatically in recent years.
This episode lays the foundation for next week's deep dive into vitiligo treatments—and why there's more reason for hope than ever before!
In this episode, you'll learn:
Keywords
Vitiligo, Pityriasis alba, Tinea Versicolor, Depigmented Skin, Hypopigmented Skin, Skin, Dermatology, Pigment Loss, Segmental Vitiligo, Non-Segmental Vitiligo, Michael Jackson
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The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always consult your physician regarding your health.
Are hair growth supplements (referred to as “nutraceuticals” or “trichoceuticals” in this episode) worth the investment? Which ingredients have science behind them, and what do they actually cost?
In this episode of Skincredible, Dr. Lisa Swanson sits down with board-certified dermatologist and dermatopathologist Dr. Amy Spizuoco to unpack the rapidly growing world of hair-loss nutraceuticals. Together, they discuss ingredients in popular products like Nutrafol, Viviscal, Wellbel, and Xtressé. They also discuss the rise and fall of biotin supplementation, and explain how ingredients like saw palmetto, ashwagandha, pumpkin seed extract, and NAD+ may support hair growth.
In this episode, Dr. Swanson and Dr. Spizuoco also explore common causes of hair shedding, including: telogen effluvium, postpartum hair loss, and GLP-1-related hair changes, and discuss practical strategies for supporting hair health during stressful life events. Dr. Spizuoco shares how she incorporates supplements alongside treatments such as oral minoxidil, compounded topical therapies, low-level laser devices, and platelet-rich plasma (PRP).
Plus, stay tuned for a fun rapid-fire round covering New York City life, coffee habits, flying preferences, astronaut dreams, and whether life in Manhattan is really as glamorous as it looks on TV.
In this episode, you'll learn:
• Why dermatologists have become more cautious about biotin supplementation
• The differences between Nutrafol, Viviscal, Wellbel, and Xtressé
• Which supplement ingredients have the strongest evidence for hair growth
• How GLP-1 medications can impact hair health
• What PRP treatments involve and who may benefit from them
• How dermatologists approach androgenetic alopecia and telogen effluvium
Whether you're experiencing hair thinning yourself or simply curious about the latest advances in hair vitamins, this episode delivers practical, evidence-based insights from two highly knowledgeable and board-certified dermatologists.
Keywords
Dermatology, hair loss, alopecia, alopecia totalis, alopecia universalis, alopecia areata, telogen effluvium, hair, skin, nutrafol, viviscal, wellbel, xtresse, vitamins, hair vitamins, glp-1, peptides, prp, platelet rich plasma, vegamour, pumpkin seed, NAD+, ashwagandha, saw palmetto
Links, Attachments
Dr. Spizuoco’s conference: https://dermvipsummit.com/
Dr. Spizuoco’s biography: https://true-dermatology.com/about/meet-dr-spizuoco
Nutrafol: https://nutrafol.com/
Viviscal: https://www.viviscal.com
Wellbel: https://wellbel.com/
Xtressé: https://xtresse.com
Vegamour: https://vegamour.com/
Chapters
00:00 Intro & Welcome Dr. Amy Spizuoco
02:00 DermVIP Summit
03:46 Biotin In the Past
07:03 Any Tricks to Try to “Prevent” Telogen Effluvium
08:48 Four Products With the Most Science
10:33 AminoMar, Marine Complex
11:06 Saw Palmetto
13:33 Mechanism of Action
15:25 Pricing
16:44 Side Effects
18:09 Monotherapy vs. Multiple Modalities
19:40 Full Court Press Approach
20:34 PRP Platelet Rich Plasma
25:00 Exosomes
28:00 Rapid Fire
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The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always consult your physician regarding your health.
This week on Skincredible, Dr. Lisa Swanson sits down with Dr. Michelle Tarbox for a deep dive into hair loss that goes way beyond “is it falling out?” Dr. Tarbox is associate professor of dermatology and dermatopathology at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center and co-host of the Dermasphere Podcast! Fun fact-- her identical twin sister is an opera singer performing across Europe.
