A Dermatologist On Acne, Rosacea, Botox, & The BS That Is "Skincare Influencers"

Chelsea sits down with Dr. Shari Marchbein, an NYC board-certified dermatologist, to talk about skincare myths and misconceptions, and which popular products are actually worth shelling out for.
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[@giasas]

I'm not trying to start anything but it's a little obtuse to say "most people have health insurance" and then act like the people who don't have health insurance aren't worth mentioning or considering. I don't buy "fancy coffees", or fancy skincare products, or makeup, I still don't go to a dermatologist or have health insurance because I can't afford those things. I know skin conditions are a health issue so we should defer to the experts as we would on other health issues, but it's a little callous to just throw uninsured people to the wolves. Some of us need to know what we can do to mitigate our problems on our own because we can't afford to seek professional help. Gentle reminder that poor people exist ❤️

[@anamaniac]

I thought the same thing, who? What people have insurance? And even if they do, a specialist referral can still cost 100s.

[@heidibruneau9438]

and heath insurance doesn't mean free

[@axreason]

also, the people who watch TFD are mostly a part of the biggest uninsured group in American - young adults!

[@anamaniac]

I am a primary care nurse practitioner and can tell you with absolute certainty this is not the case "for most people". Her specific patient population probably does mostly have insurance or can pay out of pocket, but I would say that's not the case for most patients in general.

[@harmony323]

I noticed this too

[@ExiledStardust]

Don't appreciate the doctor's assumption that most people have access to a dermatologist or can afford one but are just choosing to waste their money on coffee, or something.

[@Deci_Bella]

I'd say by NYC standards that assessment is pretty accurate. I am reading through the comments now and it's actually shocking to me how far out of their way many people need to go to find a dermatologist. In NYC there is an abundance of everything and most people do have insurance.

[@rallyrally]

Ya in Canada there are so few derms, in most cases you need a doctor’s referral to see one and the wait is MONTHS

[@bbh7550]

@@Deci_Bella Yes, Derms are far and few between where I live. The few we have it might take 6 months if you are a new patient to get in.

[@VivianaDLima]

She literally said she recognized some people can't afford a derm but for the ones who can and are spending on those stuff... You people just wanna hate

[@ksen333]

yeah that really rubbed me the wrong way and I dont even live in america

[@ellesdankyoutube]

Interesting for a doctor to essentially say "skip your avocado toast and see a derm" and then turn around and say she regularly sees patients who are slathering on $500 of pointless moisturizer every day. There seems to be some cognitive dissonance here regarding the realities of who can and cannot afford to seek medical attention/fill prescriptions for skin issues. I think maybe lattes and manicures are not the problem for many people.

[@meridoughten9425]

I completely agree! When she was like "well, everyone has insurance" I was like oooooooooooookay doc lolololol

[@goconnor0304]

Doctors tell patients don't eat 'X' all the time but their patients will still eat it. She isn't going to stop treating patients who spend a lot of money on products like moisturizers. While those moisturizers don't do anything extra, they are not bad. There are people who swear by certain not bad products because it smells nice, it feels good to put on, etc. Her point was - if you have a skin problem, don't just think that avocado toast (and other things) will fix the problem, so see a dermatologist. That to me seems perfectly logical.

[@ellesdankyoutube]

@@goconnor0304 I was referring to her implication that everyone who says they can't afford to see a dermatologist is spending money on frivolous things that they could be spending on seeing a dermatologist (in the same vein as older generations blaming millennials for not being able to afford buying a house because they spend too much on "avocado toast" ), when the real issue is that many people don't have insurance or would still have to pay an exorbitant amount of money even with insurance.

[@oneworld24]

@@goconnor0304 what the comment meat is that this doctor is saying stop spending money on expensive habits and come see a dermatologist instead. Stop eating avocado toast is metaphor for what some people think that younger generations are spending frivolous money on. Like stop drinking lattes and buy a house instead. But no amount of lattes can add up to a million dollar down payment.

[@Artofcarissa]

Those are two different things, I go to a derm and a lot of the stuff they prescribe to me doesn’t cost that much and actually costs less than bougie skincare products promoted by influencers

[@DELLRS2012]

Ouch. I understand pressing the importance of seeing a doctor, but assuming people cannot afford a derm because they are spending money on nails and coffee? Damn so out of touch. We are not going to mention the huge shortage of doctors right now? I have to drive 1.5 hours away to the nearest derm who is accepting to new patients. Others who have established derms have appointments booked out to 7/2023. This person and channel can be soooooo out of touch

[@borkbork4124]

Yeah, I went once and it was 100 bucks with my insurance and I had a chemical burn and they said their earliest opening was in a week, otherwise I can spend EVEN MORE money on an ER visit. I sat around for a week putting aloe and creams on it for the pain, and soon the red faded dark and started peeling. It looked like that when I saw the derm and the visit was like 5 minutes bc she said there was nothing that could be done…..the kicker is I had to learn about what it was by my primary care physician, she explained to me what can cause it and how it will look, and how to treat the affected skin if it does happen again.

[@bioniclohan7291]

Yeah she lost me on that one. I love Chelsea but that was WAY out of touch.

[@theflamingpopsicle19]

I could feel the palpable tension in the room bc Chelsea has definitely made comments in the past against what the Derm said, so I wouldn’t pin that comment on to the channel itself because she’s definitely spoken against that type of mentality. I think she did try to steer it towards “well the cost of one expensive skincare product would actually pay for a derm visit, so don’t spend the money on that expensive skincare you don’t even really know you need and instead invest it with a professional”. Expensive skincare can go anywhere from $70-$120 so yeah…that could pay for a visit. She also didn’t say you can’t afford BECAUSE you’re doing these other things, it seemed more like she was saying if you were to cut back for like one or two days, technically what you’d spend could be reallocated in your budget to seeing a derm.

[@missmackify99]

I think the point they were trying to make is that if you already spend thousands on skincare, you may as well spend that money on a dermatologist instead. So this only applies to people who can clearly afford it.

[@laurakirwan999]

my realistic expectation is that I will never be able to afford to see a dermatologist.

[@paillette2010]

I love how a six figure MD is reminding us we are spending too much on coffee, uber, and getting our nails done. The cringe if for _real_.

[@Deci_Bella]

I am a New Yorker too, and I'd say by NYC standards that's actually pretty spot-on.

[@thefrancophilereader8943]

I genuinely wish this dermatologist would distinguish between actual skin issues that require professional care and body dysmorphia caused by TikTok and Instagram.

[@TheLaurenKat]

I thought she did with the comment about sebaceous filaments?

[@Goat.Cheese]

A lot of middle class and most low-income people cant afford to see a dermatologist on a regular basis (or possibly ever). What world do these people live in?

[@orangeujealous6684]

This conversation was very interesting. Thank you, TFD!! I learned a lot and I feel better about reducing my skincare to less than 5 steps. 😂 3:27 Adult female acne 6:14 Skin advice on social media 8:00 Genetics and setting realistic expectations 12:54 Managing skin conditions 15:38 Health insurance and affordability 18:03 Legitimacy of “high end” products 22:24 The basics (3-step routine) 25:36 Cosmetic aspects of derm services 34:20 Filters and mental health 44:16 Preventing wrinkles 47:27 Using Botox 50:25 Hormonal acne 54:49 Rosacea and redness 56:11 ‘Natural’ makeup 58:26 Lasers to reduce capillaries and brown spots 1:00:34 Break outs in a specific area 1:01:50 Fills and loose skin 1:04:57 Viral products that are BS 1:08:02 Face yoga (Chelsea had to ask! Lol) 1:09:02 Large pores

[@saschamayer4050]

Thanks for the timestamps! 😎👍

[@batesi]

thanks for the timestamps!

