Skinfluence with Dr. Dustin Portela – Détails, épisodes et analyse

Most people who want to become a dermatologist know it's competitive. Few understand what it actually takes to get there when nothing is handed to you.

Dr. Wallace Nozile is a board-certified dermatologist, social media educator, and someone who came very close to choosing a career in R&B over medicine. In this conversation recorded in studio, he and Dr. Dustin Portela trace the full arc of what it takes to match into one of the most competitive specialties in medicine, from a rocky undergraduate start and a student advisor who laughed at his ambitions, to a grueling step one prep schedule and a mentor who changed everything.

Dr. Nozile is candid about the role discipline played, or didn't, in his early years. He was pre-med from the start but largely coasting until a dismissive advisor put a chip on his shoulder. That moment, he says, did more for his trajectory than anything else. He went from Cs in organic chemistry to a 4.0 in a master's program alongside first-year medical students, then into medical school, and eventually into dermatology, one of the hardest fields to match into in the country.

The conversation gets into the emotional weight of that process in ways a checklist never could. Dr. Nozile talks about skipping his best friend's bachelor party to study, becoming temporarily socially awkward after weeks of 12-hour study days, and the unexpected mentor who turned out to be his greatest advocate. That mentor, Dr. Stanton King Wesson, was a Vietnam veteran and program director who told Dr. Nozile plainly: "The only difference between you and that person is time." It's the kind of line that stays with you.

They also look ahead, discussing personalized medicine, genetic testing for treatment response, and what role physicians will play as AI reshapes dermatology. And in a field where social media has become its own form of medical education, Dr. Nozile reflects on why reaching patients who might never see a dermatologist matters as much to him as anything he does in clinic.

Product of the Week

Avene Tolerance Foaming Cleanser

A gentle foaming cleanser Dr. Nozile recommends for dry, sensitive skin patients who thought foaming cleansers were off the table.

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Dr. Wallace Nozile
Follow on social media (links in show notes)

Skinfluence Podcast
Instagram: @skinfluence_pod

Your skin at 37 is not the same organ it was at 22. Collagen is breaking down faster than it's being replaced. Fat pads are shifting. Cell turnover is slowing. And one morning you wake up and wonder where your face went.

Dr. Dustin Portela and Austin Lee break down the biology of aging skin in a way that's actually useful, covering the collagen and elastin loss that starts in your 30s, why the dermis gradually thins, how fat pads descend over time, and how cumulative sun damage eventually overwhelms your skin's antioxidant defenses. It's a slow process, mostly invisible, until it isn't.

The episode then turns to what you can actually do about it. Sunscreen and sun-protective clothing are the foundation. Vitamin C serums help neutralize free radical damage. Retinols, on both the face and body, can slow collagen decline and improve texture over time. Diet matters more than most people realize: chronic sugar intake accelerates the breakdown of collagen, while inadequate protein makes it harder to rebuild. Sleep, cardio, and resistance training round out the picture, with real data showing that weightlifting can improve skin thickness, not just build muscle.

For those already seeing changes, the hosts get more specific. Topical pigment inhibitors like hydroquinone and thiamidol can address sunspots, with the important caveat that not every dark spot is the same. Microneedling, chemical peels, and CO2 laser resurfacing each have a place depending on the severity of concerns. Dermal filler can be transformative for volume loss when used correctly, though Dr. Portela is candid about what happens when it isn't.

The episode closes with a reminder that aging is not a problem to be solved. It's something to be managed thoughtfully, with realistic expectations and a little grace.

Product of the Week

Activé Restore Body Firming Cream — Dean Skincare

A retinol body cream with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and caffeine formulated to improve skin resilience and support collagen production. Available at shop.drdustinportela.com.

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Austin Lee, PA-C
Instagram: @austinleepac

Skinfluence Podcast
Instagram: @skinfluence_pod

Celebrities might live in the spotlight, but when it comes to skin conditions, they're dealing with many of the same challenges as everyone else.

In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee walk through real examples of well-known public figures who have dealt with skin conditions, and what their stories can teach us. From Kim Kardashian's psoriasis and Winnie Harlow's vitiligo to Michael Jackson's reported depigmentation, they break down what these conditions actually are, how they show up, and what treatment can look like.

They also cover cases like rhinophyma in Bill Clinton, melanoma in Teddi Mellencamp, Merkel cell carcinoma in Jimmy Buffett, and discoid lupus in Seal. Along the way, they explain how these conditions develop, why some are more serious than others, and what people should actually watch for when it comes to their own skin.