They start with diagnosis: why pattern is the first and most important clue, how a “swarm of bees” attacking follicular melanocytes causes hair shafts to thin and narrow over time in alopecia areata, and the key question that separates telogen effluvium from androgenetic alopecia — are you seeing, feeling, or catching hair coming out, or just noticing it’s thinner over time?
From there, a thorough look at GLP-1 related hair loss: why it happens, the emerging retatrutide (which targets both GLP-1 and GIP), the dysmorphia concerns around extreme weight loss, and Dr. Tarbox’s reminder that patients should always tell their doctors what they’re taking because “we don’t judge, we just need to know.” They discuss getting enough protein and the right vitamins to fill nutritional holes, and why hair loss can act as a canary in the mine for patients hoping to stay on their GLP-1.
On the OTC and device front: which supplement has the best data and price point (Viviscal, reviewed in an article on Dermasphere), a rundown of red light therapy devices (the Hairmax laser comb, iRestore vs. Revlon Red, why Theradome isn’t recommended, and capless options that need a power supply), and the science of why red light works — it’s attracted to copper ions, kickstarts senescent cells, decreases DHT, and improves blood flow. They also cover scalp massage, fingers vs. the “Comfier” device from Amazon, and a fair worry about head fires.
The conversation moves into JAK inhibitors as a game-changer for alopecia areata, the frustrating reality of insurance companies labeling it “cosmetic” despite the real burden it places on patients, and how hair loss is portrayed in media. They get into scalp micropigmentation (“drug tattooing”) — including the epinephrine science behind it, what a typical treatment series costs and involves (three treatments back-to-back, paired with oral or light-based support), and how Dr. Tarbox chooses between anti-androgens like spironolactone and finasteride depending on the patient.
Dr. Tarbox’s PSA for anyone googling hair loss: those miracle-growth ads aren’t real (cue a tangent about the cult movie The Peanut Butter Solution) — get diagnosed and come in early, because it’s far easier to maintain hair than regrow it.
Plus, a rapid-fire round: paper vs. digital calendars, guilty-pleasure reality TV, lottery dreams, ideal dinner time, and — naturally, given the Texas Tech connection — predictions on when Taylor and Travis are finally tying the knot.
Keywords
Dermatology, Alopecia, Alopecia Areata, JAK Inhibitors, Hair Loss, GLP-1, Peptides, Anti Androgens, Dutasteride, Finasteride, Spironolactone, Minoxidil, Rogaine, The Peanut Butter Solution, Scalp Massage, Red Light Therapy, Vitamins, Nutraceuticals, Viviscal, Nutrafol, Opera, Travis Kelce, Taylor Swift
Links, Attachments
More about Dr. Tarbox: https://providers.texastechphysicians.com/provider/michelle-tarbox/2676236
Dermasphere Podcast:
https://www.dermaspherepodcast.com/
Chapters
00:00 Intro and Welcome Dr. Michelle Tarbox
02:35 Alopecia Clinical Observations
06:29 How Important is Time in Alopecia?
08:38 GLP-1 Related Hair Loss
14:38 GLP-1 Related Body Dysmorphia
16:32 For Patients Experiencing GLP-1 Hair Loss
18:50 Over the Counter Recommendations
21:18 Red Light Therapy
24:17 Science of Red Light
25:39 Dermal Stretching & Hair Growth
29:23 Alopecia Areata & JAK Inhibitors
32:30 The Lost Years with Alopecia Areata
33:20 Insurance Calling Alopecia
34:45 What Dr. Tarbox Wishes Patients Knew About Alopecia
36:50 False Ads for Vitamins That Do Not Work
39:00 Drug Tattooing
44:40 Anti Androgen Therapies
48:30 Rapid Fire Questions
53:26 Like/Subscribe/Follow, Thanks & Goodbye
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The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always consult your physician regarding your health.