[@kathr3477]

I do like her, but I don't agree that people who can't afford medical visits are able to just cut out lattes and manicures. If you can't afford to go to a doctor's appointment, you probably aren't getting Ubers to work. And even if you have health insurance, many plans are high deductible and it will be very expensive still.

[@whitneyschmitney]

That part was pretty frustrating. Those of us on Medicaid (or don’t even have health coverage) couldn’t tell you the last time we’ve spent money on a latte or a manicure. And not even to mention the referrals process with insurance which can make it so difficult. And then to end with “I do take *some* insurance” lol. Pretty out of touch but otherwise a nice interview.

[@donamitra2958]

And not all might cover derm appointments

[@pretty_saucy]

I cringed so hard. That was so upsetting.

[@maryohmaryoh]

I have increasingly come to feel that TFD is a channel for the privileged that fronts it is not.

[@my_name_is_rhyme]

Even if you can afford insurance, who the hell can afford the deductible? That's what I've never understood. Even if I can spend $400 a month, where am I supposed to come up with another $3k to spend to meet my deductible to even USE the $400 premium I'm spending. Wtf is wrong with America

[@sarahepton1523]

I'm kind of surprised you didn't jump all over her with the "well most of us have health insurance! Just give up your manicures and lattes if you think you can't afford a dermatologist!" line of reasoning as this seems like the entitled cluelessness you usually rail against. I have decent insurance, and we make good enough money but I STILL have to decide every time there's something maybe wrong where it fits in my money priorities. I need a colonoscopy, which cuts into our emergency fund, which cuts into our automatic retirement savings. Plus I have to schedule it to impact our vacation/sick leave the least. This is with decent insurance. Thos is privilege. It was way different when I made way less money and had a huge deductible. Plus the cost of medications... good luck getting insurance to pay for Retin A. Young women are the most likely to have skin issues that affect their health and psychological well-being while having the fewest resources to deal with it. And the "Just give up your manicures" hit me like the bullshit boomer advice to stop getting Starbucks and avocado toast so you can buy a house. This advice is truly only good for established, older folks with disposable income. What should a young freelancer with no insurance or a ridiculous deductible do? What if your insurance doesn't cover dermatologist visits? What then?

[@sarahepton1523]

Oh also: for those of you in high per capita states, I know insurance is relatively affordable. I live in a rural area and my insurance is 1900 a month. That's market value. That's an economical plan. I was shocked when I found only 20or so plus Americans live without insurance cause I figured that would be the norm for freelancers or anyone with a contract job that didn't include insurance. And then talking to my friends on East Coast (BEAST COAST!!!) cities with better insurance than I have for 180 a month... ACA failed rural communities. I'm not saying it was bad policy, but it failed this one market. 1900 is rent plus a car payment around here. If you don't have employer provided health insurance or a 6 figure income, you're fucked. So don't TALK to me about health insurance, Ms., "Oh yes I take SOME health insurance " lady.

[@Talisa3636]

Outside if her professional expertise, she is pretty out of touch. I will never forget her Israel vs Palestine fiasco.

[@LindsPatz10]

Not into this guest, TFD. Why would it be negative to understand what a sebaceous filament is? I learned about these at ten years old in 2001 by researching acne and skin concerns on the internet, not TikTok. That’s condescending as fuck and if a doctor lectured me when asking about terminology with a “little talk”, I’d leave their office.

[@mostly.skincare2429]

While she makes valid points, there's a lot I don't agree with. Firstly, being able to see a dermatologist in the first place is a very privileged thing because most people can simply not afford it. She also kinds of pokes fun at online skin influencers because they're giving broad/general advice on skin + skincare, while she does the exact same on her Instagram account. There are lots of well educated and knowledgeable people that help to give helpful advice to those who can't afford a consultation, plus lots of people going through a skincare journey and giving tips to other people. Some people enjoying exploring skincare and that's okay. Plus for me personally, what I've learnt online has helped my skin so much more than any dermatologist ever did tbh.

[@borkbork4124]

To your first point, around minute 17:00 she plays the “save money by not buying coffee” card. Maybe it is because she is in New York, and I am a Midwestern broke college student (meaning I only eat out or get a coffee when it is on my parents dime), buuuuuut I visited a derm once and it cost me over 100 dollars with insurance for them to tell me they could not do anything at that point. I called the day I got the burn, and their first opening was in a week. It was a chemical burn, and if I looked it up online what it looked like and that nothing can be done once the burn is there, I could have saved myself time, money and heartache. I drove over an hour for the closest derm that was in network and I live in a metro area. It was a new body spray that gave me the burn and I have been terrified to use any ever since. What a fun take it was when she said most people have insurance. That is vague to say and misleading, since my visit with insurance still costed me 100 bucks.

[@idontwannasay16]

Well educated is very different from an actual doctor though. As far as insurance goes, yes even with insurance, dermatologists can still be very expensive. The point she is trying to make is if you will be spending all that money on lots of products as a way to self-medicate, you might as well just save all that money and consult with a doctor.

[@saraha1392]

A derm isn’t always a great approach either I’ve had a derm recommend the strongest retinol prescription and using neutrogena acne wash at the same time! My skin was fried

[@meridoughten9425]

I really appreciated this episode! BUT I just wish we could have had a more inclusive conversation... this video kind of reinforces the idea in the derm/skin industry that a person is either an internet "expert" with no actual training or experience with skincare or treating clients or an MD/DO specializing in dermatology. The reality is that dermatologists and plastic surgeons rely on NPs, PAs, nurse-injectors, medical assistants, and medically trained aestheticians and laser technicians to provide care, and those of us who are not doctors STILL have valuable knowledge and skills. In fact, most of the time it is the nurse or aesthetician who spends the most time with the client. We deserve better than being written off as uninformed, not valuable, or simply invisible in our own industry. Please remember there is almost always an entire TEAM at work when you are receiving medical care and all team members are important ❤

[@aprilmouse8793]

💯

[@emmasol523]

I don't know about in US but in my country some of the doctors work with specific brands and promote them instead of explaining. I know some of the products they recommend have filler ingredients and excessive amount of alcohol etc.

[@meridoughten9425]

@@emmasol523 yeah that can certainly happen in the US, as well. Physicians & clinic medical directors are the ones who decide what product line(s) a facility will carry and sometimes they choose well and sometimes they choose....not-so-well 😆

[@DeadlyDeadlyBeees]

44:57 sunscreen recommendations - Wear sunscreen every day - At least 30 SPF, make sure it says "broad spectrum" to protect you from UVA and UVB - Reapply every 2 hours - She uses a powder sunscreen that can be applied over makeup. Brands she names are ISDIN, Supergoop, Colorescience - She uses a tinted one

[@rallyrally]

FYI in Canada there are very few derms and in most cases you need a doctor’s prescription to see one. Actually getting to a derm can take months of waiting. And if you go to a private clinic, then it’s obviously out of pocket and still it will take you a long time to even get an appointment.

[@alanathebespectacled]

Yeah it took me a veeeeery long time to get a half decent derm who put me on a treatment plan that worked (the first one sucked and was way more focused on the cosmetic component of her clinic). I think GPs need more education on common skin conditions to bridge the gap.

