Skin As It Should Be – Details, episodes & analysis

Podcast details

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Skin As It Should Be

ESSE

Health & Fitness

Science

Frequency: 1 episode/2d. Total Eps: 6

The health without hype podcast that takes an unfiltered look at skincare and the science behind it. It cuts through the jargon, dispels the myths, and unpacks what works, what doesn’t, and why.

Recent rankings

Latest chart positions across Apple Podcasts and Spotify rankings.

Apple Podcasts

🇬🇧 Great Britain - medicine
14/08/2026
#86
🇬🇧 Great Britain - medicine
06/08/2026
#91
🇬🇧 Great Britain - medicine
05/08/2026
#50

Spotify

No recent rankings available

Shared links between episodes and podcasts

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https://www.esseskincare.com
7 shares
https://www.esseskincare.com/
5 shares
https://www.esseskincare.co.za/prescript/
2 shares

https://www.instagram.com/esseskincare_
12 shares

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RSS feed quality

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Score global : 62%

Publication history

Monthly episode publishing history over the past years.

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Why you think you know your skin, but you don’t.

Season 1 · Episode 1

Monday, April 13, 2026 • Duration 37:45

Welcome to Episode 01 of Skin As It Should Be Podcast! In this conversation, host Geoff Paton interviews master chemist Trevor Steyn about the science of skincare and the crucial role of the skin microbiome.

He shares his journey from chemistry to ethical skincare, critiques the industry’s reliance on petrochemicals, and explains how microbiome research has transformed his approach. They discuss the dangers of “strip and replace” skincare, the importance of microbial diversity, and practical tips for supporting healthy skin.

The conversation highlights the need for microbiome-friendly products and a shift toward long-term, science-based skin health. This is a roadmap for anyone seeking real, lasting skin health. ⏱ Timestamped Overview 01:19 - Discovering Chemistry and Early Influences 02:31 - Entry into Skincare and Industry Critique 03:55 - Petrochemicals in Skincare 05:02 - Building an Ethical Skincare Brand 06:04 - Organic Certification and Early Product Development 07:12 - Impact of the Human Microbiome Project 08:17 - Complexity of Treating Skin as an Ecosystem 08:44 - Single Molecule Applications and Unintended Consequences 09:41 - Short-Term vs. Long-Term Skincare Thinking 10:43 - Human Microbiome Project Explained 12:46 - Reformulating Products for the Microbiome 14:06 - Cost and Challenges of Microbiome-Friendly Formulation 16:34 - Differences Between Gut and Skin Microbiome Research 18:22 - Legacy Skincare vs. Microbiome Science 21:44 - Consequences of Stripping the Skin Microbiome 23:58 - Skin Health Issues from Modern Skincare 25:54 - Restoring Skin Ecology: Practical Advice 27:42 - Live Microbes and Probiotic Skincare 29:20 - Benefits of Restoring the Skin Microbiome 30:29 - Frustrations and Progress in the Skincare Industry 33:02 - Future of Skincare: Biotherapeutics and Innovation 35:25 - Key Takeaway: Treat Skin as an Ecology 💬 Quote of the Episode

“Skin should be robust, alive, diverse, and beautiful. It’s not something you can just strip and sterilize and expect to have a good long-term outcome.” – Trevor Steyn 🌐 Connect with ESSE Skincare 🔗 Website: https://www.esseskincare.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/esseskincare_/ 🎧 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/esseskincare Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EsseSkincareSA LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/esse-skincare

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The Future of Skincare

Season 1 · Episode 6

Wednesday, April 1, 2026 • Duration 36:04

Welcome to Episode 06 of Skin As It Should Be Podcast! In this conversation, host Geoff Paton interviews master chemist Trevor Steyn about the evolving field of microbiome skincare, focusing on live biotherapeutics, postbiotics, and related technologies.

Trevor highlights regulatory hurdles, misuse of the term “probiotic,” and emerging innovations like encapsulation, phage therapy, and AI-driven personalized treatments. They explore the differences between genetically engineered microbes used as drugs and naturally occurring microbes in over-the-counter products, as well as the challenges of maintaining live microbes in formulations.

He concludes with optimism about the future of microbiome skincare, while acknowledging ongoing technical and economic challenges. This episode unpacks the actionable guidance for consumers, formulators, and industry professionals navigating this rapidly evolving space. ⏱ Timestamped Overview

00:13 - The Two Paths for Live Biotherapeutics 01:16 - Misuse of the Term "Probiotics" in Skincare 02:51 - Drug Path: Companies and Technologies 06:08 - Safety Mechanisms in Genetically Engineered Microbes 07:58 - Over-the-Counter Path: Naturally Occurring Microbes 10:05 - Encapsulation and Delivery Technologies 12:41 - GRAS and Non-GRAS Species Explained 16:46 - Legal Actions and Regulatory Crackdown 18:26 - Techniques for Maintaining Live Microbes 22:25 - Live vs. Dead Microbes: Efficacy 27:13 - Light-Based Microbiome Manipulation 30:02 - Precision Biotherapeutics and AI 34:17 - Barriers to Everyday Adoption 💬 Quote of the Episode

“We see much higher benefits with live microbes.” – Trevor Steyn 🌐 Connect with ESSE Skincare

🔗 Website: https://www.esseskincare.com Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/esseskincare Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EsseSkincareSA LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/esse-skincare Instagram:

Why a lack of Vitamin D weakens how your skin functions.