In this special behind-the-scenes episode of the Skincredible Podcast, Dr. Lisa Swanson welcomes her two medical assistants, Olivia and Anna, for a candid conversation about life in pediatric dermatology. They share how they found their way into dermatology, what they love most about working with children and families, and the rewarding experience of watching young patients gain confidence as their skin conditions improve.
The team discusses common misconceptions about pediatric skin conditions, including eczema, molluscum, warts, and birthmarks, while offering reassurance and practical insights for parents navigating these challenges. They also reflect on the emotional side of caring for children, the importance of building trust with families, and the unique joys (and occasional challenges) of pediatric dermatology.
To wrap up the episode, Olivia and Anna put their knowledge of Dr. Swanson to the test in a fun game of “How Well Do You Know Dr. Swanson?”, featuring questions about Bluey, coffee orders, favorite animals, reality TV, and more. Filled with laughter, heartfelt stories, and plenty of pediatric dermatology wisdom, this episode offers listeners a fun and personal look at the team behind the clinic.
Keywords
Dermatology, Medical Assistant, Skin, Patients, Patient Care, Pediatric, Medical Care, Medical Team, Dermatology Practice, Warts, Bluey, Dr. Pimple Popper, Dr. Sandra Lee, Cystic Acne, Medical Care, Healthcare, Healthcare Careers
Links, Attachments
Image Source For Sperm Whales: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/photography/article/sperm-whales-nap-sleeping-photography-spd
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@weareskincredible
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/skincrediblepod
X: https://x.com/Skincrediblepod
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/skincrediblepod/
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/skincrediblepod/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5OPa1pfmGldcQGs8IE7nFb
Podcast website: https://skincredible.buzzsprout.com
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/skincredible/id1866567434
Chapters
00:00 Intro & Welcome: Olivia & Anna
01:55 How Olivia & Anna Ended Up In Dermatology
02:56 A Message to Olivia From Dr. Pimple Popper
05:30 Dr. Swanson’s Trivia Tradition During Talks
07:30 Female Dermatologists & Eldest Daughters
08:50 Favorite Parts of Pediatric Dermatology
12:25 The Team You Work With Matters
14:30 Helping Kids Feel Comfortable in Clinic
16:00 Buzzy Between the Brain and the Pain
17:00 We Believe in Bees, But They Do Sting
19:30 Least Favorite Parts of Pediatric Dermatology
25:00 Differences Make Us Special
27:20 If You Could Tell Parents ONE Thing
34:00 How Well Do You Know Dr. Swanson
35:28 Dr. Swanson’s Favorite Bluey Character
36:25 Dr. Swanson’s Favorite Starbucks Drink
37:40 Dr. Swanson’s Current OTC Favorite Ingredient
38:45 Dr. Swanson’s Dog’s Names
39:15 Dr. Swanson’s Favorite Wart Treatment
40:35 Dr. Swanson’s Favorite Ocean Animal
41:55 Dr. Swanson’s Favorite Land Animal
43:04: Dr. Swanson’s Daily Lunch
43:44 Dr. Swanson’s Boy Biopsy Requirement
45:00 Dr. Swanson’s Favorite Reality TV Show
47:30 Dr. Swanson’s Frustration Indicator
49:10 Dr. Swanson’s Favorite Bluey Episode
51:00 Appreciation and Goodbye
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The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always consult your physician regarding your health.
Description
In this moving episode of the Skincredible Podcast, Dr. Lisa Swanson sits down with Steve and Katy to share their daughter Stephanie’s journey with alopecia areata. They chat about what it was like to notice the first unexpected bald spot at age two, about navigating treatments, fears, setbacks, and ultimately finding hope.
These parents open up about the emotional toll of watching their child lose her hair, the uncertainty that comes with an autoimmune diagnosis, and the difficult decisions involved in starting advanced treatments like JAK inhibitors at such a young age. Along the way, they discuss the realities of parenting through chronic illness, the anxiety fueled by internet misinformation, and the importance of finding trusted medical guidance.