[@weatherby551]

Skincare is such a nuanced topic. I agree with Chelsea and the guest that it's important to understand our skin is an organ and that acne and other concerns are medical issues. That being said, I don't think people should be shamed for self-diagnosing or exploring the world of skincare on their own. I have had acne since I was 11 years old (I'm now 31). I have seen multiple dermatologists during that time and some were better than others. As the guest in the episode acknowledged, sometimes our healthcare providers don't do a great job of listening to us or don't know how to best address our issues. Of course finding another provider is an option, but it can be just as emotionally and financially draining looking for different dermatologists as it can trying different skincare products. Over the years, I've been prescribed basically every acne medication that exists aside from accutane, and many of them did not work. For me, learning about my own body and what the common treatments are for my issues (including but not limited to acne/skincare concerns) has been empowering. And trying different products to manage my health concerns at home has helped me feel more in control. I still see a dermatologist regularly and use prescription medications, yet I also use skincare that my dermatologist hasn't explicitly recommended but that I can tell works well for me. And I watch videos and read and learn about my skin, (including about sebaceous filaments). I don't think it has to be one or the other. Not to mention the fact that dermatologists who sell products like Elta MD, Colorscience, AlphaRet, Skinceuticals, etc. are still selling you cosmeceutical products (and often much more expensive ones than what you could get from a place like Sephora, Ulta, Dermstore, etc.). So having a dermatologist-suggested routine doesn't automatically exempt you from the capitalist skincare machine.

[@ivanaandric5703]

TRY ACCUTANE! It saved my life!!! I was 30, had EXTREMELY oily skin, My derm. said "This will cure your acne and seborea (oily skin) forever, but you might get depressed" 🤣😂😂🤣😂😂🤣🤣😂. God, I never laughed so much in my life then when I left his office, I thought he was CRAZY. I said to my self if roaccutane can do what he said it can, it will SAVE MY LIFE, not make me deppresed! And that's exactly what happened. I took two pills a day for four month (after one month acne and seborea was ALL GONE, and I took the accutane for aditional 3 month just to make at a perment change, and I never had Acne or seborea in my life again! I'm 44 now, married with 2 kids and have no wrinkles on my face because of my genetically oilyer skin type - nothing like before, now it's not visable, it just prevents wrinkles (I look like late 20's, to early 30's because of that). Oh, plus I use NO over the counter (now none) products at all (face wash excluded)!

[@Deci_Bella]

Yeah, I myself read many books on skincare because I've also had acne since before I was a teen, and it was an unpleasant surprise to me that many dermatologists actually knew a lot less about skincare than I did.

[@nonameface90]

@@ivanaandric5703 good for you it worked in a long haul. What may have saved your life, could ruin others. Accutane is NOT an acne panaceum for everyone - 2 rounds and almost 2 years on it myself and everything came back, with force. People REALLY should put critical thinking and research over desperation when it comes to Accutane. And DEFINITELY not to lowball potential side effects of it (mine was massive hair loss, with its repercussions happening to this day). Personally, I consider painting Accutane as 'fix-it-all' cure as false, damaging and tone deaf. But it's just me.

[@rockpaperlazer]

A lil disappointed with how dismissive the conversation was about the $$$ of seeing a derm. Guest is a doc with a lot of disposable income and seems like they see patients in a similar situation. Many Americans are uninsured or under-insured and I haven't met anyone for whom seeing a specialist is a just a copay. High deductible plans are the norm now. Skincare is seen as luxury so scraping money together for a cardiologist--something that might kill you is just different to most people. Buying a $10 cleanser is not comparable. I understand this might be directed at people buying thousands of dollars of skincare products, but a lot of people view skincare social media as their only way of accessing knowledge.

[@harmony323]

This!

[@goconnor0304]

I don't disagree with what you wrote. But I think the point is that if you have real skin problems, and you are spending money on what you find online or Tik-Tok etc, you can actually harm yourself more because that products(s) might be harmful to you or at the least not help. I remember a few teenagers I knew when I was growing up that had major acne issues who tried Clearasil and other products at first (yes I am that old)- they eventually had to go to a dermatologist and obviously their parents paid for it or the insurance took care of it. But that was many years ago. Now teenagers / young adults may rely on social media to fix the problem. Insurance has changed and some do not cover dermatologists and other specialists and yes, a number of people do not have any or are under-insured. But if you have an issue that will not clear up, you need to see a specialist, so yes you have to save up for them and stop spending that money on the products. Is it easy - no. Also social media can also be sooo confusing. One person says one thing and another person says another. (And this isn't just for skin products.) So the information may or may not be useful or helpful.

[@ExiledStardust]

This. Chelsea likes to talk a big game about economic inequality but targets so much of her content at rich people.

[@ems9616]

+

[@imthenextUSpresident]

Dr. Dray here on KZbin gives out amazing advice with affordable OTC recommendations. She also isn't dismissive about people's financial states by telling them to just stop with the avocado toast like the derm in this video....

[@gracenagel]

LOVE Dr. Dray! Her advice has helped my skin a lot.

[@sa-man-tha]

@@gracenagel She is amazing. I follow her on every single platform so as not to miss out on her advice.

[@dianarusnov292]

Dr. Sheerene Idriss too. She's one of my favorites. And Dr. Sam Bunting was probably the first derm I ever watched on KZbin. She was doing videos before it was cool. I seriously don't get the point of this? Coming on social media to dismiss people's financial states and their desire to be informed. This wasn't a productive conversation in the least.

[@imthenextUSpresident]

@@dianarusnov292 Yes! Both those doctors are also ones I follow. However, I find many of the products they recommend aren't as affordable as recommendations from Dr. Dray. But all three dermatologists are great for learning about skin and for free education on skin health!

[@dianarusnov292]

@@imthenextUSpresident I agree Dr. Dray offers affordable options and has changed so many peoples' skin! Love her as well. But I personally stick to cruelty-free products apart from my prescriptions and the LA Roche Posay B5 Baume (I just can't find anything that heals peeling or burning or wounds like that one) Love CeraVe and and Neutrogena and the rest of La Roche, but just not drawn to them, and I know she mostly talks about those. However I do love that she uses quite a bit of K Beauty too, and she is good about including cruelty-free options. I honestly love how we have a wealth knowledge and each derm has their own approach, and they are not as judgemental or unrealistic as this lady.

[@tukamousa9025]

With all due respect, I really didn’t like her response to the fear of filler question, minimizing the concern to just people who are turned off by overfilled celebrities. For a lot of people, it’s more about hesitancy to start on an addictive path of maintaining volume we were only meant to have 20 years ago. Also studies are showing that filler can stay in the face for YEARS after someone has stopped injecting, which is concerning. At least there is an enzyme that breaks it down, right? While that’s true, filler spreads around the face over time, so injecting the enzyme where the filler was placed still wouldn’t dissolve all of it because you’d still have the filler that spread around. I learned a lot of info about fillers from an Australian dermatologist who actually participated in some of this research: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jIeQh5Wvg82ti68 Obviously, this is an elective procedure, and people are free to make their own choices, but to selectively not mention certain pieces of information like that leads to patients making misinformed decisions.

[@donamitra2958]

Dermatologist consultations are v v expensive.. so lets acknowledge that as well

[@lunamiku4166]

That actually depends on where you live since in my place it definitely doesn't cost $100+ to get a consultation The treatments or medications on the other hand can definitely be costly though

[@jontobin5942]

I'm a 32 year old man and the descriptions of instagram filters and other ways that women have a constant stream of societal reminders about their imperfections just hit me right in the feels. Men get some of that too but not anywhere close to the degree that you all do.

