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Explore every episode of the podcast Skincare Made Simple

Dive into the complete episode list for Skincare Made Simple. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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1–37 of 37

TitlePub. DateDuration
TikTok Skincare Favorites: Viral Tips That ACTUALLY Work16 Jan 202500:27:48

Welcome back to Skincare Made Simple! In today’s episode, we’re diving into the best-performing videos from my TikTok account and the skincare advice you loved the most. From barrier repair tips to hyperpigmentation hacks, this roundup is packed with practical advice you can start using right now to achieve healthier, glowing skin.

Products Mentioned in This Episode:

Barrier Products

Hyperpigmentation Products

ClearStem - Code YOURESTIEELLA for 15% off

Shop My Shelf

Work with me virtually 1-1

Let's be fiends on socials;

TikTok

Instagram

Youtube - Videos coming soon

Why You NEED a Base Routine05 Sep 202300:28:57
How many steps do you actually need in your skincare routine? 3? 5? 10??? Well in today's episode we're going to talk all about which products make the perfect base routine and why you should put a focus on building this routine in the first place! Shop My ShelfLets be friends on Instagram Lets be friends on TikTokVirtual Skin Analysis & FREE 30 Days to Healthier Skin Calendar
Adult Acne - Reasons & Solutions 09 Aug 202200:22:02

There's no other way to say it...acne sucks! And the only thing worse than acne is Adult Acne! In this episode we're going to talk about the main causes of acne, 3 treatments you can incorporate, and 3 lifestyle changes to make so you can enjoy clear, radiant skin!

Lets be friends on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/your.estie.ella/

Lets be friends on TikTok! https://www.tiktok.com/@your.estie.ella

Shop My Shelf https://pro.shopmyshelf.us/ellaelston

Consults https://pro.shopmyshelf.us/ellaelston/consults

Hormonal Acne - Your Skin & Cycle 12 Jul 202200:24:00

Our hormones play a role in every aspect of our lives so can you imagine how much better your life and skin would be if you could time what mask you use, food you ate, and events you planned based on your hormones??

Lets be friends on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/your.estie.ella/

Lets be friends on TikTok! https://www.tiktok.com/@your.estie.ella

Shop My Shelf https://pro.shopmyshelf.us/ellaelston

Consults https://pro.shopmyshelf.us/ellaelston/consults

Practice Safe Sun28 Jun 202200:21:11

Now that it's fully summer, we're all talking about sunscreen but do you know which one to get for your skin type? Or even why you should wear it other than to prevent burns? In this episode we're going to talk all things sun protection from different forms to how often you need to apply to risks of skin cancer and more! As always thank you for joining me today and every Tuesday <3

American Cancer Society https://www.cancer.org/cancer/skin-cancer.html

Lets be friends! https://www.instagram.com/your.estie.ella/

Shop My Shelf https://pro.shopmyshelf.us/ellaelston

Consults https://pro.shopmyshelf.us/ellaelston/consults

3 Steps to Sustainable Skincare21 Jun 202200:14:09

If we're going to use daily skincare then we should do everything in our power to make sure that we're not polluting our beautiful planet while we take care of ourselves! In this episode I'm going to share 3 simple tips to make your skincare journey not only work for you but also Mother Earth!

Lets be friends! https://www.instagram.com/your.estie.ella/

Shop My Shelf https://pro.shopmyshelf.us/ellaelston

Consults https://pro.shopmyshelf.us/ellaelston/consults

Exfoliation part 214 Jun 202200:20:15

Now that you know what kind of exfoliant you need, lets talk about the formula details. In this episode we're going to talk about exfoliating face washes, serums, and masks, mixing acids, and more! Thanks for joining me here every Tuesday!

Let's be friends!! https://www.instagram.com/your.estie.ella/

Shop My Shelf https://pro.shopmyshelf.us/ellaelston

Let's work on your skin together! https://pro.shopmyshelf.us/ellaelston/consults

Are You Exfoliating Properly?08 Jun 202200:19:44

Exfoliating can do wonders for your skin...when done properly. In this episode we're going to talk about the difference between chemical and physical exfoliants, which acid is right for your skin, and how to maximize your results! Thanks for joining me here every Tuesday!

Let's be friends!! https://www.instagram.com/your.estie.ella/

Shop My Shelf https://pro.shopmyshelf.us/ellaelston

Let's work on your skin together! https://pro.shopmyshelf.us/ellaelston/consults

Barrier Layer, Hero or Villan?31 May 202200:27:34

We all have a barrier layer on our skin to protect us but when it's not working right it can cause all sorts of chaos! Today we're talking about what it's supposed to do, what it can do if you neglect it, and how to repair it if it's already gone haywire! Thanks for joining me here every Tuesday!