Most importantly, this episode highlights Stephanie herself. She is a resilient, joyful little girl whose confidence and strength remind us all that we are so much more than our appearance.
This conversation offers encouragement, practical insight, and reassurance for families facing alopecia areata or any chronic childhood condition. There’s emotional vulnerability and hopeful breakthroughs, hopefully helping others who are struggling feel less alone in their own journey.
Topics include:
Keywords
Dermatology, Hair Loss, Alopecia, Alopecia Areata, Alopecia Totalis, Alopecia Universalis, Diffuse Alopecia, Loose Anagen Alopecia, Traction Alopecia, Hair, Skin, Skin Expert, Dermatologist, JAK inhibitors, Minoxidil, Oral Minoxidil, Allegra, Pulse Prednisone, Prednisone, Olumiant
Links, Attachments
NAAF: https://www.naaf.org
Chapters
00:00 Intro & Welcome
00:44 Discovering Stephanie’s Alopecia Areata
03:00 Initial Reactions and Treatment Options
04:26 Three Potential Alopecia Areata Courses
06:00 Prednisone, Topicals, Oral Minoxidil, Vit D, Allegra
07:00 Discussing JAK Inhibitors: Olumiant
11:30 Stephanie Starts Olumiant
14:14 The Emotional Process of Alopecia
16:30 Stephanie’s Tips on Swallowing Pills
19:00 Stephanie Gets a Haircut
20:45 Parents’ Experience As Hair Grew Back
26:00 Set Backs During Therapy
31:00 Uncertainty, Off Label Use of Medication
33:30 Combating Online Misinformation
34:45 Advice From Parent to Parent
40:45 Writing Your Concerns Down
42:30 Stephanie’s Advice For Other Kids
43:40 Thank You & Goodbye
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The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always consult your physician regarding your health.
You may be wondering, “what are the best treatments for alopecia areata? Can hair grow back after alopecia areata? Are JAK inhibitors safe?” In this episode of the Skincredible Podcast, Dr. Lisa Swanson takes a comprehensive look at the latest alopecia areata treatments, from traditional therapies to cutting-edge medications that are truly changing lives in a world where treatments used to be very limited.
This episode will help you stay up-to-date on treatments available as of May of 2026 for Alopecia Areata and it will also help you discover why early intervention has shown to lead to better results. Dr. Swanson reviews the most effective treatment options for both children and adults, including observation, topical therapies like Minoxidil and Clobetasol, intralesional steroids, vitamin D, Allegra, Dupixent, pulse Prednisone, low dose oral Minoxidil, contact sensitizers such as Dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB), Squaric Acid, Diphencyprone (DPCP), and JAK inhibitors.
The episode also explores in detail the exciting new era of JAK inhibitors for alopecia areata, including Olumiant (baricitinib), Litfulo (ritlecitinib), Leqselvi (deuruxolitinib), and the upcoming approval of Rinvoq (upadacitinib). Dr. Swanson explains how these medications work, who may be a candidate, who may not be, required blood work and monitoring, common side effects, safety considerations, insurance challenges, and what patients can realistically expect when it comes to hair regrowth in general.
You'll also hear Dr. Swanson’s valuable insights on popular hair loss remedies frequently discussed online, including rosemary oil, garlic, essential oils, capsaicin, PRP (platelet-rich plasma), red light therapy, laser therapy, cryotherapy, and PUVA treatment.
Whether you're living with alopecia areata, caring for a child with hair loss, or a healthcare professional looking to stay current on the latest advances, this episode provides practical guidance, expert insights, and hope for patients navigating autoimmune hair loss.