[@joseph2ne]

Yes, a year or two ago I started listening to dermatologists on KZbin and I was so surprised that they were recommending CeraVe, Eucerin, etc. The KZbin beauty community is always recommending super expensive products and saying how they are basically the holy grail. I also used to buy into the “natural” products, too. After learning what is in the products and how irritating the ingredients can be, I started using products with no perfumes or essential oils and what a difference for me. CeraVe’s packaging isn’t as pretty and doesn’t promise magical results, but it sure does work. Also- the natural deodorant has baking soda and literally burned the crap out of my armors after a week or two! My skin was raw and burning.

[@allergiccookies6735]

its so hard to find any skin products that don't have perfume!! that is so bad for you get it out of all the soap agh!

[@a.z.p.]

I'm in my mid-30s. The last day when I had no acne on my body, I was 8. Just like you said - acne has been one of the defining features of my life. There were decades of my life when it was at its worst where people just wouldn't look at me very much (not to mention the requisite grade-school bullying). When people who clearly have good/regular skin recommend obvious solutions or something that worked for them for what is a whole different order of magnitude of acne, it's kind of like someone telling a person with clinical depression that what helps you when you feel sad is to "cheer up and express gratitude." You're basically talking about two completely different worlds. Really appreciate this episode! I hope people become a lot more thoughtful about the way they talk about skincare.

[@colleenruf7139]

This sounds like a bit of a sales pitch for things we don’t need

[@interlocution6619]

I understand where the Dermatologist is coming from, BUT; Cosmetologists and Estheticians also know a lot of the terms she finds problematic. Though not medical, WE are also trained in a certain level of skin issues and treatments, and likely know the terms. It is possible that some of the people using this language got it from a licensed skin professional. That said, We also encounter a large number of people misusing the vocabulary and doing things that are wrong for their skin on the advice of non-professional influencers. Just please don't count out other licensed professionals who are educated in the skin completely. Though we are not Doctors ourselves, we do respect the Doctors and often refer clients TO Dermatologists for issues we are unqualified to treat in the salon setting.

[@oliviakinter179]

Have you interviewed a fitness instructor and their take on influencer workout or lifestyle culture? That would be fascinating

[@thefinancialdiet]

We haven't yet, great suggestion!

[@brezilll]

I had the same thought listening to this! The fitness influencer industry is a mystery to me. I cannot tell which advice is good or bad.

[@-natmac]

Omg yes! Meg Squats would be an interesting guest! She knows the social media landscape but her videos are science based.

[@axreason]

Dr. Marchbein sounds very out of touch to me. Most people are not getting their nails done on a monthly basis, if even at all. they're not getting coffee out on a regular basis, most certainly not taking any taxis! and most people are underinsured, many not insured at all! millions and milliions of americans don't even see their primary care doctor yearly due to co-pays, despite health troubles. the cost of getting a cleanser, moisturizer, sunscreen and/or a AHA/BHA/niacinamide at the drugstore on your own every 3 months can't compare to the cost of seeing a dermatologist. now if people are exclusively using Drunk Elephant and other expensive brands, that's a different story. but most aren't, and it sounds to me like she's been living in an echo chamber for a long time.

[@shockwave.pulsar]

As someone with rosacea and acne-prone skin, I wish I had seen a dermatologist as a teenager vs early 30s. So much money would’ve been saved and self esteem improved.

[@LauraPalmerD]

She says we should go for the 'wow, your botox looks great' look, yet, she absolutely has the 'wow, you botox and fillers look great look'. She is also very out of touch with the finances of most people (understandable, she is a rich, PRIVATE dermatologist who works with rich people who pay out of pocket... Very disappointed that Chelsea didn't steer the conversation better.

[@bbh7550]

Yes all these things are very expensive for the average income earner. Also you must keep up with these things if you want to maintain the results. It's a big financial commitment.

[@cjko100]

I know, she definitely looks botoxed and like she has a lot of filler. I wouldn’t trust her to give me either based on her look and perception of what looks natural.

[@lilli9364]

strongly agree with many people here, i do wish chelsea would have challenged her guest on the avocado toast-ification of not being able to afford healthcare. i hope if you watched this and have acne or any chronic skin condition, it just confirms that it’s not your fault. some conditions require more intense intervention to clear up, no matter how many otc products you buy or what you cut out of your diet or how much water you drink. i spent my adolescence and early 20s using every otc product and antibiotic to try to clear my acne, and it was exhausting and always felt like i was doing something wrong, being lazy, not buying the right products, etc etc etc. accutane is what worked for me, and if you don’t have insurance and/or can’t afford to see a derm, i’m not the person to help you but i do recommend we start by providing comprehensive healthcare for everyone in the US.

[@antoniahein3565]

I kind of don’t appreciate her comparing seeing a dermatologist to seeing your gp. As far as I’m aware, acne and rosacea aren’t going to significantly reduce your quality of life outside of self esteem issues, which I’m not trying to downplay, but for that mental health might be a factor as well. If you’re fairly okay with the way your skin looks and you’re not in any pain, it’s not something you NEED to see a dermatologist for. Sure, if you spend hundreds of dollars on skin care products it might be a good idea to see one instead if possible, but if it’s not a massive priority then I don’t think it’s a necessity

[@salamannader]

...Maybe next time have DermAngelo out of Brooklyn on instead. I feel like he would be a good choice if you decided to do another episode with a dermatologist and I would be more inclined to watch. I was only able to get through the beginning of this video before I decided that I don't think I could listen to the whole thing. While seeing a derm can be a really important step for people with skin conditions that need it- it felt really off base of her to basically only focus on "not having a derm in the area" vs how expensive copays are even with insurance (which covers very little of what is deemed cosmetic and not "medically necessary") and considering that there are literally millions of uninsured Americans across the country that can't afford even basic medical care- let alone a several hundred dollar dermatology appointment + scripts. After looking at the comments on this video about the blue light opinion she has as well...no thank you. I know the channel itself/Chelsea doesn't share those same opinions necessarily but this was a miss for me (and clearly a lot of other people).

[@wjbluv]

Just decided to go the derm last month. SUPER hard to get into one of the 2 in my area. I won’t even get to see the MD for at least 3 appointments, but I hope that it goes well. Opportunity to see a derm is low, access due to few providers, poor transportation, and the fact I work 2 jobs make schedules difficult(Not to mentions a lot of doctors not just derms in my area don’t like to work 5 days a week). Not affording the co-pay is probably the lowest barrier to getting into a dermatologist.

[@valstreif3251]

This motivated me to make a dermatologist appointment to check on a mole that I've been putting off. Thank you!

[@GabrielaFrancescaCarrillo]

What perfect timing! Watching this on my Lyft ride to my appointment with my new derm 👀

[@lunarose9]

I didn't appreciate the idea that people can just cut out ubers and coffee. I am also a subscriber in the uk. Dermatologists are not covered for the vast majority of people. I want to go to a dermatologist but right now it's just not possible.

[@TheBrownieQueen]

The idea of pursuing a medical solution to something that is, for most people, an aesthetic concern is hugely insidious to me. The comparison with life threatening health conditions like diabetes is frankly just disrespectful. Of course we all live in a society and all that and no one individual should be responsible for deconstructing beauty norms, but using the association between skin issues and mental health issues as a justification for trying to medically altering natural skin rather than increasing acceptance of imperfect skin is a step backwards in my opinion.

