Shows
Dermatologist DebriefsPregnancy Skincare: What's Safe and What to SkipConfused about which skincare products are safe during pregnancy? Dermatologist Dr. Stefanie Williams cuts through the confusion with clear, science-backed guidance on what to avoid and what to embrace. From retinoids and salicylic acid to pregnancy-safe alternatives for acne, hyperpigmentation, and sun protection, discover exactly which ingredients deserve a spot in your routine—and which ones should stay on the shelf until after delivery. Essential listening for expectant mothers who refuse to compromise on either safety or results.
2025-10-2413 minDermatologist DebriefsThe Autoimmune Guide to Safe Aesthetic TreatmentsAutoimmune conditions are rising globally, but what does this mean for those seeking cosmetic enhancement? In this episode, Dr. Stefanie breaks down which aesthetic treatments are genuinely safe and which carry hidden risks for an overactive immune system. From Botox variants to the delayed reactions fillers can trigger months later, this is essential listening for anyone navigating beauty treatments with frontal fibrosing alopecia, lupus, or other autoimmune conditions.
2025-10-0915 minDermatologist DebriefsOzempic Face is real, but it can be fixed with the right approachThe rapid weight loss revolution has a dark secret that's aging faces at an alarming rate. Dr. Stefanie Williams, leading dermatologist and medical truth-teller, exposes the "Ozempic face" phenomenon that's shocking patients worldwide. This isn't just about temporary side effects – it's about permanent facial changes resembling decades of accelerated aging.In this crucial episode, Dr. Stefanie reveals why drugs like Ozempic are causing sunken cheeks, deep furrows, and gaunt appearances that make users look tired and unwell. She explains the science behind rapid facial fat loss and disrupted collagen production, and shares the professional solutions actually working in...
2025-08-2809 minDermatologist DebriefsBeyond Fillers: Exploring the Regenerative World of Skin BoostersEver wondered about the differences between Profilo, polynucleotides, Sunekos, and other skin boosters? Dr. Stefanie Williams cuts through the confusion with expert clarity in this informative episode.Skin boosters represent a fundamentally different approach to injectable aesthetics compared to traditional fillers. While fillers remain in place to add volume or definition to specific areas, skin boosters are designed to spread throughout the skin, delivering deep hydration and stimulating your body's natural production of collagen and elastin. The result is improved overall skin quality, elasticity, and texture—without the risk of looking "done" or overfilled.Dr. St...
2025-08-1415 minDermatologist DebriefsHair Loss: The Questions You’ve Been Afraid to AskAre you noticing more hair in your brush or shower and wondering if it’s normal? Join Dermatologist Dr Stefanie Williams as she answers your most pressing questions in a fast paced and insightful session that debunks myths and reveals actionable facts. Discover why hair loss often goes unnoticed at first, how many hairs you lose each day, and why early intervention is so important. Dr Stefanie explains the full spectrum of causes—from stress to genetics—so that you can spot warning signs and make informed decisions. You’ll also learn when home solutions are enough and when to seek...
2025-07-3119 minDermatologist DebriefsBeyond the Basics: Understanding the Top 3 Prescription Creams for RosaceaStruggling to make sense of your rosacea prescription? In this essential episode of Dermatologist Debriefs, no-nonsense dermatologist Dr. Stefanie Williams cuts through the confusion, giving you a professional breakdown of the three most-prescribed creams for rosacea.Discover the real reason these treatments work – it might not be what you think! Dr. Williams explains the science behind Metronidazole, Azelaic Acid, and Ivermectin, revealing how they target inflammation. You'll learn which cream is best for sensitive skin, why the formulation you choose matters (including a crucial "life hack" from Dr. Williams), and the vital first step you must take be...
2025-07-1714 min
The Swim BriefDebrief: Stefanie Williams MorenoStefanie Williams Moreno is the head coach of Women’s Swimming and Diving at the University of Georgia.Click here to support the podcast with a one time donation.