Keywords
Dermatology, Hair Loss, Alopecia, Alopecia Areata, Alopecia Totalis, Alopecia Universalis, Diffuse Alopecia, Loose Anagen Alopecia, Traction Alopecia, Hair, Skin, Skin Expert, Dermatologist, JAK Inhibitors, Olumiant, Litfulo, Leqselvi, Rinvoq, Minoxidil, Hair Regrowth, Autoimmune Disease, Alopecia Totalis, Alopecia Universalis, Dupixent, Vitamin D, Allegra, Contact Sensitizers, Dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB), Squaric Acid, Diphencyprone (DPCP),
Links, Attachments
NAAF: https://www.naaf.org
Find a Pediatric Dermatologist near you: https://pedsderm.net/for-patients-families/find-a-pediatric-dermatologist/
Find an Adult Dermatologist near you: https://find-a-derm.aad.org/
Chapters
00:00 Welcome, A Side Note About Breast MRIs
04:25 Alopecia Areata Treatments
04:52 Observation, Especially in Pediatric Patients
05:39 Topical Steroids at Bedtime and Topical Minoxidil in Morning
09:00 Kids Do Better On Treatments
10:07 Follow Up and Expectations From Treatment
11:30 Intralesional Steroids
13:40 AAD or Society for Pediatric Dermatology Lookup
14:50 Vitamin D and Allegra Over The Counter
17:00 Dupixent
20:00 Pulse Prednisone
21:05 Oral Minoxidil
23:15 Safety Label on Minoxidil
24:30 Contact Sensitizers
27:00 JAK Inhibitors & Alopecia Discovery
30:00 Quality of Life Improvement with Treatment
31:20 Olumiant
33:05 Litfulo
36:15 Leqselvi
37:00 Labs Checked With JAK Inhibitors
39:00 Safety Warnings
40:40 The 4 Cs
44:00 Coming Soon: Rinvoq
46:50 The Importance of JAK Inhibitors & Early Intervention
51:30 Natural Remidies and Social Media Trends
53:30 Excimer Laser & PUVA
55:00 Red Light
56:00 Conclusion
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The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always consult your physician regarding your health.
In this episode of the Skincredible Podcast, Dr. Lisa Swanson and Ana dive into the world of alopecia areata — an autoimmune condition that causes hair loss and affects both children and adults. From patchy scalp hair loss to loss of eyebrows, eyelashes, and even body hair, Dr. Swanson breaks down the many ways alopecia can present and why it’s so much more than a “cosmetic” condition.
Dr. Swanson explains the science behind alopecia areata, including how the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, the connection to stress and other autoimmune diseases, and the differences between alopecia areata, alopecia totals, alopecia universalis, telogen effluvium, traction alopecia, and loose anagen syndrome. They also discuss why hair plays such an important role in identity, confidence, and emotional well-being — especially for kids.
You’ll hear practical guidance on what people should know, common misconceptions, when blood work is helpful, and why internet searches can sometimes create unnecessary fear. Most importantly, this episode offers hope: today’s treatment options for alopecia areata are more effective than ever before.
Whether you’re personally affected by hair loss, supporting a loved one, or simply curious about the science of hair and skin, this compassionate and informative conversation is packed with insight.
Plus — stay tuned for the next episode, where Dr. Swanson dives deep into the newest treatments changing the future of alopecia care.
Keywords
Dermatology, Hair Loss, Alopecia, Alopecia Areata, Alopecia Totalis, Alopecia Universalis, Diffuse Alopecia, Loose Anagen Alopecia, Traction Alopecia, Hair, Skin, Skin Expert, Dermatologist
Links, Attachments
National Alopecia Areata Foundation (NAAF): https://www.naaf.org
Chapters
00:00 Intro & Welcome
01:00 Alopecia Areata
02:48 Autoimmune conditions
05:16 How Alopecia Areata Presents
06:53 Diffuse Alopecia, Telogen Effluvium
12:50 Treatment Options Are More Abundant Now
13:40 Resolution vs. Treatment or Progression
15:50 Eyebrow Loss
16:55 Alopecia Areata Is NOT Cosmetic
18:25 Barbie & American Girl With Alopecia
20:15 Sudden Hair Loss, Ringworm (Tinea Capitis)
22:02 Joy From Treatment
24:25 Traction Alopecia
26:00 Disney Princess For A Day
27:13 Loose Anagen
30:15 Alopecia Recap
31:00 Thank You & Goodbye
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The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always consult your physician regarding your health.