[@thatjillgirl]

I think this is a little dismissive of the way some people really do struggle with body image related to a particular area. Of course we would all love to never feel self-conscious about our appearance at all, but that simply isn't the reality for most people. And it doesn't help that other people won't forget your appearance, even if you do. I dealt with cystic acne for years. I struggled in vain to treat it myself. Nothing worked, and I finally tried just living with it and accepting that I had acne-prone skin. I did okay at this sometimes, but then eventually someone else would comment on my acne. It would send my self-esteem right back down to the bottom again. You tell yourself that nobody is paying attention to your face anyway, only to be proven wrong. It's not a good feeling, and people with skin issues have that feeling fairly often. But even besides that, acne is one hundred percent a medical issue. It is NOT purely cosmetic. It doesn't just "look bad." It can be painful, it can be scarring, and it can open your face skin up to worse infections. I don't see how that isn't a medical issue. Yes, in the grand scheme of things, acne is almost certainly not going to kill you, but that doesn't make it any less medical in nature or any less worthy of pursuing medical treatment.

[@antoniahein3565]

@@thatjillgirl both of you have a point imo. For some people, it certainly is an issue that has a massive impact on their mental health. But it’s still weird to say that seeing a derm should be prioritized on the same level as seeing other health professionals for EVERYONE. And saying stuff like “breaking out once a week is way too much” is not helping. Instead, she could have said “if you feel bad because of your skin, we can work on that” or something. She really gave off the vibe of someone who would judge people for not “putting in the work” of getting “good” skin

[@NameName-lv4lu]

As a guy with acne, eczema, psoriasis and about 5 other chronic skin conditions, I find this conversation insufferable. Acne " being one part of many parts of the cause of depression" is a fucked up thing for a dermatologist to say. Sorry. No. Don't sell yourself as a cure for mental health issues, you're a skin doctor. Maybe it's not skin issues leading to depression, rather it's the fucked up culture we have about looks and perfection and hierarchy and how skin care is a mark of wealth and job status is what's leading to depression, scoetal judgements. and you're giving credence to that fucked up culture by saying "acne is a major world issue and if we aren't perfect, we get depressed." No I'm not here for this bs

[@thatjillgirl]

This is a weird interpretation. I didn't hear her claim anywhere that acne is THE cause of depression. But for many people, acne definitely can create a deep feeling of low self-esteem that results in anxiety or depression. It absolutely can affect people's mental health, as can many appearance-related things (hair loss, other skin conditions, visible disabilities, etc.). If that isn't influencing YOUR mental health, that's all well and good, but that doesn't mean that that isn't a very real experience for some people.

[@NameName-lv4lu]

@thatjillgirl seems manufactured to me. A skin condition like eczema or acne or hair loss in no way compares to physical disabilities and I couldn't help but feel this dermatologist pushes this notion so freely because she is deep into the profit/social media/cosmetic alteration side of dermatology because they're "ugly, and ugly causes depression" and she talks about thay extensively here, rather than dermatology as a field to treat skin conditions which cause physical pain and irritation, which if bad enough can be depressing for sure. Maybe she's just short handing thay explaination, but I didn't hear her talk much of the physical pain aspect, she delved pretty deep into incoherent stuff about ego and portrays social pressures for good skin as more important than it should be.

[@thatjillgirl]

@@NameName-lv4lu Well again, I'm glad that you do not personally suffer any mental health issues as a result of a cosmetic concern that causes you great self-consciousness, but many people do, and if medical treatment can help them feel more confident, then I'm not sure why we would act like that's some sort of scam.

[@aurora4218]

So most fillers are made of hyaluronic acid. It *can* diffuse in as little as 6 months, but it usually lasts wayyyy longer. Some patients have small amounts of hyaluronic acid remaining nearly a decade after their last procedure. While hyaluronase dissolves this filler, it can leave your skin stretched and deflated where the filler used to be. While this is typically only an issue after using too much HA. But "too much" is different for everyone, and for each part of your face. Filler is 100% a medical procedure with life-long affects. Your doctor can help you mitigate risks, but it is still a medical procedure and needs to be treated like one.

[@rebekka2921]

It’s quite elitist to say everyone should see a derm. If you’re spending 100s of dollars a year on skincare in vain, then sure, maybe better luck with a derm. But assuming that everyone does in fact already spend 100s of dollars on skincare in vain, or just have poor budgeting skills, is what’s rubbing us the wrong way.

[@LauraSomeNumber]

My problem with derms is that they go in too hard, and advise foaming cleansers for people with acne. It did nothing but make my skin even worse. Caroline Hirons saved my face.

[@lastpolarbearcub]

She promotes st. Ives scrubs as a sponsor on her Instagram - these are really dangerous and unnecessary. Please host Dr. Dray next time for a derm with standards who is not filled up to the brim with fillers and oblivious that she has the fake look she derides.

[@Sky-Child]

At 31 my acne and eczema cleared for the most part because of something the doctor told my mother to do for me when I was 13 but she didn't do. Cut out dairy. The hormones in milk that help baby cows to grow are terrible for my skin (and a whole host of other body issues) Not pushing, just sharing what worked for me in the hopes that someone might try and find it works for them

[@dianarusnov292]

"The fact that you know what a sebaceous filament means is a problem." This is giving serious narc vibes. "It's wrong for the patient to come in educated because I'm the know-it-all doctor and I know better." Being advocates for our own health and informing ourselves is a problem now? If that's the case, this dermatologist doesn't need to be on any social media. And The Financial Diet doesn't need to exist. I'm sure it would be great if we could just get our education straight from the source and go to a dermatologist or a financial advisor, but some people only have the means to afford internet, so sadly that may have to do. There are many wonderful, professional dermatologists (even skincare influencers) who work to clear up myths and don't shame people for wanting to learn about their bodies. If you're going to use a platform, keep in mind your audience and why you're there in the first place. And BTW they ARE called sebaceous filaments. Patient was informed correctly. 👌

[@pip5284]

TRULY.

[@thatjillgirl]

She wasn't saying that they're not called that? Or that it's bad for patients to know things? She's saying that patients sometimes come to her with a "problem" that they've only identified as a problem because they've seen people online talking about it as if it's a problem, but it may just be a totally normal thing.

[@saraha1392]

I would say it’s important to really vet your derm. I had a derm who recommended a course of action to address my acne so aggressively that my skin was fried. I now go to a med spa and see a Np and esthetician and my skin looks better than ever!

[@rn2787]

I think that most influencer's advice or reviews are not meant to address medical issues just like TFD's content is not meant as financial advice for everyone and it's not meant to replace a financial advisor. Unfortunately, even when an influencer specifically says to see a professional for medical issues people don't listen or care and then they are blamed for viewers disregarding the disclaimer.

[@Cutesxox]

1000% Try products using you're own discernment. I personally don't think anyone should be using retinoid every day anyhow....so I can only imagine the irritation. Use discretion yall

[@ChrystalPaull]

Here's what it costs for a dermatologist in the U.S... I had skin cancer and have to be seen every 6 months. A regular visit, just to be seen, costs $200 (without insurance). My visits are much more since I have biopsies, lab work, and other procedures (not cosmetic, like botox or laser treatments). If I didn't have skin cancer or a skin related issue, I wouldn't see a dermatologist 🤷🏼‍♀️ A primary physician might be able to help with some issues and if not, they'll recommend you see a dermatologist.

