A Hair Loss Journey with a Fairytale Ending: Stephanie’s Story

A Hair Loss Journey with a Fairytale Ending: Stephanie’s Story

Description  In this moving episode of the Skincredible Podcast, Dr. Lisa Swanson sits down with Steve and Katy to share their daughter Stephanie’s journey with alopecia areata. They chat about what it was like to notice the first unexpected bald spot at age two, about navigating treatments, fears, setbacks, and ultimately finding hope. These parents open up about the emotional toll of watching their child lose her hair, the uncertainty that comes with an autoimmune diagnosis, and the difficult decisions involved in starting advanced treatments like JAK inhibitors at such a young age. Along the way, they discuss the realities of parenting through chronic illness, the anxiety fueled by internet misinformation, and the importance of finding trusted medical guidance. Most importantly, this episode highlights Stephanie herself. She is a resilient, joyful little girl whose confidence and strength remind us all that we are so much more than our appearance. This conversation offers encouragement, practical insight, and reassurance for families facing alopecia areata or any chronic childhood condition. There’s emotional vulnerability and hopeful breakthroughs, hopefully helping others who are struggling feel less alone in their own journey. Topics include: * Understanding alopecia areata in children * The emotional impact on parents and families * Treatment options, including topical therapies and JAK inhibitors * Managing fear, uncertainty, and setbacks * Helping children build confidence and resilience * The dangers of internet misinformation * Why support, communication, and hope matter so much Keywords Dermatology, Hair Loss, Alopecia, Alopecia Areata, Alopecia Totalis, Alopecia Universalis, Diffuse Alopecia, Loose Anagen Alopecia, Traction Alopecia, Hair, Skin, Skin Expert, Dermatologist, JAK inhibitors, Minoxidil, Oral Minoxidil, Allegra, Pulse Prednisone, Prednisone, Olumiant Links, Attachments NAAF: https://www.naaf.org [https://www.naaf.org/] Chapters 00:00 Intro & Welcome 00:44 Discovering Stephanie’s Alopecia Areata 03:00 Initial Reactions and Treatment Options 04:26 Three Potential Alopecia Areata Courses 06:00 Prednisone, Topicals, Oral Minoxidil, Vit D, Allegra 07:00 Discussing JAK Inhibitors: Olumiant 11:30 Stephanie Starts Olumiant 14:14 The Emotional Process of Alopecia 16:30 Stephanie’s Tips on Swallowing Pills 19:00 Stephanie Gets a Haircut 20:45 Parents’ Experience As Hair Grew Back 26:00 Set Backs During Therapy 31:00 Uncertainty, Off Label Use of Medication 33:30 Combating Online Misinformation 34:45 Advice From Parent to Parent 40:45 Writing Your Concerns Down 42:30 Stephanie’s Advice For Other Kids 43:40 Thank You & Goodbye Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2562582/fan_mail/new] The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always consult your  physician regarding your health.