In this episode of Skincredible, Dr. Swanson and Ana dive deep into one of the most important — and most misunderstood — topics in skincare: sun protection. May is Skin Cancer Awareness month, so what a better time to explore options for protection! From sunscreen myths and tanning bed dangers to mineral vs. chemical sunscreens, SPF confusion, vitamin D debates, and even viral social media trends, this episode breaks down what’s fact, what’s fiction, and what actually protects your skin.
Dr. Swanson explains how UV exposure can cause skin cancer, why childhood sun exposure matters so much, and how sun damage contributes to wrinkles, brown spots, and premature aging. The conversation covers sunscreen ingredients, favorite dermatologist-approved products, protective clothing, hats, sunglasses, spray tans, Heliocare supplements, and practical ways to enjoy the outdoors while still protecting your skin.Plus: funny vacation sunburn stories, risks of contracting viruses with tanning bed use, the return campaign for COTZ Silky Foam sunscreen, a discussion about Australia’s impressive sun safety culture, and why every parent should watch the Bluey episode “The Pool.”Whether you’re a sunscreen skeptic, skincare enthusiast, outdoor adventurer, or parent trying to protect your kids, this episode is packed with practical advice, science-backed information that feels conversational and easy to apply (no sunscreen pun intended). Topics Covered:Additional links or resources
Trucker Article Reference
Fortification of Foods with Vitamin D Article I; Article II
Swim Zip
AAD Shade Structure Grant
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Sun Protection
00:44 Personal Dermatology Stories
02:00 Understanding Sun Damage
04:00 Sunscreen Types and Controversies
11:44 Importance of SPF
16:14 Preventing Wrinkles, Sun Spots
17:22 Importance of Vitamin D
19:40 Products with Added Vitamin D
10:45 Tanning Beds
24:20 Tanning Addictions
25:00 Herpes and Genital Warts Via Tanning
28:22 Other Ways to Protect : Hats
33:22 Other Ways to Protect : SPF Clothing
37:00 Other Ways to Protect : Sunglasses
40:00 Paramedian Forehead Flap
42:00 Sun In Australia
43:15 AAD Shade Structure Grant
43:45 Bluey The Pool
45:30 Social Media Whispers: Anal Sunning
47:50 Social Media Whispers: Hormone Disruption
48:20 Social Media Whispers: Sunblocks VS. Sunscreen
48:20 Social Media Whispers: Inflammation In the Skin
50:30 Heliocare
53:20 Social Media Whispers: Homemade Sunscreen
54:00 Social Media Whispers: Coral Reef
55:56 Humans Benefit From the Outdoors
57:26 Conclusion
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The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always consult your physician regarding your health.
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Skin education for ALL! A board-certified pediatric dermatologist (skin doctor) combats social media misinformation for YOU. Informative, fun, and clear episodes that debunk myths, explain…
Dr. Lisa Swanson is a board-certified dermatologist and pediatric dermatologist. After going to college at the University of Colorado at Boulder, she obtained her medical degree from Tulane University School of Medicine in New Orleans. She performed her dermatology residency at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota.
After that, she completed a fellowship in Pediatric Dermatology at Phoenix Children’s Hospital in Arizona.
She was in private practice in Colorado for a decade and then moved to Boise, Idaho in summer 2020 to become the first and only pediatric dermatologist in the state of Idaho. She is active in local and national medical societies and organizations. She loves lecturing at conferences discussing pediatric dermatology with audiences across the country. Since moving to Idaho, she works in private practice at Ada West Dermatology and she is also on staff at St Luke’s Children’s Hospital.
In her spare time, she enjoys binge watching television shows with her boyfriend Larry and cuddling with her 2 doggies Mosby and Maggie.