Season 1 · Episode 5

Wednesday, April 1, 2026 • Duration 44:03

Welcome to Episode 05 of Skin As It Should Be Podcast! In this conversation, host Geoff Paton interviews master chemist Trevor Steyn about the complexities of sun exposure, vitamin D, and public health messaging.

They challenge the blanket advice to avoid sun and rely solely on sunscreen, highlighting the risks of vitamin D deficiency and the broader health benefits of sunlight. The discussion covers the science of vitamin D synthesis, the limitations of supplementation, the impact of sunscreen chemicals, and the need for personalized sun exposure based on individual factors.

In this episode, we’ll dive deep into the science, controversies, and practical strategies for optimizing your relationship with the sun. ⏱ Timestamped Overview

01:29 - Risks of Sun Avoidance and Swedish Study 02:48 - Sunlight’s Benefits Beyond Vitamin D 03:18 - Vitamin D Deficiency and Public Messaging 05:22 - Complexity of Sun Exposure Guidance 06:13 - Factors Affecting Vitamin D Synthesis 10:29 - Modern Lifestyle and Vitamin D Apps 12:15 - Vitamin D’s Role in Human Evolution 15:01 - Chemical Risks of Sunscreens 17:14 - Health Impacts of Low Vitamin D 18:43 - Limitations of Vitamin D Supplementation 19:20 - Problems with High-Dose Vitamin D 20:28 - NIH Study: Supplements vs. Placebo 22:46 - Sunlight Produces Multiple Steroids 25:02 - How to Optimize Vitamin D Naturally 27:20 - Testing for Vitamin D Levels 30:26 - Vitamin D’s Systemic Health Roles 33:37 - Using Apps to Personalize Sun Exposure 37:21 - Balancing Sunscreen Use and Vitamin D 39:47 - Evolutionary Mismatch & Burn Events 41:58 - Fear-Based Sunscreen Marketing 💬 Quote of the Episode

“Avoiding the sun is about as deleterious to your health as heavy smoking.” – Trevor Steyn 🌐 Connect with ESSE Skincare

🔗 Website: https://www.esseskincare.com Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/esseskincare Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EsseSkincareSA LinkedIn: Instagram:

Why your skincare brand’s ethics could damage your skin.

Season 1 · Episode 4

Wednesday, April 1, 2026 • Duration 38:39

Welcome to Episode 04 of Skin As It Should Be Podcast! In this conversation, host Geoff Paton interviews master chemist Trevor Steyn about the challenges of ethical formulation, the pitfalls of industry standards, and the importance of transparency and research.

He shares the brand’s evolution from being perceived as organic to focusing on microbiome health, emphasizing long-term skin wellness over quick fixes. Trevor highlights the brand’s commitment to safe, effective ingredients, sustainability, and fair trade, explaining why they avoid harmful chemicals and prioritize client health over profit.

The conversation offers insights into innovation, ethical business practices, and the future of microbiome skincare. ⏱ Timestamped Overview

01:01 - Shift to Microbiome Skincare 02:31 - Challenges of Organic Messaging 04:11 - Reformulation for Microbiome 05:19 - Long-Term Skin Health vs. Short-Term Results 06:07 - Dangers of Phthalates and Industry Practices 09:52 - Ethics Before Profit in Formulation 11:34 - Ensuring Product Safety and Ingredient Transparency 13:52 - Limitations of Organic Certification 15:13 - Beyond Certification: Ingredient Choices 18:13 - Challenges for Multinational Formulators 20:01 - Retail Formulation and Brand Lifespan 21:40 - Formulation Philosophy and Willingness to Fail 23:34 - Key Ingredients and Formulation Building Blocks 27:17 - Environmental and Ethical Commitments 30:43 - Business Model and Avoiding Venture Capital 💬 Quote of the Episode

“The ethics of what we do is something we choose to keep quiet about, but it’s still our reason for being.” – Trevor Steyn 🌐 Connect with ESSE Skincare

🔗 Website: https://www.esseskincare.com 🎧 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/esseskincare Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EsseSkincareSA LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/esse-skincare Instagram:

Why you really can discover the secret to better-ageing skin.