But this episode goes beyond just naming conditions. Dustin and Austin talk about why it matters when public figures open up about their health, how it helps normalize conversations around skin issues, and why it can encourage people to seek care earlier. They also address the downside, including the risks of trying to diagnose people online and the importance of respecting privacy.

The bigger takeaway is simple. If you see something on your skin that concerns you, get it checked. Early detection matters, and reassurance is never a waste of time.

Product of the Week

Kill Switch

A sleep support supplement that Dr. Portela uses regularly to help improve sleep quality and recovery. Better sleep plays a major role in overall health, including skin health, and this is one tool he uses to stay consistent.

https://www.switchsupplements.com/DUSTIN

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Austin Lee
TikTok: @austinleepac
Instagram: @austinl

Acne isn't just a teenage problem. In fact, more adults than ever are dealing with breakouts, and they often behave very differently than what you experienced growing up.

In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee break down the unique causes of adult acne and why it tends to be more stubborn, more inflammatory, and more frustrating to treat. From hormonal shifts and testosterone exposure to stress, sleep disruption, diet, and modern lifestyle habits, they explain why adult acne is becoming more common and why it often shows up differently in men and women.

They also walk through the biggest mistakes people make when trying to treat acne at home, including over-scrubbing, using overly aggressive routines, microneedling over inflamed skin, and popping cystic lesions that never come to a head. These habits often make things worse, leading to more inflammation, longer healing times, and higher risk of scarring.

On the treatment side, they cover what actually works. From over-the-counter options like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, and niacinamide to prescription treatments like tretinoin, clindamycin, Winlevi, spironolactone, doxycycline, and Accutane. They explain how each works, when to use them, and why there is no one-size-fits-all approach.

They also dive into the mental side of acne, especially in adults, where breakouts can impact confidence, work, and daily life in a very real way. The key takeaway is consistency, patience, and working with a professional to find the right combination for your skin.

If you're dealing with acne in your 20s, 30s, or beyond, this episode will help you understand what's actually going on and how to treat it the right way.

Product of the Week

MANTL Complete Skincare Bundle

A simple, effective routine that covers the essentials without overcomplicating things. The bundle includes a cleanser, anti-aging moisturizer, and the Invisible Daily SPF, one of Dr. Portela's go-to sunscreens with a clear, matte finish that works especially well for men and anyone with facial hair.

Bundle: $30
Invisible Daily SPF: $15 or 2 for $24
Cleanser: $10
Moisturizer: $12

Available at:
https://shop.drdustinportela.com/collections/mantl

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Austin Lee
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What if your doctor was always just a message away… and actually knew you?

In this guest episode, Dr. Dustin Portela sits down with Dr. Usama Syde, founder of Future Clinic, to break down how technology, AI, and chat-based care are reshaping the way patients and doctors connect. But this is not about replacing doctors. It is about bringing back something healthcare has quietly lost: real relationships.

They dig into why modern medicine feels so fragmented, how the system turned doctors into interchangeable "providers," and why trust between patients and physicians is at an all-time low. From there, the conversation shifts to a new model of care that feels surprisingly simple. You choose your doctor, you build a relationship, and you communicate directly, just like you would with someone you trust.

Dr. Syde explains how Future Clinic uses AI the right way. Not to replace medical decisions, but to streamline communication, gather information, and give doctors more time to actually think, care, and connect. The result is a system that feels more personal, more flexible, and more aligned with how people already live their lives.

They also get into the real risks of AI in healthcare, where it works, where it absolutely does not, and why removing the human element is a mistake. From doctor burnout to the rise of private equity in medicine, this episode pulls back the curtain on what is actually happening behind the scenes and where things are headed next.

If you have ever felt like healthcare has become rushed, impersonal, or harder to navigate, this episode will change how you think about what is possible.

Product of the Week

Future Clinic
A new way to connect directly with a doctor you trust through chat-based care. Build a real relationship, get personalized guidance, and access care in a way that actually fits into your life.

Find your doctor or learn more:
https://www.futureclinic.com/

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Austin Lee
TikTok: @austinleepac
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Dr. Usama Syde
Instagram: @usamasyde

Pores are one of the most talked-about topics in skincare, and one of the most misunderstood.

In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee break down what pores actually are, why they exist, and why the idea of "shrinking" them isn't as straightforward as social media makes it seem. They walk through the biology behind pores, including their role in oil production, skin health, and barrier function, and why they're something you need, not something to erase.