Let's be friends!! https://www.instagram.com/your.estie.ella/

Shop My Shelf https://pro.shopmyshelf.us/ellaelston

Let's work on your skin together! https://pro.shopmyshelf.us/ellaelston/consults

Imposter Skin Types24 May 202200:20:57

Skin types are genetic, skin conditions can be healed...so are you trying to fix your skin type or condition?

Let's be friends!

https://www.instagram.com/your.estie.ella/

Shop My Shelf

https://pro.shopmyshelf.us/ellaelston

Consults

https://pro.shopmyshelf.us/ellaelston/consults

What's your skin type?24 May 202200:16:37

Everyone's skin is different but we each have a genetic skin type that we have to work with. Let's talk about the 4 different skin types and how you should take care of each one!

Let's be friends!

https://www.instagram.com/your.estie.ella/

Shop My Shelf

https://pro.shopmyshelf.us/ellaelston

Consults

https://pro.shopmyshelf.us/ellaelston/consults

How to build your base skincare routine24 May 202200:16:09

Welcome to episode one of Skincare Made Simple! In this episode we're going to talk about the base routine everyone should have regardless of their skin type & concerns. This will be a vital building block for your skincare routine as it will give you a starting point to build off of along with a home to go back to if you skin ever has issues in the future!

Let's be fiends!!

https://www.instagram.com/your.estie.ella/

Want to know my favorite products for each skin type/concern?

https://pro.shopmyshelf.us/ellaelston/shelves

How to get a virtual skin analysis with me!

https://pro.shopmyshelf.us/ellaelston/consults

Are Collagen Supplements Actually Doing Anything?16 Aug 202300:11:30

We've all seen ads or know someone who takes collagen but is it actually helping with anti-aging? In today's episode we're going to go over all of it! Shop My ShelfLets be friends on Instagram Lets be friends on TikTokVirtual Skin Analysis & FREE 30 Days to Healthier Skin CalendarShop Collagen Supplements Here

Is Your Barrier Health Causing Your Skin Texture?08 Aug 202300:18:10
What would you say if I told you that you can have the perfect skin texture if you focused on the health of your skin's barrier?? Let's talk alllllll about how to improve and maintain the health of your skin's barrier layer so you can minimize skin texture and have the smooth, glowing skin you deserve! Shop My ShelfLets be friends on Instagram Lets be friends on TikTokVirtual Skin Analysis & FREE 30 Days to Healthier Skin Calendar
Are Free Radicals Causing All Your Skin Issues?01 Aug 202300:15:38
We all know that we should have a vitamin c serum in our routine but no one ever talks about why.....it's because of free radicals! Lets do a deep dive into these pesky little cell disruptors and how you can properly protect yourself from the damage they causeShop My ShelfLets be friends on Instagram Lets be friends on TikTokVirtual Skin Analysis & FREE 30 Days to Healthier Skin Calendar
So What Are Peptides?25 Jul 202300:07:37

There are lots of buzz words in the skincare and beauty industry but peptides aren't one of them! In this shorter episode we'll discuss what peptides are and how to incorporate them into your routine.Let's be friends on Instagram Let's be friends on TikTokWork with me 1 on 1Shop My Shelf

Do You REALLY Need to Hydrate Your Skin?18 Jul 202300:16:24
We all know that moisturizer is a part of the average skincare routine but do you really need it? What if you have super oily skin? What about facial oils? Today we're going to cover all of this so you know exactly what you do and don't need in order to achieve optimal overall skin health!Lets be friends on Instagram Lets be friends on TikTokMini humidifier Favorite Amazon Sheet MasksShop My Shelf
All About Skin Cycling07 Jul 202300:24:23
It's no secret that I LOVE skin cycling and today we're going to break it all down! Skin cycling doesn't need to be complicated and yes it an help with any and every skin concern! This is simply a blueprint that you can customize in any way you need to to suit your skin needs.Work with me one on one HERELet's be friends on InstagramLet's be friends on TikTokShop My Shelf
Google's Most Asked Acne Questions13 Sep 202200:19:39

You Google'd it so I'm answering it! For this fun simple episode I googles "who does acne..." "what does acne..." "when does acne..." "where does acne..." "why does acne..." and "how does acne..." and explain the answer for the first search result that came up!