[@chibi013]

"Most people have insurance" This might be true? I have no idea. But most people I know sure as hell don't. And even when they do, copays are expensive. And it's not just the insurance problem, because you have to actually find a decent doctor who takes you concerns seriously. And then you need to make an appointment (which could take weeks, months even!). And then you'll probably need to take time off work. And what if you don't have a car? You'll need to get a cab or an Uber (which she derides as a frivolous expense? what the hell lady?) to get to your appointment and all the follow ups. The amount one could spend on useless expensive lotions does not equal to an insurance deductible. With doctors like her, no wonder so many people get roped into woo woo crystals and bullshit 🙄

[@7ScarletRoses]

As an European I was also surprised by this (from what I've gathered from social media and such I suspected it to be much lower), but apparently 91% of us citizens had some kind of insurance in 2019. However, the coverage varies wildly of course and high copay is still an enormous problem. I think people in such bubbles might see such stats and take it at face value without thinking further: '90% of people have insurance so basically everyone should be able to go to a derm!'. But at you stated, it's much more complicated than that

[@borkbork4124]

@@7ScarletRoses yup, and let’s not forget about a pharmacy card too. My inhaler is four times the insurance rate I had when I was on my mothers expensive insurance. Insurances vary by a lot, and the Dave Ramsey-like advice she gave of not getting your nails done and getting coffee irks me because there are people who cannot afford those simple pleasures either, she probably does not pateints that are more towards the working-class broke college student income level like me.

[@chibi013]

@@7ScarletRoses I have a feeling most people in the US are technically insured but are actually "underinsured". Most of the people I know who are insured are only covered for basic preventive care like yearly checkups. My insurance would laugh in my face if I asked about fancy laser treatments for my skin.

[@7ScarletRoses]

@@chibi013 Yeah absolutely! Even coming from the Netherlands this episode sounded a bit tone-deaf. Here a consult and most medications would be covered by insurance (after a 350 copay). Which is a huge step up of course, but a lot of people would still find it difficult to spend that amount on their appearance. And I'm pretty sure nowhere in the world lasers, fillers or botox would be covered. Its an enormous luxury to be able to do these things and it feels weird when it's being talked about like going to the GP regularly,= as if its equally important and attainable.

[@thatjillgirl]

It is true. The majority of Americans have medical insurance. The problem is, it often isn't enough. It's fairly common to have a high deductible plan that doesn't cover much. But if you do have insurance, it's worth looking into what it will cover. A dermatologist in your network may not be that bad, but it depends on your insurance plan.

[@MintyFrills]

wow, shocking that she would perpetuate the blue light from screens thing. you should check out what labmuffin beauty science said about blue light filters. That's a yikes for me. Also I don't like cerave and cetaphil because they are not cruelty free BTW.

[@gabbebelle]

And bakuchiol…

[@gabbebelle]

Yikes for me too! Do your research lol, like she said! When shopping for derms.

[@wolfferoni]

Yeah that blue light thing was very surprising. It's very disappointing as someone who claims to care a lot about the science/ research behind things

[@ksadams23]

So glad I started seeing a dermatologist. I have insurance that I pay through my work- I already had it so I feel like why not use it! I pay $40 copay each appointment and $5 for the garage parking.. the confidence I’ve developed from this is worth thousands.

[@Tiffany-cr9bc]

I use water to rinse my face, vitamin c sirum, moisterizer with spf in the morning and a rentinol cream at night. Boom! Makeup is an over the counter CC cream and a light blush if I absolutely have to

[@dearbronte686]

I started off wondering why this ep is quite long and then the doc started talking (without taking a breath I think - way talented) and I was like riiiggghhhttt. Jumped off pretty quick, but the comments tell me I'm not missing much. Love your work TFD.

[@Cutesxox]

Some people's skincare routines just work well for them & topical application is all they need to maintain their skin. Some are just excited and share what they're doing bc it actually worked for them. I don't think that's a bad thing. 🤷🏾‍♀️

[@auroras.2015]

Agreed. I don't really like the message she gives..basically saying 95% of skincare is "unessecerry", mocks people who try to educate themself and know what a sebaceous filament is (like does she want people to "stay stupid"?) and advertising that going to a derm is the one solution. (And in her case to make more money from that) In my country if you go to a derm for stuff like acne or like "aesthetic" reasons they usually show no interest and prescribe some drying damaging cream with cortisone. I never ever heard one of them say anything about BHA/AHA and retinol. Only after watching influencers I even learned what those things are and after 15 years of acne I finally managed to clear it up. I even once went and got a facial done, but that lady didn't know that pores don't shrink and hurt my skin trying to extract blackheads that I had scars after that. People like me only can resort to influencers like James Welsh and Cassandra Bankson and it honestly changed my skin (and life in a way)

[@omonyeakahome9174]

I needed this! I just started seeing a dermatologist last month. Best decision ever

[@wowwee0]

Topical tretinoin (AKA retin-a) has done more for my acne and overall skin concerns than ANYTHING I've spent money on the past ~14 years. and it only costs me around $18 (CAD) for 2 months. It DID take a good ~6-9 months to REALLY see the benefits, but it's legit!!

[@mootmovies6372]

Chelsea - your style evolution is incredible. You're looking so chic these days. I love this outfit.

[@allergiccookies6735]

don't tell people to not self diagnose. if you're poor and don't have the money to randomly see a dermatologist, it is a prerequisite to even consider saving the money for an appt to first tell yourself 'okay I have this thing and it needs treatment'

[@elegitopia6124]

I understand the comments saying that it's kinda untrue that dermatologists are accesible. Certainly not a need if your skin problems is manageable. However, if you do have persistent skin problems like mine, I'd have to say that going to the dermatologist is the wisest financial decision you can make. Even the low-end ones (with proper credentials, ofc) can be a life-saver. If your severity is like mine, I think it's actually financially wise to just minimize your skincare regimen and to gather time and resources instead, as best as you can until you manage to access a dermatologist. I watched so many skincare contents, from the enthusiasts/influencers to fellow dermatologists. All that information has been valuable. The thing is: it doesn't help my skin, because my skin needs prescription grade medicine. It needs lasers. I spent months experimenting with highly-reviewed drugstore products and have little to no success, wasting so much money. They are simply no match to the prescribed topical creams and oral medicine that are created by the doctors. All the information on the internet made by well-meaning communicators cannot give me access to those prescription-level goodness. So, yeah. As soon as you gather enough time and resources, go to a dermatologist. If there's someone that has the highest chance of saving your skin, it's them.

[@lunamiku4166]

This is absolutely 100% true!! Getting consulted by a real dermatologist and not just by someone in the internet definitely solves most of my problem with my skin!! I'm so happy to be properly diagnosed rather than blindly guessing what's the problem of my skin

[@tiankapharaoh544]

I was really feeling the vibe and wanted more information about the dermatologist because she seems very wise. However, the comment about huge lips not being attractive or ‘the aesthetic’ was a little offensive because that’s how my folks lips are naturally, and it’s beautiful.

[@jacquiz.6837]

+++

[@7ScarletRoses]

I get that! I think it could have been phrased a lot better. I think large lips are absolutely beautiful, but sometimes when we change 1 feature a lot, a face can end up looking unbalanced. Lips that have been made larger surgically also look different from naturally large lips (they tend to look almost stretched thin, because they kind of are). Naturally big lips don't have these problems and I don't think she meant to include them (but that might be my interpretation because I think naturally big lips are beautiful)

[@TheDancingBell]

I love that you bring up mental health. I share in this struggle with my skin and mental health. We're not alone guys!

[@ZePopTart]

If only skin conditions were treated as a health issue by insurance plans

[@missHLE]

I love her voice. I really enjoyed this interview. Thanks TFD.

[@SteamyBun]

But... my skin has never looked better since following the advice of KZbin aestheticians, derms and skincare enthusiasts (while employing my critical thinking and common sense, of course). And I didn't have to pay a cent. I spend more than I need to on skincare, but that's because I enjoy it, not because someone told me I can only look good if I spend $$$. Dr Dre comes to mind - she's a derm and advocates for affordable, minimalist routines!

