The Skin Real ®

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In this episode of The Skin Real Podcast, I break down the top 5 reasons why working with an esthetician might be the missing link in your skincare routine — even if you already have a dermatologist.

If you’re confused about what estheticians actually do (or whether you even need one), this episode is for you. I talk about how estheticians can support your skin between medical treatments, help you stay consistent with your plan, and bring a level of hands-on care that many people are missing, especially during seasons of skin change.

Estheticians aren’t here to replace medical care, but when you find a good one, they can really elevate your results. Because great skin doesn’t happen from products alone. And it doesn’t happen overnight. But it can happen — with the right guidance, the right support, and a routine that actually works for your skin.

If you’ve been feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just not seeing the results you want, this episode is for you.

Need an app? Click here to get $100 off at Vyten.

🎙️Want more expert skin advice without the overwhelm?

Subscribe to The Skin Real Podcast wherever you listen, and visit www.theskinreal.com for dermatologist-backed tips to help you feel confident in your skin—at every age.

Follow Dr. Mina here:- 

https://instagram.com/drminaskin

https://www.facebook.com/drminaskin

https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskin

https://www.linkedin.com/in/drminaskin/

Visit Dr. Mina at Baucom & Mina Derm Surgery

Thanks for tuning in. And remember—real skin care is real simple when you know who to trust.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.

Shop Dr. Mina's Fall Skincare Favorites Here

Looking for help with your skin but overwhelmed by too many products and not enough clarity? You’re not alone. One of the most common questions I hear in my dermatology practice is: “How do I find a great esthetician?”

Whether you’re new to facials, trying to streamline your routine, or looking for someone to guide you through seasonal skin changes, partnering with the right skincare professional can make all the difference. That’s where a qualified esthetician comes in.

In this episode, I’m joined by Lindsey Holder, a licensed esthetician with over 15 years of experience, to talk about exactly what an esthetician can (and can’t) do, how they can work hand-in-hand with your dermatologist, and what to look for before you book your first appointment.

We also share the red flags to watch for and the questions you should always ask so you can feel confident about the person caring for your skin.

Key Takeaways:

The difference between estheticians and dermatologists—and why you might benefit from both.

Services and guidance a qualified esthetician can provide (and where their scope ends).

Red flags to avoid before booking your first appointment.

The must-ask questions to find a pro who fits your needs.

Why collaboration between medical and aesthetic care gives better results.

Lindsey Holder is a Licensed Master Esthetician and Certified Thermographer with over 15 years of experience in the skincare and wellness industry. She helps women achieve naturally radiant skin through simple, effective routines they can do right at home.

With a background that includes working behind the scenes for celebrity artists in Los Angeles, Lindsey blends high-level industry insight with a down-to-earth, results-driven approach.

She shares her expertise through LindseyHolder.com and her free skincare and beauty app, Lapree Beauty, available on Apple and Google Play. Listeners can also download her free skincare guide at LindseyHolder.com/guide to start building a personalized routine with confidence.

Follow Lindsey Holder here:

https://www.instagram.com/lindseyrholder?igsh=MTFhN21sdjl5ZXNnbw==

https://www.instagram.com/spaskinandbeauty?igsh=MWx0M2d0cDV2dTJ6bg==

https://lindseyholder.com/guide/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindseyholder1/

Visit innerglowvitamins.com and use my code Dr.Mina for 10% off your order at checkout.

🎙️Want more expert skin advice without the overwhelm?

Subscribe to The Skin Real Podcast wherever you listen, and visit www.theskinreal.com for dermatologist-backed tips to help you feel confident in your skin—at every age.

Follow Dr. Mina here:- 

https://instagram.com/drminaskin

https://www.facebook.com/drminaskin

https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskin

https://www.linkedin.com/in/drminaskin/

Visit Dr. Mina at Baucom & Mina Derm Surgery

Thanks for tuning in. And remember—real skin care is real simple when you know who to trust.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.

Download The Ultimate Affordable Skincare Guide

The Skin Real app is officially LIVE! Download it now.

Still experiencing breakouts despite using all the right products? You’re not alone and no, your skin isn’t just “acting up.” It’s responding to stress.

In this week's recap episode, I unpack the key takeaways from my conversation with Dr. Keira Barr, a board-certified dermatologist who’s become a leading voice in psychodermatology. I talk about how your skin is biologically wired to respond to emotional stress and what that means for your acne, rashes, or flare-ups that seem to appear out of nowhere.

Your skin and nervous system share the same embryologic origin, which means when one is off, the other follows. If you’re navigating chronic skin issues that no serum seems to solve, this episode is your roadmap to finally understanding what’s really going on and what to do about it!