Alopecia Treatments: Hope For The Hopeless

You may be wondering, “what are the best treatments for alopecia areata? Can hair grow back after alopecia areata? Are JAK inhibitors safe?” In this episode of the Skincredible Podcast, Dr. Lisa Swanson takes a comprehensive look at the latest alopecia areata treatments, from traditional therapies to cutting-edge medications that are truly changing lives in a world where treatments used to be very limited. This episode will help you stay up-to-date on treatments available as of May of 2026 for Alopecia Areata and it will also help you discover why early intervention has shown to lead to better results. Dr. Swanson reviews the most effective treatment options for both children and adults, including observation, topical therapies like Minoxidil and Clobetasol, intralesional steroids, vitamin D, Allegra, Dupixent, pulse Prednisone, low dose oral Minoxidil, contact sensitizers such as Dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB), Squaric Acid, Diphencyprone (DPCP), and JAK inhibitors. The episode also explores in detail the exciting new era of JAK inhibitors for alopecia areata, including Olumiant (baricitinib), Litfulo (ritlecitinib), Leqselvi (deuruxolitinib), and the upcoming approval of Rinvoq (upadacitinib). Dr. Swanson explains how these medications work, who may be a candidate, who may not be, required blood work and monitoring, common side effects, safety considerations, insurance challenges, and what patients can realistically expect when it comes to hair regrowth in general. You'll also hear Dr. Swanson’s valuable insights on popular hair loss remedies frequently discussed online, including rosemary oil, garlic, essential oils, capsaicin, PRP (platelet-rich plasma), red light therapy, laser therapy, cryotherapy, and PUVA treatment. Whether you're living with alopecia areata, caring for a child with hair loss, or a healthcare professional looking to stay current on the latest advances, this episode provides practical guidance, expert insights, and hope for patients navigating autoimmune hair loss. Keywords Dermatology, Hair Loss, Alopecia, Alopecia Areata, Alopecia Totalis, Alopecia Universalis, Diffuse Alopecia, Loose Anagen Alopecia, Traction Alopecia, Hair, Skin, Skin Expert, Dermatologist, JAK Inhibitors, Olumiant, Litfulo, Leqselvi, Rinvoq, Minoxidil, Hair Regrowth, Autoimmune Disease, Alopecia Totalis, Alopecia Universalis, Dupixent, Vitamin D, Allegra, Contact Sensitizers, Dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB), Squaric Acid, Diphencyprone (DPCP),  Links, Attachments NAAF: https://www.naaf.org [https://www.naaf.org/] Find a Pediatric Dermatologist near you: https://pedsderm.net/for-patients-families/find-a-pediatric-dermatologist/ [https://pedsderm.net/for-patients-families/find-a-pediatric-dermatologist/] Find an Adult Dermatologist near you: https://find-a-derm.aad.org/ [https://find-a-derm.aad.org/]  Chapters 00:00 Welcome, A Side Note About Breast MRIs  04:25 Alopecia Areata Treatments 04:52 Observation, Especially in Pediatric Patients 05:39 Topical Steroids at Bedtime and Topical Minoxidil in Morning 09:00 Kids Do Better On Treatments 10:07 Follow Up and Expectations From Treatment 11:30 Intralesional Steroids 13:40 AAD or Society for Pediatric Dermatology Lookup 14:50 Vitamin D and Allegra Over The Counter 17:00 Dupixent 20:00 Pulse Prednisone 21:05 Oral Minoxidil 23:15 Safety Label on Minoxidil 24:30 Contact Sensitizers 27:00 JAK Inhibitors & Alopecia Discovery 30:00 Quality of Life Improvement with Treatment 31:20 Olumiant 33:05 Litfulo  36:15 Leqselvi 37:00 Labs Checked With JAK Inhibitors 39:00 Safety Warnings 40:40 The 4 Cs 44:00 Coming Soon: Rinvoq 46:50 The Importance of JAK Inhibitors & Early Intervention 51:30 Natural Remidies and Social Media Trends 53:30 Excimer Laser & PUVA 55:00 Red Light 56:00 Conclusion Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2562582/fan_mail/new] The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always consult your  physician regarding your health.

