Skinfluence with Dr. Dustin Portela

Episode 39: Skin Biopsies Explained — What Happens and Why You Might Need One

Hearing the word "biopsy" can make a lot of people nervous. In this episode, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Dustin Portela and physician assistant Austin Lee break down one of the most common procedures performed in dermatology: the skin biopsy. They explain why biopsies are done, when they're necessary, and why having one does not automatically mean you have skin cancer. The conversation walks through the different types of biopsies dermatologists perform, including shave biopsies, punch biopsies, and excisional biopsies. They also explain what the procedure actually feels like, how long it takes, and what patients can expect during and after the appointment. Dr. Portela and Austin also take listeners behind the scenes of what happens after a biopsy is performed. They discuss how samples are processed in pathology labs, how dermatopathologists analyze tissue under the microscope, and why your dermatologist's relationship with a skilled pathologist is so important for accurate diagnoses. They also cover healing timelines, scar prevention, when to worry about infection, and how biopsy results are delivered to patients. If you've ever delayed a dermatology appointment because you were worried about needing a biopsy, this episode will help demystify the entire process. Product of the Week Silicone Scar Gel Flawless SunShield Scar Gel with SPF BUNDLE DEAL After a biopsy or procedure, proper scar care can make a big difference in healing and cosmetic outcomes. Silicone scar gel helps support healthy healing while minimizing the appearance of scars. For areas exposed to sunlight, the Flawless SunShield adds SPF protection to help prevent post-inflammatory pigmentation and discoloration. Follow Us Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportela YouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDoc YouTube (Educational): @drdustinportela Pinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac

Guest Episode: The Identity Shift That Changes Men and Families with Matt Beaudreau

What if the biggest change you could make in your life isn't a tactic, a productivity hack, or a new routine, but a shift in identity? In this guest episode, Dr. Dustin Portela sits down with educator and Apogee Strong founder Matt Beaudreau to talk about leadership, fatherhood, discipline, health, and the power of becoming the kind of person who naturally lives the habits you want to build. Matt shares the philosophy behind Apogee Strong and Apogee Schools, a model focused on whole-family education, personal responsibility, entrepreneurship, and character development. The conversation explores why expectations matter more than rules, how kids rise to the standards we actually enforce, and why identity drives behavior far more than motivation ever will. They also dive into burnout among high-achieving men, the trap of tying self-worth to financial success, discipline versus punishment, how fathers can lead by example, and why consistency in health, marriage, and parenting compounds over time. From food choices to phone habits to servant leadership, this episode is about building strength in every area of life. If you are a father, a parent trying to raise strong kids, or a man who knows he can level up, this conversation is practical, challenging, and deeply applicable. About the Guest: Matt Beaudreau Matt Beaudreau is the founder of Apogee Strong and co-founder of Apogee Schools. He works with men, women, and families to build leadership, discipline, health, and responsibility through whole-family mentorship and education programs. Learn more at: https://apogeestrong.com Follow Apogee Strong: Instagram: @apogeeprogram Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportela YouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDoc YouTube (Educational): @drdustinportela Pinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac

Episode 38: Grandma's Skincare Advice — What Actually Works and What to Skip

Toothpaste on pimples. Lemon juice for dark spots. Egg whites for tightening. Butter on burns. We've all heard them. In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin break down the most common old-school skincare remedies passed down from grandmas, TikTok, and well-meaning family members and explain what actually works, what's harmless, and what can seriously damage your skin. They cover toothpaste for acne, lemon juice and apple cider vinegar for pigmentation, cucumbers for puffy eyes, turmeric masks, oatmeal baths, honey for wounds, aloe for burns, and even the dangerous rise of black salve. Along the way, they explain the science behind why some of these remedies gained popularity and why modern skincare products are often safer, more effective, and better regulated. This episode is part myth-busting, part science lesson, and part reality check. Just because something is "natural" doesn't mean it's safe. And just because it's been around for decades doesn't mean it works. If you've ever been tempted to DIY your skincare from your kitchen cabinet, listen to this first. Product of the Week: EltaMD Sunscreen EltaMD remains one of the most trusted sunscreen brands recommended in dermatology offices nationwide. Through the Air Skin Store, you can get 15% off EltaMD products for every purchase, not just your first order. Products ship directly from the manufacturer to ensure authenticity and quality. [Click here for EltaMD Sunscreen] Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportela YouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDoc YouTube (Educational): @drdustinportela Pinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac

Guest Episode: Therapy Without the Fluff with Trey Tucker

Mental health does not need to be complicated, soft, or filled with buzzwords. In this guest episode, Dr. Dustin Portela sits down with licensed therapist and author Trey Tucker to talk about what he calls "therapy without the fluff." Trey shares his straightforward approach to anxiety, purpose, relationships, and the challenges facing young men today. The conversation explores the mind-body connection, how emotional injuries shape adult behavior, why many men struggle with vulnerability, and how silence and self-awareness can completely change your mental health trajectory. They also dive into loneliness, modern social media pressures, fatherhood, purpose, and why chasing happiness often leads to less fulfillment. If you have ever felt overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure how to process what is happening inside your own head, this episode offers practical tools and grounded perspective. No jargon. No fluff. Just honest conversation about what actually helps. About the Guest: Trey Tucker Trey Tucker is a licensed therapist, speaker, and author of Tough Enough, a book focused on helping young men build emotional strength, purpose, and resilience. His work centers on straightforward, actionable mental health guidance designed to cut through noise and stigma. Find Trey and his book: Website: https://toughenoughbook.com Book: Available wherever books are sold Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportela YouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDoc YouTube (Educational): @drdustinportela Pinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac  

Episode 37: Psoriasis Explained — Triggers, Treatments, and What Actually Works

Psoriasis is more than just a rash. In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee break down what psoriasis really is, why it happens, and how treatment has completely changed over the past decade. They explain the difference between autoimmune and autoinflammatory disease, why psoriasis is driven by inflammatory signaling pathways like TNF alpha, IL-17, and IL-23, and how that inflammation affects more than just the skin. The conversation covers plaque psoriasis, guttate psoriasis, nail psoriasis, inverse psoriasis, erythrodermic psoriasis, and psoriatic arthritis, along with the serious cardiovascular and metabolic risks that can come with uncontrolled disease. Dustin and Austin also walk through treatment options from old school coal tar and phototherapy to modern topical medications, oral therapies, and the biologic injections that have transformed patient outcomes. They discuss what to expect with lab monitoring, why biologics are far safer than many people assume, and how these medications can be life changing for patients struggling physically and emotionally. They also touch on lifestyle factors including stress, alcohol, weight, diet, and sunlight, plus the powerful emotional toll psoriasis can take and why treating it often restores far more than just skin. If you or someone you love has psoriasis, this episode offers clarity, hope, and a roadmap for what modern treatment can look like. Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportela YouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDoc YouTube (Educational): @drdustinportela Pinterest: @DrDustinPortela Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac Product of the Week: Future Clinic Future Clinic is Dr. Portela's teledermatology platform, currently available in Idaho and New York with more states coming soon. Through a simple monthly subscription starting at $50, patients can receive real medical advice, prescriptions, and follow ups directly from Dr. Portela through the app. Spots are currently limited, so if you live in Idaho or New York and want direct access to dermatology care, you can sign up through this link.