🎙️Want more expert skin advice without the overwhelm?

Subscribe to The Skin Real Podcast wherever you listen, and visit www.theskinreal.com for dermatologist-backed tips to help you feel confident in your skin—at every age.

Follow Dr. Mina here:- 

https://instagram.com/drminaskin

https://www.facebook.com/drminaskin

https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskin

https://www.linkedin.com/in/drminaskin/

Visit Dr. Mina at Baucom & Mina Derm Surgery

Thanks for tuning in. And remember—real skin care is real simple when you know who to trust.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.

The Skin Real app is officially LIVE! Download it now.

Shop my skincare favorites here.

Tired of blaming your breakouts on your moisturizer? The real culprit might be stress.

In this episode, Dr. Mina speaks with Dr. Keira Barr, a leading  dermatologist, about the deep (and science-backed) connection between your mind, your stress levels, and your skin. From breakouts to rosacea and hormonal shifts, Dr. Barr explains how chronic stress and unprocessed emotions can lead to inflammation, flare-ups, and skin that feels like it’s fighting back.

You’ll learn about the “NICE Network”—a 4-way biological highway between your nervous, immune, cutaneous, and endocrine systems and why nervous system regulation might be the missing piece in your skincare routine. 

 Key takeaways:

If you’re a skincare minimalist, a wellness seeker, or just want to understand why your skin flares when your life does, this one’s for you.

Dr. Keira Barr is on a mission to change the conversation about skin health. As a dermatologist and somatic trauma therapy practitioner, she helps women heal the invisible wounds that fuel skin issues—and create a relationship with their bodies based on trust instead of control. As the founder of the Center for Mind Skin Medicine and creator of Somatic Skincare™, she is a passionate guide for women ready to reclaim their radiance from the inside out.

Find Dr. Barr here:

https://drkeirabarr.com/

https://www.instagram.com/drkeirabarr/

https://www.facebook.com/drkeirabarr

Need an app? Click here to get $100 off at Vyten.

🎙️Want more expert skin advice without the overwhelm?

Subscribe to The Skin Real Podcast wherever you listen, and visit www.theskinreal.com for dermatologist-backed tips to help you feel confident in your skin—at every age.

Follow Dr. Mina here:- 

https://instagram.com/drminaskin

https://www.facebook.com/drminaskin

https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskin

https://www.linkedin.com/in/drminaskin/

Visit Dr. Mina at Baucom & Mina Derm Surgery

Thanks for tuning in. And remember—real skin care is real simple when you know who to trust.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.

The Skin Real app is officially LIVE! Download it now.

Get my free PDF on How to create Healthy Skin Habits here.

Download the free eBook 'Skincare Myths Busted' here.

If your skincare routine is starting to feel like a second job and your self-care checklist is leaving you more exhausted than empowered, this episode is for you.

In today’s recap, I dive deep into the “Edit” pillar of my R.EA.L. Skin Method. This is about cutting through the clutter—physically and mentally, and letting go of the habits, products, and pressures that aren’t actually serving your skin or your life. We’re taking a step back from the never-ending pursuit of perfection and asking: what truly helps, and what’s just noise? Because skincare should support your health, not hijack your headspace.

Tune in for a much-needed reality check, and permission to do less—better.

Shop my skincare favorites here.

Need an app? Click here to get $100 off at Vyten.

🎙️Want more expert skin advice without the overwhelm?

Subscribe to The Skin Real Podcast wherever you listen, and visit www.theskinreal.com for dermatologist-backed tips to help you feel confident in your skin—at every age.

Follow Dr. Mina here:- 

https://instagram.com/drminaskin

https://www.facebook.com/drminaskin

https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskin

https://www.linkedin.com/in/drminaskin/

Visit Dr. Mina at Baucom & Mina Derm Surgery

Thanks for tuning in. And remember—real skin care is real simple when you know who to trust.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.

The Skin Real app is officially LIVE! Download it now.

Shop my skincare favorites here.

On this week's episode of the Skin Real Podcast, I’m getting real about something I see every day as a dermatologist and as a woman: skin care overwhelm. The trends, the steps, the products…it’s a lot. And honestly? It’s mostly unnecessary.

After two decades as a board-certified dermatologist, I’ve created a method that cuts through the confusion and helps you build a routine grounded in what your skin actually needs. The R.E.A.L. Skin Method isn’t about chasing perfection. It’s about empowering you to take care of your skin in a way that’s effective, evidence-based, and sustainable.

 Don’t miss this one—your skin (and sanity) will thank you.

Need an app? Click here to get $100 off at Vyten.