Alopecia Areata 101

In this episode of the Skincredible Podcast, Dr. Lisa Swanson and Ana dive into the world of alopecia areata — an autoimmune condition that causes hair loss and affects both children and adults. From patchy scalp hair loss to loss of eyebrows, eyelashes, and even body hair, Dr. Swanson breaks down the many ways alopecia can present and why it’s so much more than a “cosmetic” condition. Dr. Swanson explains the science behind alopecia areata, including how the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, the connection to stress and other autoimmune diseases, and the differences between alopecia areata, alopecia totals, alopecia universalis, telogen effluvium, traction alopecia, and loose anagen syndrome. They also discuss why hair plays such an important role in identity, confidence, and emotional well-being — especially for kids. You’ll hear practical guidance on what people should know, common misconceptions, when blood work is helpful, and why internet searches can sometimes create unnecessary fear. Most importantly, this episode offers hope: today’s treatment options for alopecia areata are more effective than ever before. Whether you’re personally affected by hair loss, supporting a loved one, or simply curious about the science of hair and skin, this compassionate and informative conversation is packed with insight. Plus — stay tuned for the next episode, where Dr. Swanson dives deep into the newest treatments changing the future of alopecia care. Keywords Dermatology, Hair Loss, Alopecia, Alopecia Areata, Alopecia Totalis, Alopecia Universalis, Diffuse Alopecia, Loose Anagen Alopecia, Traction Alopecia, Hair, Skin, Skin Expert, Dermatologist Links, Attachments National Alopecia Areata Foundation (NAAF): https://www.naaf.org [https://www.naaf.org/] Chapters 00:00 Intro & Welcome 01:00 Alopecia Areata 02:48 Autoimmune conditions 05:16 How Alopecia Areata Presents 06:53 Diffuse Alopecia, Telogen Effluvium 12:50 Treatment Options Are More Abundant Now 13:40 Resolution vs. Treatment or Progression 15:50 Eyebrow Loss 16:55 Alopecia Areata Is NOT Cosmetic 18:25 Barbie & American Girl With Alopecia 20:15 Sudden Hair Loss, Ringworm (Tinea Capitis) 22:02 Joy From Treatment 24:25 Traction Alopecia 26:00 Disney Princess For A Day 27:13 Loose Anagen 30:15 Alopecia Recap 31:00 Thank You & Goodbye  Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2562582/fan_mail/new] The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always consult your  physician regarding your health.

Wrinkles, Brown Spots & Skin Cancer: Why Sun Protection Matters

In this episode of Skincredible, Dr. Swanson and Ana dive deep into one of the most important — and most misunderstood — topics in skincare: sun protection. May is Skin Cancer Awareness month, so what a better time to explore options for protection! From sunscreen myths and tanning bed dangers to mineral vs. chemical sunscreens, SPF confusion, vitamin D debates, and even viral social media trends, this episode breaks down what’s fact, what’s fiction, and what actually protects your skin. > Dr. Swanson explains how UV exposure can cause skin cancer, why childhood sun exposure matters so much, and how sun damage contributes to wrinkles, brown spots, and premature aging. The conversation covers sunscreen ingredients, favorite dermatologist-approved products, protective clothing, hats, sunglasses, spray tans, Heliocare supplements, and practical ways to enjoy the outdoors while still protecting your skin.Plus: funny vacation sunburn stories, risks of contracting viruses with tanning bed use, the return campaign for COTZ Silky Foam sunscreen, a discussion about Australia’s impressive sun safety culture, and why every parent should watch the Bluey episode “The Pool.”Whether you’re a sunscreen skeptic, skincare enthusiast, outdoor adventurer, or parent trying to protect your kids, this episode is packed with practical advice, science-backed information that feels conversational and easy to apply (no sunscreen pun intended). Topics Covered: > * Mineral vs. chemical sunscreen > * SPF myths and misconceptions > * Tanning beds and melanoma risk > * Sun protection for kids > * Vitamin D and sunlight > * Spray tans vs. tanning beds or sun tanning  > * Sun-protective clothing and hats > * Tips for skin cancer prevention > * Anti-aging benefits of sunscreen > * Heliocare and antioxidant support > * Social media misinformation > * Favorite dermatologist-approved products > > > Thanks for listening to Skin Incredible! Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who would benefit! > A SPECIAL DISCOUNT CODE: Swim Zip was kind enough to offer 20% off EVERYTHING on their website for our listeners. Use the code “skincredible” at checkout at www.SwimZip.com [http://www.swimzip.com/] or simply use this link to apply the code automatically: https://swimzip.com/discount/skincredible [https://swimzip.com/discount/skincredible] Additional links or resources  Trucker Article Reference [https://www.nejm.org/doi/abs/10.1056/NEJMicm1104059] Fortification of Foods with Vitamin D Article I [https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11677708/]; Article II [https://www.generalmills.com/news/press-releases/vitamind] Swim Zip [https://swimzip.com/discount/skincredible] AAD Shade Structure Grant  [https://www.aad.org/public/public-health/shade-structure-grants] Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sun Protection 00:44 Personal Dermatology Stories 02:00 Understanding Sun Damage 04:00 Sunscreen Types and Controversies 11:44 Importance of SPF 16:14 Preventing Wrinkles, Sun Spots 17:22 Importance of Vitamin D 19:40 Products with Added Vitamin D 10:45 Tanning Beds 24:20 Tanning Addictions 25:00 Herpes and Genital Warts Via Tanning 28:22 Other Ways to Protect : Hats 33:22 Other Ways to Protect : SPF Clothing 37:00 Other Ways to Protect : Sunglasses  40:00 Paramedian Forehead Flap 42:00 Sun In Australia 43:15 AAD Shade Structure Grant 43:45 Bluey The Pool 45:30 Social Media Whispers: Anal Sunning  47:50 Social Media Whispers: Hormone Disruption   48:20 Social Media Whispers: Sunblocks VS. Sunscreen  48:20 Social Media Whispers: Inflammation In the Skin 50:30 Heliocare 53:20 Social Media Whispers: Homemade Sunscreen 54:00 Social Media Whispers: Coral Reef 55:56 Humans Benefit From the Outdoors 57:26 Conclusion Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2562582/fan_mail/new] The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always consult your  physician regarding your health.

