Episode 4: Skin Care Trends: What's Real, What's Hype, and Why You're Confused

Bonus Episode- Accutane Explained- What it is, How it Works, and What You Need to Know

Accutane is one of the most effective and most misunderstood acne treatments available. In this special bonus episode of Real Skin Pro Education, we're taking a deep dive into isotretinoin, commonly known by its former brand name, Accutane. We'll discuss how this powerful medication works, who it may be appropriate for, what the treatment process looks like, common side effects, and the growing trend of low-dose or "microdosed" Accutane. You'll learn why isotretinoin is unique among acne treatments, how it targets all four major contributors to acne development, and what clients can realistically expect before, during, and after treatment. We'll also cover the iPLEDGE program, considerations for both male and female patients, and how estheticians can safely support clients undergoing treatment. Whether you're an esthetician, skincare professional, or someone considering isotretinoin for acne management, this episode will help you better understand the facts behind one of dermatology's most powerful acne treatments. In This Episode: • What Accutane (isotretinoin) is and how it works • Who is a candidate for isotretinoin treatment • The Accutane treatment process from start to finish • Understanding the iPLEDGE program • Why pregnancy prevention is critical during treatment • How isotretinoin affects male patients • Expected treatment timelines and outcomes • Common side effects including dry skin, dry lips, and increased sensitivity • Less common but important side effects that require monitoring • The relationship between Accutane and mental health • The rise of low-dose and microdosed Accutane • Professional treatment considerations for estheticians • Barrier-supporting ingredients that may help improve skin comfort during treatment • How to safely support clients receiving isotretinoin therapy Key Takeaway: Accutane isn't a miracle and it isn't a monster. It's a powerful medication that can significantly improve acne for the right candidate when used under proper medical supervision. Understanding the benefits, risks, and realities of treatment allows patients and skincare professionals to make informed decisions and provide appropriate support throughout the process. Connect with Lisa: Instagram: @real_skinpro lisa@realskinpro.com If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow esthetician, skincare professional, or anyone considering Accutane treatment. Real Skin Pro Education is dedicated to helping estheticians think differently, treat skin intentionally, and create real, lasting results. Follow along for more advanced skin education and insights. Instagram: @real_skinpro

Ep 9: Acne Through the Lifespan: Teen, Adult, Hormonal & Menopausal Acne

Ep 9: Acne Through the Lifespan | Teen, Adult, Hormonal & Menopausal Acne Acne doesn't look the same at every stage of life, and it shouldn't be treated the same way. In this episode of Real Skin Pro Education, we're exploring how acne changes throughout the lifespan, from teen acne and adult acne to hormonal acne, perimenopausal acne, and menopausal acne. We'll discuss the unique factors that drive breakouts at different ages, including hormones, oil production, inflammation, skin barrier health, stress, and lifestyle influences. You'll learn why a teenager with oily, congested skin may require a completely different treatment approach than a woman experiencing hormonal acne in her 40s or menopausal acne in her 50s. We'll also cover the professional treatments, ingredients, and home care strategies that can support healthier skin at every stage of life. Whether you're an esthetician, skincare professional, or someone struggling with persistent breakouts, this episode will help you better understand the root causes of acne and how to approach treatment based on the individual, not just the blemish. In This Episode: • What causes teen acne and the best treatment options • Why adult acne is often different from adolescent acne • The role hormones play in acne development • How perimenopause and menopause can affect the skin • Common acne patterns and locations by age group • Professional treatments for acne-prone skin • The best skincare ingredients for teen, adult, hormonal, and menopausal acne • Why barrier repair and inflammation management matter • A holistic approach to acne management throughout life Key Takeaway: Acne is not a one-size-fits-all condition. Understanding the unique drivers behind teen acne, adult acne, hormonal acne, and menopausal acne allows for more effective, personalized treatment and better long-term outcomes. Connect with Lisa: Instagram: @real_skipro lisa@realskinpro.com If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow skincare professional or someone navigating acne at any stage of life. Real Skin Pro Education is dedicated to helping estheticians think differently, treat skin intentionally, and create real, lasting results. Follow along for more advanced skin education and insights. Instagram: @real_skinpro