🎙️Want more expert skin advice without the overwhelm?

Subscribe to The Skin Real Podcast wherever you listen, and visit www.theskinreal.com for dermatologist-backed tips to help you feel confident in your skin—at every age.

Follow Dr. Mina here:- 

https://instagram.com/drminaskin

https://www.facebook.com/drminaskin

https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskin

https://www.linkedin.com/in/drminaskin/

Visit Dr. Mina at Baucom & Mina Derm Surgery

Thanks for tuning in. And remember—real skin care is real simple when you know who to trust.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.

The Skin Real app is officially LIVE! Download it now.

Can you really get help for your acne or eczema over a video call? Yes—and in this recap episode, Dr. Mina tells you how.

With so many of us juggling packed schedules and long wait times for in-person visits, Dr. Mina explores how virtual dermatology appointments are not only a convenient alternative but, in many cases, an incredibly effective one.

She breaks down exactly how these appointments work, what equipment (if any) you need, and how patients can receive expert guidance on conditions like acne, rosacea, melasma, eczema, and more—all from the comfort of their own home.

If you’ve ever wondered whether teledermatology could work for you or your family, or you’re curious about what a virtual appointment actually looks like, this episode is for you. 

Need an app? Click here to get $100 off at Vyten.

Shop Dr. Mina's skincare favorites here:

https://www.airehealth.com/patients/drminaskin

🎙️Want more expert skin advice without the overwhelm?

Subscribe to The Skin Real Podcast wherever you listen, and visit www.theskinreal.com for dermatologist-backed tips to help you feel confident in your skin—at every age.

Follow Dr. Mina here:- 

https://instagram.com/drminaskin

https://www.facebook.com/drminaskin

https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskin

https://www.linkedin.com/in/drminaskin/

Visit Dr. Mina at Baucom & Mina Derm Surgery

Thanks for tuning in. And remember—real skin care is real simple when you know who to trust.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.

The Skin Real app is officially LIVE! Download it now.

In this episode, Dr. Mina chats with Dr. Tara Akunna, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of a virtual dermatology practice in Texas. Together, they dive into how teledermatology is making skin care more accessible, affordable, and flexible, especially for patients juggling full-time jobs, childcare, or long travel distances.

From treating acne and eczema online to addressing the concerns around quick-fix prescription apps, Dr. Akunna breaks down what virtual care can (and can’t) do, how to ensure you're seeing a qualified provider, and why direct-pay models may actually save patients time and money. If you’ve ever wondered whether a virtual derm visit is just as effective as an in-person one, this episode is for you.

Key Takeaways:

- Teledermatology improves access to skin care for busy professionals, parents, and those who live far from in-person providers.

- Common conditions like acne, eczema, rosacea, and melasma can often be treated effectively through virtual visits.

- Photo uploads (asynchronous care) are often encouraged to enhance video visits and help track changes in skin conditions over time.

- Not all telehealth platforms are created equal. Patients should seek care from board-certified dermatologists for personalized, safe treatment.

- Direct-pay models may be more affordable than insurance-based care when factoring in time, gas, childcare, and hidden costs.

- All ages can benefit from virtual dermatology—many older patients are surprisingly tech-savvy and can participate with some assistance.

- Telemedicine boosts patient adherence by reducing barriers like commuting, parking, or time off work for check-ins and refills.

- In-person care is still essential for procedures, full skin exams, and concerns that require touch, biopsy, or close inspection.

Dr. Tara Akunna is a board-certified dermatologist passionate about delivering accessible, culturally competent care to women of color. Through her virtual practice TaraMD, she offers cash-pay teledermatology services tailored to common skin concerns like acne, hyperpigmentation, and texture — all with transparent pricing and personalized treatment plans.

In addition to her virtual work, where she manages a wide range of medical and cosmetic concerns across all skin types. As a content creator, she uses her platform to demystify dermatology, highlight inclusive skincare brands, and empower people to make informed decisions about their skin.

Follow Dr. Akunna here:

https://www.tara-md.com/

https://www.instagram.com/_tara.md?igsh=MTNzcWthd2x1ZHk4ZQ==

https://www.youtube.com/@_taraMD

Need an app? Click here to get $100 off at Vyten.

Shop my skincare favorites here:

https://www.airehealth.com/patients/drminaskin

🎙️Want more expert skin advice without the overwhelm?

Subscribe to The Skin Real Podcast wherever you listen, and visit www.theskinreal.com for dermatologist-backed tips to help you feel confident in your skin—at every age.