Season 1 · Episode 3

Wednesday, April 1, 2026 • Duration 48:03

Welcome to Episode 03 of Skin As It Should Be Podcast! In this conversation, host Geoff Paton interviews master chemist Trevor Steyn to explore the science and ethics of better-aging. They discuss the challenges of studying aging, the influence of social media on young people seeking cosmetic treatments, and the importance of lifestyle factors; like diet, sun exposure, and microbiome health in slowing aging.

Trevor highlights the trade-offs of quick fixes versus long-term skin health, the role of genetics, and the need for realistic expectations. They emphasize that sustainable results come from healthy habits, not shortcuts, and encourage listeners to balance occasional treatments with consistent self-care.

Whether you’re a skincare enthusiast, a health-conscious individual, or simply curious about the science of aging, this episode will equip you with the knowledge to make informed, sustainable choices. ⏱ Timestamped Overview

01:06 - Short-Term vs. Long-Term Study Limitations 04:08 - Trends: Younger People and Social Media Influence 05:25 - Ethics and Practitioner Responsibility 07:26 - Can We Turn Back the Clock? 10:12 - Complexity of Skin and Gut Microbiome 11:51 - Hunter-Gatherer Lifestyle and Aging 13:02 - Microbiome, Stress, and Inflammation 14:10 - Skin Surface Area and Microbiome Impact 15:47 - Evolutionary Mismatch and Modern Lifestyle 18:55 - Chronic Inflammation and Modern Diseases 20:22 - Genetics vs. Lifestyle in Aging 22:44 - Diet, Glycation, and Skin Aging 24:02 - Nature vs. Nurture: Lifestyle’s Role 29:18 - Retinol and Retinoids: Benefits and Risks 34:31 - Bakuchiol as a Retinol Alternative 39:50 - Visible Signs of Premature Aging 42:08 - Measuring Effectiveness of Interventions 45:03 - Expected Timeline for Results 💬 Quote of the Episode

“You can definitely slow the tick of the clock, but it takes willpower most of the time.” – Trevor Steyn 🌐 Connect with ESSE Skincare

🔗 Website: https://www.esseskincare.com 🎧 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/esseskincare Facebook: LinkedIn: Instagram:

Why 70% of people now have sensitive skin and what to do about it.

Season 1 · Episode 2

Wednesday, April 1, 2026 • Duration 51:26

Welcome to Episode 02 of Skin As It Should Be Podcast! In this conversation, host Geoff Paton interviews master chemist Trevor Steyn about the rising prevalence of sensitive skin, exploring its causes and the impact of modern skincare routines.

They highlight how overuse of harsh products and disruption of the skin’s microbiome contribute to inflammation and sensitivity. Trevor recommends simplifying skincare, protecting the skin’s barrier, and embracing a “less is more” approach to support long-term skin health.

The conversation covers the history of sensitive skin, the importance of maintaining the skin’s natural oils and pH, and practical advice for healthier routines.

For more info on the personalised skincare, visit https://www.esseskincare.co.za/prescript/ ⏱ Timestamped Overview

01:38 - Historical Emergence of Sensitive Skin as a Condition 02:13 - Sensitive Skin in Traditional vs. Modern Lifestyles 03:17 - How Self-Assessment Surveys Work 05:33 - Signs and Symptoms of Sensitive Skin 07:11 - Product Use and Delayed Sensitivity 08:39 - Skin Microbiome, Barrier Function, and Inflammation 10:28 - Product Dependence and Occlusive Ingredients 11:48 - Triggers for Dry Skin and Product Use 14:03 - Genetics vs. Acquired Sensitive Skin 16:35 - Generational Decline in Skin Microbiome Diversity 17:57 - Consequences of Microbial Loss and Reintroduction Challenge 19:28 - Antibiotics and Skin Microbiome Recovery 21:04 - Industrial Skincare’s Role in Microbiome Damage 24:11 - Human Microbiome Project and Industry Messaging 26:42 - Strategies for Sensitive Skin Management 29:38 - Surface vs. Pore Microbiome and Preservative Impact 30:55 - Foaming Products and Cultural Cleanliness Norms 32:58 - Lifestyle, Diet, and Microbial Exposure 35:13 - Practical Routine Changes for Sensitive Skin 40:20 - Benefits of Improved Barrier Function and Formulation Insights 44:24 - Importance of Skin pH and Soap Critique 48:40 - Three Key Takeaways for Sensitive Skin 💬 Quote of the Episode

“Protect your sebum. The natural oils on your skin are really impressive.” – Trevor Steyn 🌐 Connect with ESSE Skincare

Skin As It Should Be – Details, episodes & analysis

Podcast details

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Skin As It Should Be – Details, episodes & analysis

Podcast details

Recent rankings

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

Shared links between episodes and podcasts

Other3

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RSS feed quality and score

Publication history

Latest published episodes

Similar podcasts and content

Related Shows Based on Content Similarities

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

Related Shows Based on Content Similarities

Other3

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