Episode 8: Why Your Acne Treatments Aren't Working

Episode 2: Why Your Acne Treatments Aren't Working Have you tried countless acne products, followed skincare trends, and spent hundreds of dollars on treatments, only to feel like your acne isn't improving? In this episode of Real Skin Pro Education, we're uncovering the most common reasons acne treatments fail and why more products don't always equal better results. You'll learn why product hopping, over-exfoliation, barrier damage, unrealistic expectations, and social media skincare advice may actually be keeping your acne stuck in a cycle of inflammation and frustration. We'll also discuss why successful acne management requires consistency, patience, and understanding the root causes behind breakouts. Whether you're an esthetician working with acne clients or someone struggling with persistent acne, this episode will help you understand what may be standing in the way of clear, healthy skin. In This Episode: • Why acne treatments often take longer than expected to work • The dangers of product hopping and constantly changing routines • How over-exfoliation can worsen acne • Signs of a damaged skin barrier • Why inflammation is a major contributor to breakouts • The difference between treating pimples and preventing acne • Why social media skincare advice isn't always the answer • How hormones, stress, lifestyle, and other root causes impact acne • Building an effective acne management strategy Key Takeaway: Acne management isn't about finding the strongest product or the latest trend. It's about creating a consistent, evidence-based plan that supports skin health and addresses the factors contributing to breakouts. Connect with Lisa: Instagram: @real_skinpro email: lisa@realskinpro.com If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow skincare professional or acne sufferer. Real Skin Pro Education is dedicated to helping estheticians think differently, treat skin intentionally, and create real, lasting results. Follow along for more advanced skin education and insights. Instagram: @real_skinpro

Episode 7: Acne 101: Why Acne Happens in the First Place

Acne is one of the most common skin conditions in the world, yet it's also one of the most misunderstood. In this Acne Awareness Month kickoff episode, we're diving into the science behind acne and exploring what actually causes breakouts in the first place. Contrary to popular belief, acne isn't caused by dirty skin, poor hygiene, or not washing your face enough. You'll learn about the four key factors involved in acne development, including excess oil production, abnormal skin cell shedding, bacterial imbalance, and inflammation. We'll also break down the different types of acne lesions, discuss common acne myths, and explore why acne can have such a significant impact on confidence and mental health. Whether you're an esthetician, skincare professional, or someone struggling with breakouts, this episode will give you a stronger understanding of what's happening beneath the surface and why effective acne management starts with education. In this episode, you'll learn: • What acne actually is • The 4 factors that contribute to acne development • The difference between blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts • Why acne is not caused by dirty skin • Common acne myths that need to go away • Why inflammation plays a major role in breakouts • How understanding acne leads to better treatment outcomes Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a fellow skincare enthusiast or skin professional. Connect with Lisa: Instagram: @real_skinpro #AcneAwarenessMonth #AcneEducation #AcneManagement #SkinScience #EstheticianEducation #RealSkinProEducation Real Skin Pro Education is dedicated to helping estheticians think differently, treat skin intentionally, and create real, lasting results. Follow along for more advanced skin education and insights. Instagram: @real_skinpro

Episode 6: Medical Grade Isn't a Real Category and Other Ingredient Terms

The skincare industry is filled with terms that sound scientific, regulated, and authoritative… but what do they actually mean? In this episode of Real Skin Pro Education, we’re breaking down the differences between OTC skincare, prescription products, professional skincare, and the marketing term “medical-grade.” We’ll discuss: • how the FDA categorizes skincare products • the difference between cosmetic claims and drug claims • why wording matters in the skincare industry • what makes a product OTC vs prescription • what “professional-only” actually means • why “medical-grade skincare” is not an official FDA-recognized category • and what truly matters when evaluating skincare products and formulations This episode is designed to help estheticians think more critically about industry terminology, marketing language, and the way we educate clients. Because healthy skin outcomes are built through formulation science, barrier support, and evidence-informed care… not just buzzwords. Instagram: @real_skinpro Real Skin Pro Education is dedicated to helping estheticians think differently, treat skin intentionally, and create real, lasting results. Follow along for more advanced skin education and insights. Instagram: @real_skinpro