*]:pointer-events-auto [content-visibility:auto] supports-[content-visibility:auto]:[contain-intrinsic-size:auto_100lvh] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" style= "font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration: none; caret-color: #000000; color: #000000;" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id="d8e27adf-a50e-43ea-abcc-40eded560fb2" data-testid="conversation-turn-90" data-scroll-anchor="false" data-turn="assistant">

In this special guest episode, Dr. Dustin Portela sits down with entrepreneur and financial educator Braiden Shaw for an eye-opening conversation about a part of wellness most people overlook: financial health. Braiden—known for his viral money content and no-nonsense, practical approach to building wealth—shares his path from college basketball player to multimillionaire investor, and why taking control of your finances is one of the most powerful ways to reduce stress and improve your well-being.

They dig into why financial stress impacts everything from sleep to skin, how to avoid lifestyle creep, the five essential financial accounts everyone should have, and the mindset shifts that separate long-term planners from paycheck-to-paycheck living. They also explore investing basics, retirement misconceptions, the role of Bitcoin, and how small daily habits create both financial stability and healthier living overall.

This episode delivers clarity, motivation, and actionable next steps for anyone looking to strengthen their financial foundation—and their peace of mind.

Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportela YouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDoc YouTube (Educational): @drdustinportela Pinterest: @DrDustinPortela

Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac

Guest: Braiden Shaw Instagram: @braidenshaw TikTok: @braidenshaw YouTube: @braidenshaw

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the world, but with early detection, it's also one of the most treatable. In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee take a deep dive into everything you need to know about skin cancer—from what to look for and who's most at risk to what happens during a skin exam or biopsy.

They explain the key differences between basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, sharing clinical insight and real patient stories that highlight why regular skin checks save lives. You'll learn how to spot suspicious moles using the ABCDE rule, what "ugly duckling" lesions are, and why sunscreen myths are still circulating online. Plus, in this week's "Did You Know?" the hosts discuss the rarest skin cancers, genetic risks, and how mutations like the Sonic Hedgehog gene can even cause cancer in kids.

Whether you're diligent about your SPF or overdue for your first skin check, this episode gives you the knowledge—and motivation—to protect yourself year-round.

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 — Neutrogena Collagen Bank SPF 30 This multitasking daily sunscreen hydrates, protects, and supports collagen production with micro-peptides that help firm and smooth the skin. Lightweight and non-greasy, it's an easy way to get both anti-aging and sun protection in one step. Available at major retailers and linked in the show notes.

In this special guest episode, Dr. Dustin Portela sits down with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michael Christopher to discuss one of dermatology's most powerful diagnostic tools: dermoscopy. Often called "the stethoscope of dermatology," the dermatoscope allows doctors to detect skin cancer earlier and more accurately than ever before.

Dr. Christopher explains how dermoscopy works, why it's not yet standard in every clinic, and what patients should expect during a thorough skin exam. The two also dive into the broader conversation about proactive healthcare—covering topics like optimal screening vs. standard guidelines, full-body imaging, AI-assisted diagnostics, and the changing landscape of melanoma detection.

Whether you're a dermatologist, a medical student, or someone who wants to take your skin health seriously, this episode will leave you seeing skin checks—and your annual exam—in a whole new light.

Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportelaYouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDocYouTube (Educational): @drdustinportelaPinterest: @DrDustinPortela

Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac

Guest: Dr. Michael ChristopherInstagram: @michael.christopher.md Dr. Christopher is a board-certified dermatologist based in Tucson, Arizona, and a leading educator in dermoscopy and skin cancer detection. He serves on the Arizona Melanoma Task Force and is dedicated to advancing early cancer detection through education and technology.

You don't have to work outside to take a hit from your environment. In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee uncover the hidden ways office life can affect your skin—from blue light exposure and recycled air to stress, poor posture, and even those tempting breakroom snacks.

They discuss how blue light can worsen pigmentation, how dry indoor air and heaters dehydrate skin, and why sitting all day can lead to circulation issues that dull your complexion. Plus, they share practical tips for healthier skin at work: using tinted sunscreen to block visible light, hydrating often, taking stretch breaks, managing stress, and even cleaning your phone and headset to avoid breakouts. This week's "Did You Know?" features wild skin trivia about heat exposure and office-induced rashes you've probably never heard of.