The conversation digs into what really determines pore size, from genetics and hormones to oil production and aging. They also explain why pores can appear larger over time and what factors like sun damage, clogged pores, and collagen loss have to do with it.

Dustin and Austin cut through the noise on popular trends like "glass skin" and pore-minimizing products, explaining what actually works versus what is just marketing. They also cover how to improve the appearance of pores the right way, including ingredients like retinoids and salicylic acid, proper cleansing, and when in-office treatments may make sense.

If you've ever felt like you're chasing smaller pores and not seeing results, this episode will reset expectations and give you a smarter, more effective path forward.

Product of the Week

Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
A cult-favorite for a reason. This salicylic acid exfoliant helps unclog pores, reduce buildup, and smooth skin texture over time without being overly harsh when used correctly.

Differin Gel (Adapalene 0.1%)
A powerful over-the-counter retinoid that helps regulate cell turnover, prevent clogged pores, and improve overall skin texture with consistent use.

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Austin Lee
TikTok: @austinleepac
Instagram: @austinleepac

Rosacea is one of the most common conditions seen in dermatology, and one of the most misunderstood.

In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee break down exactly what rosacea is, why it shows up, and why it can look completely different from one person to another. From persistent redness and flushing to acne-like breakouts and even thickened skin on the nose, they walk through the different types and how to recognize them.

They dive into what is actually happening beneath the skin, including inflammation, blood vessel changes, and even the role of Demodex mites. The conversation also covers one of the most important parts of managing rosacea: identifying triggers. From sun exposure and heat to alcohol, caffeine, spicy foods, and exercise, they explain why flare-ups happen and how to better control them without over-restricting your lifestyle.

Dustin and Austin also clear up one of the biggest mistakes patients make: treating rosacea like acne. They explain why harsh scrubs, over-exfoliation, and aggressive skincare routines often make things worse, and how focusing on barrier repair, gentle products, and consistency can make a major difference.

On the treatment side, they walk through everything from over-the-counter options like niacinamide and azelaic acid to prescription topicals, oral medications, and when more advanced options like lasers or low-dose Accutane come into play. They also explain why rosacea is a chronic condition, what realistic expectations should look like, and how to maintain long-term control.

If you struggle with redness, flushing, or breakouts that never quite respond to typical acne treatments, this episode will help you understand what is really going on and how to manage it effectively.

Products of the Week

Paula's Choice 10% Azelaic Acid Booster
A great starting point for rosacea-prone skin, especially if you're dealing with redness and acne-like bumps. Azelaic acid helps calm inflammation, improve tone, and is one of the most versatile ingredients for rosacea.

EltaMD UV Skin Recovery
A green-tinted sunscreen that not only protects against UV exposure but also helps neutralize visible redness. It is lightweight, hydrating, and designed specifically for sensitive, rosacea-prone skin.

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Austin Lee
TikTok: @austinleepac
Instagram: @austinleepac

Dermatology has come a long way, but not every treatment from the past deserves a comeback. In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee take a fascinating look at some of the biggest blind spots in skin health and beauty, from mercury and arsenic in cosmetics to x-ray treatments for acne, sun lamps, coal tar therapies, and aggressive phenol peels.

They break down why these treatments were once accepted, what doctors and patients believed at the time, and how better evidence eventually revealed the risks. Along the way, they also touch on acne myths, outdated assumptions about hygiene and diet, the dangers of unregulated skin-lightening creams, and why some modern at-home beauty devices may become the next blind spot we look back on with regret.

But this episode is not just about the past. It is also about how good medicine actually works. Dustin and Austin talk about why evidence-based care matters, how science keeps evolving, and why the best providers stay humble, keep learning, and listen closely to their patients. They also explore how technology, research tools, ingredient transparency, and personalized skincare are helping modern dermatology move in a smarter and safer direction.

If you have ever wondered how medicine changes over time, why old advice falls apart, or what current trends may not age well, this episode is equal parts eye-opening, thoughtful, and incredibly relevant.

Product of the Week: AlphaRet from Skinbetter Science

AlphaRet is one of Dr. Portela and Austin's favorite retinoid products because it combines real results with a level of gentleness that is hard to find. It features retinoic acid along with lactic acid and glycolic acid to improve skin tone, texture, and signs of aging while staying more tolerable than many traditional retinoids.

It is one of the most popular products in their office and a longtime Skinbetter Science standout.

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Austin Lee
TikTok: @austinleepac
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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.

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Austin Lee
TikTok: @austinleepac
Instagram: @austinleepac

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

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Austin Lee
TikTok: @austinleepac
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