Fact-Checking Viral Skincare Trends with Dr. Dustin Portela

In this episode of The Skin Real, Dr. Mary Alice Mina sits down with dermatologist and Skinfluence Podcast host Dr. Dustin Portela to break down the skincare trends flooding social media right now. From DIY sunscreen and beef tallow moisturizer to at-home chemical peels and tanmaxxing, they separate real dermatology from viral misinformation. The conversation covers red flags to watch for in skincare influencers, the science behind sunscreen safety, why skin cycling can work when done right, age-appropriate routines for kids and teens, and what medical grade skincare actually means. It is a practical, no-nonsense guide to protecting your skin from bad advice.

In this episode:

0:00 Intro 1:15 Meet Dr. Dustin Portela 3:00 How to spot fake skincare advice online 6:15 The truth about DIY sunscreen 9:30 Beef tallow moisturizer breakdown 13:00 At-home chemical peels and TCA risks 16:45 Tan maxing and the return of tanning culture 21:00 Melanotan and the anti-sunscreen movement 25:30 Sunscreen myths and the seatbelt analogy 28:45 Skin cycling explained 31:15 Skincare for kids and teens 34:00 Real skin vs filtered skin 35:15 What medical grade skincare actually means 36:45 Top three tips for cutting through the noise 37:45 Where to find Dr. Portela

Want a deeper look? Watch the full episode on YouTube for a more visual experience of today’s discussion. This episode is best enjoyed on video—don’t miss out!

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About the guest:

Dr. Dustin Portela, is a board-certified dermatologist based in Boise, Idaho. An Idaho native, he earned his Honors Bachelor of Science in Zoology from Idaho State University and completed his medical degree at Des Moines University, graduating with recognition for Excellence in Physiology. Following medical school, Dr. Portela undertook his internship through Michigan State University at Oakwood Southshore Hospital and completed his dermatology residency at Beaumont Trenton Hospital, where he received the Excellence in Dermatologic Surgery Award. Dr. Portela's professional interests encompass holistic health, skin cancer prevention, complex medical dermatology, and wound healing.

Connect with Dr. Dustin Portela:

Websites: https://drdustinportela.com/

(Dēne skincare): https://shop.drdustinportela.com/?srsltid=AfmBOooiH1GWOmjtZlhi7SHBcSvlaEWwXIWclmQH5ajSwr_EcWt60Y3e

Instagram: @drdustinportela

FB: @drdustinportela

TikTok: drdustinportela

Podcast: Skinfluence

About the host:

Dr. Mina is a board-certified dermatologist on a mission to cut through the noise and help women feel amazing in their skin again. After decades in clinic, she has taken her expertise online to offer trusted, no-fluff education and skin strategies that actually work. No filters. No fear tactics. Just science, simplicity, and a little fun!

Follow Dr. Mina here: Instagram: https://instagram.com/drminaskin Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drminaskin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskin LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drminaskin/

Visit The Skin Real Serenbe:

Website: https://theskinrealserenbe.com/

Book your Meet and Greet here

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.