I love connecting with other dermatology experts, and my recent chat with Amy Koberling from 'The Skinthusiast' was such a treat! There’s something special about talking with people who share the same passion for skincare. It’s not just about keeping up with the latest treatments—though that’s always exciting—but also about exploring the wild and sometimes weird world of skincare trends.

For those who don’t know, Amy is a dermatology physician assistant who has built an amazing community through her podcast and website, 'The Skinthusiast!' We talked about everything from the newest skincare treatments to some of the most bizarre trends we’ve come across (and trust me, we’ve seen it all).

Here are some key takeaways from my interview with Amy:

1) Shop for your skin condition and not just actives

I couldn’t agree more! Too often, people buy products and serums with actives without really knowing why they’re using them. They might have heard about it from a celebrity, influencer, or friend, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s what their skin needs. Instead of chasing trends and shopping for specific ingredients, start by figuring out what your skin actually needs and then find products that address those concerns. Look for products that target your specific issues rather than just piling on actives. Many products already contain a mix of ingredients, so you might not need to buy them all separately. Check your labels to see if something like niacinamide is already included. Not sure what’s best for your skin? Your dermatologist can provide personalized advice to help you find what truly works for you!

2) Don't follow every skincare trend

Yes, yes, and yes! And is it just me, or do trends seem to be getting crazier and crazier? Many of these trends are just clickbait designed to grab attention rather than offer genuine skincare advice. Sometimes, they can even be harmful or dangerous if not approached with caution. It’s so important to fact-check and source any new trend you come across, especially if it seems outrageous or too good to be true. Always look for credible information and consult with experts before jumping on the bandwagon. Your skin deserves thoughtful care, not just the latest fad. Stay informed and make choices that truly benefit your skin's health!

3) Consistency is key

Amen! One of the biggest skincare mistakes I see is constantly chasing the latest, greatest product from celebrity X. We’re all tempted to try the next big thing, but here’s the scoop: real results come from consistency. Find products that truly suit your skin’s needs and your budget, and give them a solid three months to work their magic before deciding they’re not for you. Bouncing from product to product means your skin never gets the chance to adjust and react properly, which can lead to irritation.

4) Sun protection is a must

Can't stop, won't stop talking about this! Sun protection is a must for maintaining your skin's integrity and collagen, keeping your complexion even and uniform, and preventing skin cancers. Sunscreen is a key component of sun protection, but don't stop here. Instead, consider sunscreen as just one part of your sun protection strategy. Add a stylish hat, seek out shade, and opt for sun-protective clothing whenever possible. These extra steps will keep your skin youthful and glowing, making all your skincare products and treatments even more effective!

5) Real talk about melasma

Repeat after me: "melasma is a chronic condition!" Unfortunately, there are no quick fixes for this CHRONIC skin condition! In fact, the more aggressively we treat it, the more it can backfire! If you are struggling with melasma, recognize that there is first a treatment phase, where topical bleaching creams, light peels, and sometimes even oral medications can be used. But that’s just the beginning! Next comes the maintenance phase, where strict sun protection is always key. Here’s a surprising fact: melasma can be triggered by visible light and heat, too! So, if you’re battling melasma, be cautious with hot saunas and certain LED masks, as they could aggravate your condition. Patience and care are essential to keeping melasma in check and your skin looking its best!

Listen to this week’s podcast with Amy Koberling, where she shares her best skincare tips, talks about which trends are worth it, and explains what she thinks everyone should know about skincare.

A new podcast episode drops every Monday!

For more great skin care tips, subscribe to The Skin Real Podcast.

Find Amy Koberling here:

Website: https://skinthusiast.com/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/amykoberling/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/theskinthusiast/
TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@the_skinthusiast?lang=en