Follow Dr. Mina here:- 

https://instagram.com/drminaskin

https://www.facebook.com/drminaskin

https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskin

https://www.linkedin.com/in/drminaskin/

Visit Dr. Mina at Baucom & Mina Derm Surgery

Thanks for tuning in. And remember—real skin care is real simple when you know who to trust.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.

Are you secretly dodging the doctor’s office out of fear it might hurt? You’re not alone—and it’s more common than you think. In this week’s episode of The Skin Real, Dr. Mina dives into the real reasons so many of us avoid care and shares her top five ways to make your next dermatology visit actually less painful. Whether it’s fear of needles, past trauma, or just not wanting to be poked and prodded, this episode is packed with tips to help you get the care you need without the panic attack.

Key Takeaways:

- Fear of the doctor is real—and valid. Many adults experience anxiety around doctor visits, especially when needles or potential diagnoses are involved.

- Needle fear is on the rise. It's not just for kids—more adults are reporting anxiety about shots and blood draws.

- You’re not alone. From biopsies to bloodwork, fear of pain keeps many people from getting necessary care.

- Empathy matters. Even as a dermatologist, Dr. Mina admits she still finds blood draws stressful—no one is immune!

- Knowledge is power. Understanding what to expect at your appointment can significantly reduce fear.

- You can minimize the pain. Simple strategies like numbing patches or distraction techniques can make procedures much more bearable.

- Your health is worth it. Avoiding appointments may feel easier, but prioritizing your skin health leads to better long-term outcomes.

If you’re building a personal brand, this is for you! Wealthy & Well-Known is the new audiobook from my mentors, Rory and AJ Vaden—and it’s available now! It’s packed with insights on turning your reputation into revenue.

🎧 Listen here.

If you’ve ever dreaded a shot or watched your kid have a meltdown before a blood draw, Thimble is for you. It’s a tiny patch that numbs the skin before any needle.Try Thimble with 20% off!

Check out my top picks for skin care here.

🎙️Want more expert skin advice without the overwhelm?

Subscribe to The Skin Real Podcast wherever you listen, and visit www.theskinreal.com for dermatologist-backed tips to help you feel confident in your skin—at every age.

Follow Dr. Mina here:- 

https://instagram.com/drminaskin

https://www.facebook.com/drminaskin

https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskin

https://www.linkedin.com/in/drminaskin/

Visit Dr. Mina at Baucom & Mina Derm Surgery

Thanks for tuning in. And remember—real skin care is real simple when you know who to trust.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.

Check out my top picks for skin care here.

Why do so many of us avoid going to the doctor—even when we know we shouldn’t? In this episode, Dr. Mina sits down with Dr. Manju Dawkins to unpack the deeply human fear that keeps patients away from the care they need. From needle phobia to fear of diagnosis, this conversation dives into the emotional blocks that sabotage our health and skin wellness.

Together, they explore how to replace avoidance with empowerment, creating safer, more compassionate healthcare spaces. Dr. Dawkins shares data, clinical insights, and thoughtful approaches to addressing patient fear—helping listeners understand what’s really behind the hesitation and how providers and patients alike can better navigate it.

Dr. Manju Dawkins is a board certified dermatologist who  received her B.A. from Columbia University and  her M.D. from the University of Maryland. She completed her dermatology residency and served as Chief Resident at Albert Einstein College of Medicine in the Bronx, NY. She was Assistant Professor at Mount Sinai School of Medicine where she was twice named Teacher of the Year.  She has practiced in academic, private, hospital based, and group practice settings in New York and Los Angeles. 

She is also the creator and co-founder of Thimble, the first easy, safe, and comprehensive solution for alleviating needle pain and stress. 

www.thimblehealth.com

Fun fact: She is 5'2" (on a good day. )

Even more fun fact: She played Division I basketball at Columbia University and served as captain her senior year. She is a founding and current member of the Columbia Women’s Basketball Advisory Board and a member of the Columbia Athletics Women’s Leadership Council.

Follow Dr. Dawkins here:

https://www.instagram.com/thimble.health/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/thimblehealth/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/manju-dawkins-md-a0224359/

http://thimblehealth.com/

https://www.tiktok.com/@thimble.health

https://www.facebook.com/thimble.health

🎙️Want more expert skin advice without the overwhelm?

Subscribe to The Skin Real Podcast wherever you listen, and visit www.theskinreal.com for dermatologist-backed tips to help you feel confident in your skin—at every age.

Follow Dr. Mina here:- 

https://instagram.com/drminaskin

https://www.facebook.com/drminaskin

https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskin

https://www.linkedin.com/in/drminaskin/

Visit Dr. Mina at Baucom & Mina Derm Surgery

Thanks for tuning in. And remember—real skin care is real simple when you know who to trust.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.