[@SteamyBun]

To add to that - not only are dermatologist visits not accessible for everyone as many commenters have mentioned, but some people have had really bad experiences with doctors and health specialists. It can be surprisingly hard to find a medical expert who's efficient (doesn't waste your $$$ and time by scheduling more visits than necessary), compassionate, and doesn't make you feel judged.

[@BethVonBlack]

This Derm’s face is not the best advertisement for her skills in my opinion. She’s full of filler and Botox and then she’s putting down celebrities who’ve gone overboard…. Ironic much.

[@zlatina299]

Exactly.

[@walamousa6287]

Yes!!! How oblivious can she be? 😂 Nothing looks natural about her face.

[@luckyluna62]

It’s interesting how South Korean culture has also propelled a new beauty standard for the west (or South Korea has tapped into that need) not sure which came first but I remind myself I can’t have televised south Korean skin because first that’s not my genes and two I can’t afford it 😂🥲

[@AB-sm1qf]

No the skin care thing has long been a thing before the Korean phenomenon. It’s just that they got smart and can sell a lot of formulas that otherwise cost 4x as much in the US. The Korean industry helped innovate products that have great ingredients but not cost a small fortune. Most of all, what they also helped was disrupt makeup. The US had a thing where you need a thousand products to have the “natural” look. But Koreans are high contrast usually, meaning bright skin and dark hair, and can’t convincingly pull off the earthy shades without looking awkward. I learned I can relate to them beauty wise as a Latina since I suffer from the same problems. I cannot for the life of me pull off nude, beige, brownish makeup without looking dirty and awkward. I saw that they had the popsicle lip things where they sheer out bold colored lips. I have naturally hot pink lips, so I figured it would look fantastic especially as I already have clear skin. Lo and behold, it was an epic move. I looked fresher and just made sense finally. I also could find a moisturizer my skin liked as it hates heavy products and the Korean staple is the serum.

[@ecosocialist9913]

i can remember really attacking my face with striping products when i was a teen that when my lo became a teen i did more research so she had a more balanced relationship with her skin and better products following derms on KZbin was a valuable resource.

[@emilyjanet455]

This is smaller scale, but I've always suffered from horrifically chapped lips. Finally consulted my doctor about it and she referred me to a dermatologist. I didn't even need to go in, we did a virtual consult and he prescribed a steroid cream and my lips are infinitely better now than any amount of fancy lip balm had ever done. See a derm if you can!!

[@alicelynch7764]

Omg yes same! Steroid cream literally changed my life - best part was it was recommended OTC by a pharmacist :')

[@TyLee96]

Okay nice and all but doc's own face fillers/botox does not look subtle.

[@roxanne7185]

Omg! This is the push I need to make an appointment with a Derma. Thank you. Great topic discussed

[@robertstanley9633]

Another note Ive learned about face cleansers is that the 'store brand' version of the product most often has the same ingredients as the name brand AND it is tested out more than the name brand. Save money!

[@buggy979]

Really feel like cosmetic issues are things we should be moving away from and not prioritizing. How many ppl go into debt to fix things that are really esteem issues like scarring? How is any of this talk financially proactive?

[@samanthastutzman21]

Yeah I get a coffee about once every few weeks and the only time I got my nails done were for my wedding...never even been inside a hair salon and no I don't have money to spend on a dermatologist. Little out of touch for how life actually is for many people.

[@rashmiacharya5389]

Oooh I'm super excited for this! And super early it looks like haha

[@AJK0119]

I was interested to hear her mention vitamin C serum as a part of the skincare “essentials” routine. I didn’t think that was the case.

[@aedooland1824]

I live in Australia and had a bunch of sunburns as a kid (it wasn't considered a big deal back then) and then one awful sunburn which was 2nd degree and blistered and peeled at 27, which gave me lasting melasma and terrible problems with oily skin. I've kind of given up on my skin at this point, the damage is done. I do stay out of the sun or put sunscreen on now to prevent further damage, but I already look older than I am at 40. Shrug. Luckily I've never really cared that much about my appearance but I really feel for people who are in my situation who DO care.

[@louisachalarca6494]

I finally have a diagnosis for my HS. Going to the dermatologist was a good choice

[@MrMiafultz]

omg when she said "one breakout a week is far too much" literally just thought this was something I had to live with and its "not that bad" paused the video and called to set up a derm appointment on the spot!! loved this thank you chelsea!

[@ivanaandric5703]

Ask for Accutane. Don't let dermatologist "mind fuck you" as they did me for 10 years! It is virtualy the only cure for acne! You can take one to tree pills a day, depending on severity of your condition (you can change it till you find the righ dose, you usually start with one, and then if you are not satisfied enough with the change you start taking two.. from 3 to 6 months for common/ normal acne type like acne vulgaris for examle. I spend thousnds od $ on dermatologists and they were nothing but a rip off (here's your cream and came back as many times posible so I can charge you for each visit and give you some other shit that won't help you ofcourse, when you lose your patients on that first extremly expansive shit I prescribed you before... and that cycle lasted for yearssss) And then, by recomandation I found that dermatologist, I saw him twice, but he saved my life!

[@TheBrownieQueen]

Why are you taking her word for it?

[@thatjillgirl]

@@TheBrownieQueen Why not? It's very true that for most people, one breakout a week is NOT something that they simply have to try to live with. It's quite likely that something can be done to reduce the breakout frequencies, and it's worth checking into.

[@ashleytune1598]

i'm confused as to why she doesn't WANT normal people to know the actual words for things - "The fact that you know what that is is a PROBLEM". It's like she doesn't want people who can't afford dermatologists to not have access to skincare information at all. This whole video is so tone deaf. (And the amount of people who watch this channel who take cabs to work and get regular in-salon manicures is probably negligible.)

[@byoung8529]

Really great interview, but I think the title is a bit misleading. Everything she said, I was actually already educated on due to popular skincare influencers on KZbin like Hyram, Susan Yara etc. I think theres a big difference between them and tiktoks "skincare influencers." xxx

[@axreason]

Hyram and Susan are some of the worst skincare youtubers though...

[@latristessdurera8763]

I’m more irritated by celebrity skin care. Grrrrrrr see I’m already 😖 lol

[@byoung8529]

@@axreason they literally have identical advice to this women…

[@auroras.2015]

@@axreason pushing her brand doesn't magically invalids every skincare advice she ever gave.

[@MockingjayCity]

Best decision for me was to see a dermatologist. She prescribed me a retinoid for acne scars - all other cosmeceutical bs got nothing on tretinoin!

[@muiawat]

24:43 “ brands that are very expensive, that we are all aware of , without extra benefit “ My mind just screamed augustinus bader

[@mantharie529]

I actually encounter that “life hack” mentality a lot in dentistry too. There are so many at home diy “fixes” for making your teeth straighter and whiter, which aren’t great. Some of them may work or at least be harmless, but some of them are quite damaging. A consult with a dentist does not cost much and can really keep you from permanently damaging your teeth and guide you towards effective treatment.

[@imamountainheadtoo]

I was blessed with moderate cystic acne, genetic from both sides of the family. I have tried so much shit, the ONLY thing that has worked for me so far is the hardcore Accutane/Clavaris medication.

[@chewbacca90210]

Have you tried altering your diet? For some their triggers could be dairy, alcohol etc. I've had acne cystic acne for 20 years. Broke out again last year and doxycycline, moisturizer and skipping dairy has helped tremendously so far. I was on accutune before but it affected my blood so they cut me off it.

[@lowwastehighmelanin]

@@chewbacca90210 Do you realize how inappropriate this reply is in context? Stop.