Whether you're working from home or back at the desk, this episode helps you build better skin habits where you spend most of your time—at work.

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 A science-backed nighttime drink designed to help you unwind, sleep deeper, and wake up refreshed. Formulated with GABA, L-theanine, tart cherry extract, and magnesium glycinate, this hot cocoa blend supports quality rest without added sugar. Use it to reset your sleep after travel, stress, or late nights—and wake up with skin that shows it.

Individuals can either use code DUSTIN for $10 off their order or click the link below. https://www.switchsupplements.com/DUSTIN

It's one of the most talked-about topics in dermatology—and one of the most misunderstood. In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee explore the fascinating connection between your gut and your skin. They explain how inflammation, diet, and the microbiome influence everything from acne and eczema to psoriasis and overall skin health.

You'll learn how food choices, stress, and even sleep affect your gut's barrier (and, in turn, your skin's barrier), plus why the gut-brain-skin axis matters more than ever. The hosts share practical, science-backed ways to support gut health—from fiber and probiotics to lifestyle adjustments—and debunk myths about "one-size-fits-all" supplements and miracle diets.

This week's "Did You Know?" reveals just how many bacteria call your gut home (hint: way more than your skin has cells) and how they help your body heal itself from the inside out.

Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportelaYouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDocYouTube (Educational): @drdustinportelaPinterest: @DrDustinPortela

Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac

Product of the Week — Pendulum Probiotics A next-generation probiotic clinically formulated to restore balance in the gut microbiome. Featuring live strains like Akkermansia muciniphila, Bifidobacterium, and Clostridium butyricum—each proven to support digestive and skin health. Available through select clinics and at pendulumlife.com.

Teen skin comes with its own set of challenges—and lessons that last a lifetime. In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee break down everything you need to know about teenage skin, from acne and oily skin to dandruff, deodorant, and even the emotional side of breakouts.

They cover why acne happens, how hormones trigger oil production, and the simple skincare routines that actually work (without overcomplicating things). The hosts also share their own teenage skincare mistakes, discuss the dangers of social media "hacks," and explain how confidence and clear skin aren't the same thing. Plus, this week's "Did You Know?" reveals how common acne really is—and a few surprising facts about who gets it worst.

Whether you're a teen struggling with breakouts, a parent trying to help, or someone who just wishes they had this advice sooner, this episode offers practical tips, honest talk, and a dose of reassurance that you're not alone.

Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportelaYouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDocYouTube (Educational): @drdustinportelaPinterest: @DrDustinPortela

Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac

Product of the Week — La Roche-Posay Purifying Foaming Cleanser, Differin Gel & EltaMD UV ClearA simple, dermatologist-approved trio perfect for teenage skin. La Roche-Posay's gentle foaming cleanser removes oil without stripping, Differin Gel fights acne and improves texture, and EltaMD UV Clear provides lightweight SPF protection with niacinamide to calm and balance the skin.

LRP Purifying Foaming Cleanser: https://go.shopmy.us/p-27229440 Differin Gel: https://go.shopmy.us/p-27229626 EltaMD UV Clear: https://go.shopmy.us/p-27289224

When your skin is red, tight, flaky, or stinging—your barrier might be crying for help. In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee unpack everything you need to know about the skin barrier: what it is, what damages it, and how to repair it. They break down how harsh cleansers, over-exfoliation, environmental stress, and even skincare "enthusiasm" can compromise your barrier—and what to do when it happens.

You'll learn how to simplify your routine, which ingredients actually help (ceramides, niacinamide, urea, and petrolatum), and when to ditch actives like retinol or acids. They also share dermatologist-approved strategies for soothing irritation, rebuilding the microbiome, and preventing future flare-ups. Plus, this week's "Did You Know?" features some wild animal skin trivia you won't forget.

Whether your skin's feeling dry, angry, or overworked, this episode gives you a reset plan for a calm, balanced, and healthy complexion.

Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportelaYouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDocYouTube (Educational): @drdustinportelaPinterest: @DrDustinPortela

Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac

Product of the Week — Avène Barrier Repair CollectionDr. Portela's go-to for restoring damaged skin. The lineup includes Avène Thermal Spring Water (to calm and rebalance the microbiome), Cicalfate+ Cream (for deep moisture and healing), and XeraCalm A.D Balm (for soothing itch and sensitivity). Sterile, fragrance-free, and dermatologist-approved—perfect for post-procedure skin or daily repair.

Avene Thermal Spring Water: https://go.shopmy.us/p-27228027 Avene Cicalfate+ Cream: https://go.shopmy.us/p-17833034 Avene XeraCalm AD: https://go.shopmy.us/p-27228788

From stubborn acne marks to melasma and sunspots, unwanted pigmentation is one of the most common reasons people see a dermatologist. In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee break down the different types of pigmentation, why they happen, and the science behind how to treat them.

They cover post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), melasma, sunspots, freckles, and even lighter pigment changes like idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis. You'll learn why pigmentation is so persistent, how heat and even blue light can make melasma worse, and why sunscreen is always step one. Dustin and Austin also dive into prescription options like hydroquinone, over-the-counter ingredients like kojic acid and niacinamide, and emerging alternatives like thiamidol and melasyl. They also explore in-office options—chemical peels, lasers, and microneedling—and explain which treatments work best for which conditions.

This week's "Did You Know?" reveals just how common pigmentation really is in dermatology offices—and why it often shows up alongside other concerns.

Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportelaYouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDocYouTube (Educational): @drdustinportelaPinterest: @DrDustinPortela

Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac

Product of the Week — Eucerin Radiant Tone CollectionFeaturing thiamidol, a unique ingredient that helps reduce pigmentation without the risks associated with hydroquinone. The line includes a gentle cleanser, serum, tinted SPF, and night

In this special guest episode, Dr. Dustin Portela sits down with Chris Salgado—founder of Atwater Skincare and former president of Kiehl's—for a candid conversation about men's self-care, confidence, and mental health. With over 40 years in the beauty industry, Chris shares what inspired him to create a modern men's brand, why skincare for men needs more than just "marketing," and how grooming habits like beards fit into the bigger picture of self-image.

They also talk openly about the role skincare can play in building emotional resilience, the challenges of launching a brand in today's crowded market, and why small intentional habits (like daily sunscreen or a simple skincare routine) can transform more than just your skin. Plus, Chris opens up about his personal journey—from motorcycles to mental health advocacy—and offers an exclusive discount for Skinfluence listeners on Atwater Skincare.

Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportela YouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDoc YouTube (Educational): @drdustinportela Pinterest: @DrDustinPortela

Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac

Atwater Skincare Offer Chris has generously offered Skinfluence listeners a discount (rare for Atwater!) when you shop at atwaterskincare.com. Use the code DRDUSTIN at checkout to save on premium men's skincare, including beard oil, moisturizers, and more.

From toothpaste on pimples to lemon juice masks, TikTok is full of skincare "hacks" that promise quick fixes but can actually do more harm than good. In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee put the most viral trends under the microscope, breaking down why they don't work and what you should be doing instead.

They cover everything from sugar scrubs and at-home microneedling to slugging, jade rollers, beef tallow, pimple patches, and DIY masks. Along the way, they share personal stories from the clinic, laugh about some of the stranger cases they've seen, and highlight the difference between harmless self-care rituals and habits that can really wreck your skin. Plus, this week's "Did You Know?" dives into some surprising historical skincare practices—from crushed pearls to the "retinol sandwich" myth.

If you've ever been tempted to try a social media hack, this episode will help you separate fact from fiction—so your skin stays safe, healthy, and glowing.

Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportelaYouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDocYouTube (Educational): @drdustinportelaPinterest: @DrDustinPortela

Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac

Product of the Week — Cure Red Light MaskA high-quality LED mask that delivers the proven benefits of red light therapy to boost skin health and reduce inflammation. Available now through the Air Skin Store at a discounted price.