2025-07-1400 minDermatologist DebriefsThe Ugly Truth About Silicones in SkincareAre your skincare products secretly suffocating your skin? In this eye-opening debrief, dermatologist Dr Stefanie pulls back the curtain on one of skincare's most ubiquitous yet problematic ingredients: silicones.You might not realise it, but silicone derivatives lurk in nearly every bottle and jar on your bathroom shelf. These synthetic ingredients—recognisable by suffixes like "-cone," "-methicone," or "-siloxane"—create that silky-smooth texture we've come to associate with luxury skincare. But what if that velvety feeling comes at a serious cost to your skin health?Dr Stefanie reveals how silicones form an occlusive film that acts...
2025-06-1209 minDermatologist DebriefsProbiotic Skincare DecodedEver wondered what's really in those "probiotic" skincare products lining the shelves? Dr. Stefanie cuts through the marketing jargon to reveal a surprising truth – there are actually no live bacteria in any skincare products on the market today. Such formulations simply wouldn't remain stable!So what exactly are we putting on our faces when we use products claiming probiotic benefits? In this episode, Dr. Stefanie breaks down the area into four distinct categories that bring clarity to this confusing skincare trend. Understanding these distinctions matters because supporting your skin's microbiome offers multiple benefits beyond what mos...
2025-06-0507 minDermatologist DebriefsRethinking Skin TypesHave you been misdiagnosing your own skin? That seemingly simple question sits at the heart of Dr. Stefanie's revelation about the flawed skin type classification system most of us have followed for years.Dr. Stefanie takes aim at the traditional four-category skin type model and proposes a practical revision that could transform your skincare routine. For example, if you've ever felt caught in the frustrating cycle of treating skin that feels dry but still breaks out, this may not be dry skin at all, but rather skin experiencing microinflammation creating a sensation of dryness. This e...
2025-05-2909 minDermatologist DebriefsWhy "For All Skin Types" Is a Marketing MythIn this episode, Dr. Stefanie delivers a reality check on products which claim to be "perfect for all skin types" and describes how the one-size-fits-all approach is fundamentally flawed. Conditions that may appear similar on the surface often have completely different needs and using skincare not designed for your specific skin type can trigger a range of problems. Dr. Stefanie explains how terms like "sensitive skin" and "for redness" oversimplify complex dermatological realities, often leading consumers astray. This episode highlights a crucial truth often overlooked by the beauty industry: using products designed for the w...
2025-05-2205 minDermatologist DebriefsImportant tips for having botox on your foreheadDermatologist Debriefs is back with another fast-paced, myth-busting session. In this episode, consultant dermatologist Dr Stefanie focuses on the deceptively tricky forehead and explains why treating it with botulinum toxin demands much more than a steady hand. She starts by mapping the frontalis muscle—from hairline to brow—and shows how habitual “brow lifting” carves horizontal lines into the skin. You will learn why relaxing that muscle can leave some patients feeling unexpectedly heavy-eyed, why true eyelid ptosis is rare, and how thoughtful dose adjustments—or even skipping the forehead entirely—avoid the problem. Dr Stefanie also...
2025-05-1509 minDermatologist DebriefsShould I use an infrared sauna if I suffer with rosacea?Infrared saunas are all the rage right now. But what happens when rosacea-prone skin meets all that warmth? In this episode, dermatologist Dr Stefanie pulls back the curtain on infrared therapy. She explains, in plain language, how invisible infrared energy differs from everyday UV rays, why we register it as heat, and how that temperature rise can set off the flushing cycle common in rosacea.You’ll learn why far-infrared saunas heat you from the inside out, and how to weigh the promised benefits against the very real risk of a flare. By the end, yo...