[@Deci_Bella]

@@lowwastehighmelanin I think the person was trying to be helpful.

[@auroras.2015]

@@lowwastehighmelanin huh? He is describing his experience and is asking if diet was considered as a trigger. What in the fresh hell is inappropriate about that? Am I missing something?

[@thatjillgirl]

Same. I tried to treat my cystic acne for years, to no avail. I changed my diet, I tried all kinds of over the counter products, I tried different skincare routines, etc. Nothing. Finally saw a dermatologist at age 30, did a course of Accutane, and I have never had cystic acne since. Very, very occasionally if I let my skincare routine lapse, I'll get one or two normal pimples, but the cysts are gone. Wish I would have tried it sooner.

[@LuciaGalvan169308]

I have to say, a lot of people say "I've done it all and researched and everything online is BS and blah blah". But truly, I have fixed my long line acne concerns and eczema by watching board certified dermatologists on KZbin*, (Dr. Dray and Doctorly, to name a few) cuz not everyone eats avocado toasts and takes uber limousines worth several visits to a good dermatologist. And honestly, if you do your research well you can act on things like melasma, acne, rosacea, eczema and more without going broke. There are also excellent companies like SkinMe and Dermatica where you get really good prescription level products tailored to you (literally with your name on it) to treat specific concerns. I think doing a bazillion things suggested by kids on tiktok without knowing your skin type, considering your environment and issues and then saying "I've done it all and is all to rip you off your money" is unwise. I like this channel but this video is not... Great.

[@MichiruEll]

Reapplying sunscreen every 2h is absolutely ridiculous. People have lives. Aging is not a disease, wrinkles are not a disease, chill!

[@bbgirl800]

I've always thought this, slathering yourself every 2 hours forever because you're afraid of wrinkles is insane.

[@wallflower6942]

I come from a country with somewhat socialised healthcare. There are long waiting lists to see derms. That's why I feel like I'm wasting the derms time and people with actual bad skin conditions if I ask for a derm prescription. My face getting red and having PIH sometimes doesnt feel like a bad enough problem to take up the time of a derm that could also be seeing someone with really bad skin conditions like scars, burns, acne or chronic eczema. I'll just keep using cosmetics to treat what I have and it seems to make it better. I also dont like the laser comparison because although a laser can really work wonders, it also comes with risk of hyperpigmentation. Why would I take that risk if my problem is hyperpigmentation to start with.

[@pip5284]

I used to have severe acne. I saw so many dermatologists and used SO many medications for the span of a decade. Finally completely cured in the last year by stopping all medications, switching to whole unprocessed foods, living a less stressful lifestyle and having a baby. I believe this fixed my hormones at a root level.

[@deniseblanchard2156]

I really appreciate a lot of the info this dermatologist is provides! But, I really wish she talked about the incredibly high cost of Botox, etc. I’ve never used it, but read and heard that it can cost $500 for each time it’s injected. This and other purely cosmetic procedures like it are NOT covered by insurance. She mentioned not going to just anybody for Botox to save money , but she didn’t mention the high cost of getting a reputable person to inject it. I wish that portion of the interview had been made into a separate video and left this video for regular skin care and care for skin disorders, etc on its own.

[@muiawat]

Paula begoun has said that bigger pores usually translate to less wrinkles in older age .... so there’s a bright side Hahahah

[@PrettyTranslatorSarahMoon]

I've had what professionals call "mild" acne most of my adult life and even "mild" (as in, 30 little blemishes all over my face) acne was enough to kill my confidence. Luckily, topical benzoil peroxide did the trick for me and once I found it, I was pretty set. I never even considered a dermatologist--there's a bit of a stigma of having "cosmetic" procedures done (even though it's not cosmetic) and I was probably subconsciously ashamed of the notion of going to one, even if I had the money for it.

[@ashleymitrick2575]

For those that might have access to a derm but it's still very expensive once they diagnose you with medication 😅, if you were not aware there are often coupons offered by the medication companies , especially when your medication isn't covered by your insurance or if you don't have insurance. Sometimes it's a reduction in cost or even $0. Definitely check for a coupon or where you can get your script from when possible, as it can add up.

[@ivanaandric5703]

Sorry, Chelse for the dislike, I loove, love, love you, but I can't stand your current guest!

[@ivanaandric5703]

30:40 Great point! I hate the way you look (the blond bijach), her mannerism, "subtle" and anoying constant self promotion, her non-moving over botoxed ugly face, her bleached hair and most of all the way she talkes over Chelse (without even leting her finish her point, for exam. about lasers - which are the best, non evasive thing you can treat yourself with, I'm all in with Chelse on that!

[@harmony323]

I’m curious as to why she didn’t include Differin as an OTC acne option?

[@kendallstark4302]

She probably just forgot about it, but it is a good option.

[@axreason]

very very weird. it's literally the most effective OTC product for fighting acne.

[@rebekka2921]

She’s also dismissing otc skincare as essentially worthless for treatment, except for a few ingredients. Many are full of research-backed ingredients. While I do appreciate her saying that you don’t need expensive products, the right otc product can do a lot for the skin. Prescription can be great, but is not accessible for everyone, and not always the right fit either. She’s talking like prescription/derm treatments is the be-all-end-all, while reducing the worth of the products that are available for a lot of people. And just because Chelsea had no luck with otc, that doesn’t cancel out the efficacy for others.

[@Deci_Bella]

Yeah, I am surprised she didn't mention brands like The Ordinary, or other similar skincare lines that cropped up after The Ordinary's success, like Sephora's The Inkey List, Beautylish's Good Molecules, and so on. Many of their products are indeed very effective.

[@oohlookatthatdoggo]

OMG when she said the sample routine she said essentially my routine. I am excited.

[@oohlookatthatdoggo]

Also, she is so sweet and likeable! Great guest

[@DeadlyDeadlyBeees]

Unrelated, but does anyone know how Chelsea does her hair? She has a side part with swooped bangs that somehow never seems to go in her eyes or cover her face too much. I've been trying to do this unsuccessfully for years! I have fine hair so I can't grow my hair long, and I want this look.

[@gabbebelle]

Probably hairspray

[@DeadlyDeadlyBeees]

@@gabbebelle probably true. But with what else?

[@shelleynichols9626]

I had cystic acne triggered by perimenopause. The derm I saw recommended we try the lowest dose of tretinoin (Retin-A %.025). I got the cream but thought, "I'm a redhead with freckles. This is going to peel my face off." SURPRISE: my skin loves it. No more cysts. I use it 3x week, which is enough. (I've experimented with higher concentration, more days, etc.) I'm happy to answer any questions, too. Perimenopausal acne is horrendous.

[@alanathebespectacled]

I’ll share mine too. NOT intended to self treat, but it can be good to go see a derm with an idea of what might help you (my first one put me on salicylic face wash, no skin care and 10 000 rounds of antibiotics which wasn’t great). I had pretty severe cystic acne since age 12. Very likely hormonal. Now under control with a combination of lolo birth control, spironolactone and finacea gel. The spironolactone made the biggest difference in my opinion. Finally reasonably clear skin at age 27 and very rare for me to get a cyst.

[@shelleynichols9626]

@@alanathebespectacled Yes, absolutely. I watch A LOT of skin care youtube (It's soothing). I felt pretty confident with my knowledge. However, Chelsea's point is well taken. There's no substitute for a real doctor who looks at your specific face. That initial investment for the appointment saved me so much money in products that would have failed for me.

[@lauraosanitch6088]

Did you ever get that Fractional lasering done and how did that go? Painful? Good results? Worth it?