What An Emmy-Winning Meteorologist Wants You to Know About Weather & Climate Change

Most discussions about climate change focus on melting glaciers and rising sea levels, which are both important— but what about its direct impact on you? In this educational episode of Skincredible, Dr. Lisa Swanson is joined by Emmy Award–winning meteorologist Felicia Combs of The Weather Channel (Bio linked below). The conversation dives into the reality of climate change, and why we should all pay attention and hopefully do our part to help combat it. We will all be reminded of how COVID shutdowns temporarily improved air quality and what that tells us about our ability to impact our environments directly. Whether you're a climate skeptic, a health-conscious individual, or just curious about the future, Felicia offers practical and engaging insights you will learn from.  Felicia breaks down the difference between weather and climate in a way that really makes sense, she also explains how a changing climate may contribute to stronger hurricanes, shifting tornado patterns, intensifying droughts, and even increasing airplane turbulence. From wildfires in unexpected places like Georgia to rapidly intensifying hurricanes in recent history, this episode connects the dots between science, daily life, and the future of our planet. In this episode we also explore the human side of extreme weather—what happens after storms pass, how communities rebuild, and why climate impacts extend far beyond the headlines. Plus, we tackle common misconceptions, the role of misinformation, and what individuals can realistically do to make a difference. To wrap things up, Dr. Swanson and Felicia lighten the mood with some jokes about bunkers and a little bit of hope for what feels like a very daunting topic. This episode is eye-opening, informative, and empowering—and might just change the way you think about the forecast. Don’t forget: Wear your sunscreen—no matter the forecast. Keywords Dermatology, weather, climate change, storms, changing weather, hurricanes, greenhouse gasses, melting ice caps, melting glaciers, tornadoes, climate, fires, environment, environmental risk factors, extreme weather, extreme storms, The Weather Channel, Lisa Swanson, Felicia Combs Links, Attachments Felicia Combs BIO [https://www.weathergroup.com/personalities/felicia-combs] Chapters 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 01:45 Is Climate Change Real? 03:05 Connecting Weather & Long Term Trends 05:00 Warming & Fossil Fuels 06:15 When We Started Noticing Changes 07:20 Pandemic & Changes in Environment 10:44 Tornadoes, Wildfires, Droughts 14:27 How hurricanes are Formed 15:44 Storms Intensifying More Quickly 17:15 Lives Impacted Due to Major Natural Events 19:00 Meteorologists In Storms 22:00 Insurance, Trickle Down Effects 25:25 Felicia’s Journey to Becoming a Meteorologist 26:13 Preparation, Not Fear 28:00 Turbulence in Clear Air & Flights in General 29:44 Delta Meteorologist Partnership 31:02 Vermont, Safest Cities?  32:50 Climate Modeling, Predictions 35:32 Paradise Show, Super Tsunami, Ash 37:30 Cloud Seeding, Silver Iodide  39:40 CO2 Removal, Basalt, Seaweed, Kelp 42:30 Bluey Pitch 43:04 Thank You & Closing 43:28 Bunker 5 Things You Would Take Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2562582/fan_mail/new] The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always consult your  physician regarding your health.