2025-05-0807 minDermatologist DebriefsDon’t use a home needle roller before listening to thisEver wondered why professional skin needling costs so much more than buying a roller online? Dr Stefanie cuts through confusion by explaining the crucial distinctions between clinic and home needling. Professional needling penetrates the dermis, creating thousands of controlled microinjuries that trigger a comprehensive healing cascade. This medical-grade process delivers genuine skin regeneration, improving texture, reducing scars, minimizing pores, and softening wrinkles.Home rollers serve a valuable but different purpose. By creating shallow penetration through your skin's protective barrier, they significantly enhance absorption of skincare products that would otherwise struggle to penetrate. Dr Ste...
2025-05-0111 minDermatologist DebriefsMedia Pressure and the myth of PerfectionWhat happens when social media tells us that 50-year-old women should look like Sandra Bullock or Jennifer Aniston? As a dermatologist and aesthetic doctor in my 50s, I'm pulling back the curtain on the harmful comparison between the Golden Girls of the 1980s and today's celebrity women in their fifties.The truth? Those flawless celebrity images aren't reality—they're the product of professional styling teams, carefully controlled environments, and sophisticated digital editing. When we present these images as "normal aging," we create impossible standards that lead to real psychological harm. Body dissatisfaction, anxiety, and depression are the di...
2025-04-1704 minDermatologist DebriefsThe Hidden Drawbacks of Tetravitamin C for Breakout-Prone SkinVitamin C is a cornerstone ingredient in modern skincare, but not all forms of this powerhouse antioxidant are created equal. Dr. Stefanie cuts through the marketing hype to deliver a frank assessment of tetravitamin C (tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate), revealing why this trending ingredient might be sabotaging your skincare goals.This lipid-soluble vitamin C derivative boasts impressive credentials and is exceptionally effective at delivering antioxidant protection, stimulating collagen production, and combating hyperpigmentation. But the very characteristic that gives tetravitamin C its advantages—its oil solubility—creates a significant catch. Dr. Stefanie explains why this can be problematic for those with...
2025-04-1005 minDermatologist DebriefsAging Beautifully: Cosmetic Treatments in your 70'sHave you ever wondered if there's an age limit for starting cosmetic treatments? Dr Stefanie reveals that an analysis of her clinic database revealed something fascinating - while women predictably seek more aesthetic procedures in their 40s as aging signs appear, there's a second unexpected surge in women's 70s.Dr Stefanie describes her first had experience as a dermatologist who's treated many septuagenarians, how these treatments transform not just appearance but overall wellbeing. For mature skin, the focus shifts away from merely targeting wrinkles toward enhancing overall skin quality - creating healthy, radiant, evenly-toned complexions that appear...
2025-03-2708 minDermatologist DebriefsVitamin D, Windows, and The Sun: A Dermatologist's PerspectiveWondering if that sunny spot by your office window is giving you all the vitamin D you need? Dr. Stefanie tackles this common misconception head-on with scientific clarity.The truth might surprise you: despite feeling the sun's warmth through glass, your body isn't getting the specific ultraviolet rays needed for vitamin D production. This episode breaks down the crucial difference between UVA rays (which can penetrate glass and age your skin) and UVB rays (which are blocked by windows but essential for vitamin D synthesis).
2025-03-2004 minDermatologist DebriefsScar Treatment Secrets: 9 Essential Supportive Measures for Atrophic ScarringWhat really makes the difference when treating those frustrating depressed scars? Dr. Stefanie cuts through the noise to deliver a comprehensive framework of supportive measures for anyone undergoing atrophic scar treatment.Forget the one-dimensional approach. While professional treatments like lasers and microneedling form the foundation of effective scar management, Dr. Williams reveals nine complementary strategies that can dramatically enhance your results. From the strategic application of anti-pigment serums and vitamin C to prevent discoloration, to the surprising impact of stress management on collagen production – this episode delivers actionable guidance for optimizing healing.Whether you're currently und...
2025-03-1311 minDermatologist DebriefsThe Five Faces of Facial Pigmentation: Everything You Need to KnowGet ready to deep dive into the complex world of facial pigmentation! In this enlightening episode, we uncover the five primary types of irregular pigmentation, making sense of conditions like melasma, chronic sun damage, freckles, seborrheic keratosis, and post-inflammatory pigmentation. Dr. Stefanie Williams shares her expertise, demystifying these skin issues and explaining their underlying causes.Learn why accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment, particularly how certain interventions, like laser therapy, can have varied outcomes depending on the specific pigmentation type.
2025-03-0614 minDermatologist DebriefsUnderstanding UV Filters: What You Need to KnowReady to boost your sun protection knowledge? In this episode, dermatologist Dr. Stefanie Williams unpacks the complexities of sunscreens. Learn about the fundamental differences between physical and chemical UV filters, and which is best suited for your skin type. Do you suffer from sensitive or acne-prone skin? Understanding how each sunscreen works can guide you to choose the right product.Dr Stefanie tackles common misconceptions, such as whether there’s a real difference between dedicated sunscreens and SPF moisturisers and explores why both physical and chemical filters are effective against UV rays but not infrared or visible li...
2025-02-2708 minDermatologist DebriefsUnveiling the Science Behind Collagen SupplementsUnlock the secrets to healthier, more resilient skin with Dr. Stefanie Williams, the no-nonsense dermatologist who demystifies the science of collagen in skincare. Ever wondered why your skin starts losing its youthful glow after your mid-20s or why post-menopausal changes hit so hard? Dr. Stefanie breaks down the roles of different types of collagen, explaining how they contribute to your skin's strength, repair, and stability. She also tackles the impact of lifestyle choices, like sun exposure and sugar consumption, on collagen degradation. And if you've been slathering on collagen creams hoping to rewind time, get ready for a...
2025-02-2012 minDermatologist DebriefsWhen is the Best Time to Start Collagen Banking?Could starting your skincare routine in your 40s be more effective than in your 20s? Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Dr. Stefanie Williams, a no-nonsense dermatologist, as she challenges the conventional wisdom of early collagen banking. Dr. Williams dismantles the myth of starting collagen banking in your 20s, advocating instead for initiating this preventative skincare strategy during the perimenopausal years. She explains how this timing is crucial for preparing your skin for the hormonal upheavals of menopause, ensuring you maintain a youthful complexion as you age.
2025-02-1308 minDermatologist DebriefsIs Your Skincare Routine Ready for Beef Tallow?Curious about the latest beauty trend that's causing a stir? Dermatologist Dr. Stephanie joins us to shed light on the controversial practice of using beef tallow as a skincare solution. While it may be nutrient-rich when consumed, its effects work differently when applied to our skin, in much the same way as coconut oil. If you are considering using this natural remedy on your skin, make sure to tune into this podcast first...
2025-02-0605 min
Dermatologist DebriefsWhat doctors often get wrong when treating RosaceaUnderstanding the complexities of rosacea is essential for effective management and treatment. This episode clarifies common myths surrounding rosacea treatments, the importance of medication formulation, and the ideal skincare routine for individuals with this condition. - Clarifying misconceptions about rosacea treatments - Discussing the importance of topical vs. systemic treatments - Highlighting the benefits of combined therapies for rosacea - Addressing skincare products that can hinder treatment progress - Reviewing the role and timing of laser and IPL treatments - Offering practical advice for patients seeking effective rosacea managementDr Stefan...
2025-01-3008 min
Dermatologist DebriefsAre we overdoing sun protection?Is it possible that our obsession with sun protection is harming our health? Join Dr. Stefanie Williams, a dermatologist unafraid to challenge the status quo as she dives into the complex relationship between sun exposure, vitamin D, and overall well-being, questioning whether our stringent sun safety practices have cast a shadow over our health. With her wealth of expertise, she navigates the fine line between preventing skin damage and ensuring we don't miss out on the vital benefits of the sun.Dr. Stefanie sheds light on maintaining optimal vitamin D levels amidst the haze of widespread sun...
2025-01-2306 min