Lets be friends on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/your.estie.ella/

Lets be friends on TikTok! https://www.tiktok.com/@your.estie.ella

Shop My Shelf https://pro.shopmyshelf.us/ellaelston

Consults https://pro.shopmyshelf.us/ellaelston/consults

3 Things I WON'T do as an Esthetician16 Aug 202200:19:18

If you've been on social media over the last few months then you've probable see the trend of professionals saying things they will not do because of what they've seen while working. I thought it'd be fun to share my take on this and tell you a few things that I will never do with my skin!

Lets be friends on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/your.estie.ella/

Lets be friends on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@your.estie.ella?lang=en

Work with me 1:1 https://pro.shopmyshelf.us/ellaelston/consults

Shop My Shelf https://pro.shopmyshelf.us/ellaelston/shelves

Teen Skincare 10107 Apr 202500:35:24

In this episode, we’re diving into everything teens (and their parents) need to know about skincare. From hormonal breakouts to ingredient overload on social media, I break down what really works, what to avoid, and how to build a simple, effective routine that supports long-term skin health. Whether you're a teen navigating your first breakout or a parent trying to help without overwhelming your kid, this one’s for you.

Work with me 1-1

Shop Products in this episode

Shop My Shelf

Lets be friends on TikTok

Skincare Trends to Know + The Podcast Returns!05 Sep 202500:20:38

Hey friends! I’m back behind the mic, and we’re kicking off this fresh podcast era with a juicy episode all about skincare trends—what’s hot, what’s not, and what I actually recommend to my clients.

We’ll chat:

  • Skincare Trends (and which ones I’m loving 👀)
  • Why I paused the podcast + what to expect moving forward
  • A reminder that good skin isn’t built on hype—it’s built on consistency 💛

💻 Links Mentioned:

Thanks for being here. The Skincare Made Simple community is truly the best!!

Ectoin, PDRN, & Growth Factors....Worth it or just trendy??24 Sep 202500:22:02

Today we’re diving into three powerhouse ingredients that are changing the game in skin health and rejuvenation: Ectoin, PDRN, and Growth Factors. These aren’t your everyday skincare buzzwords—they’re science-backed, clinically researched actives that are showing real promise in calming inflammation, repairing the skin barrier, and even supporting long-term anti-aging.

You’ll learn what the science says about their effectiveness, the best types of formulas to look for, and how they fit into a well-rounded skincare routine.

Whether you’re an esthetician, skincare enthusiast, or someone curious about the next generation of treatments, this episode will give you a clear, approachable understanding of these advanced ingredients—without the fluff.

🔗 Links:

Shop everything mentioned in this video here: https://shopmy.us/collections/2430340

MEDIK8 | Liquid Peptides Advanced Face Serum: https://go.shopmy.us/p-26105796

INNBEAUTY PROJECT | Elastic Skin Firming & Plumping Refillable Serum: https://go.shopmy.us/p-26105805

DR. WHITNEY BOWE BEAUTY | Peptide + HA Plumping Serum: https://go.shopmy.us/p-26105820

Ecto-Pdrn 10% Extreme Dose (1.014 Fl.oz) Korean Anti-Aging Serum With Vegan Pdrn, Ectoin & Panthenol : https://go.shopmy.us/p-26105883

BIODANCE | Rejuvenating Caviar PDRN Real Deep Mask: https://go.shopmy.us/p-26105890

ALLIES OF SKIN | Multi Peptides & Gf (Growth Factor) Advanced Lifting Serum: https://go.shopmy.us/p-26105910

Shop more of my favorite products here: https://shopmy.us/ellaelston

Is Period Acne Avoidable?! And The Clear by New Year Challenge!28 Sep 202500:42:23

In today’s episode, we’ll walk through all four phases of the cycle — menstrual, follicular, ovulatory, and luteal — and break down what’s happening hormonally, how your skin tends to behave during each phase, and how to better support your skin and body with targeted care, foods, movement, supplements, and habits.

Whether you’re dealing with monthly breakouts, dullness, dryness, or inflammation — understanding your cycle can be the missing link in building a routine that actually works with your skin, not against it.

PLUS, this episode also marks the soft launch of my Clear by New Year Challenge, a free 90-day skin health reset starting October 1st. AND I’ve got the inside scoop on the Clearstem 23% off sitewide sale, happening Sept 29–30 only 👀

🔗 Links:

Shop everything mentioned in this video here: https://shopmy.us/collections/2457168

Murad Acne Control Rapid Relief Acne Sulfur Mask: https://go.shopmy.us/p-26384657

TOPICALS | Clearly Clarifying & Calming Mask : https://go.shopmy.us/p-26384670

Mindbodyskin: https://go.shopmy.us/p-26384718

Mindbodyskin 2: https://go.shopmy.us/p-26384743

ZITSTICKA | Undercover: https://go.shopmy.us/p-26384755

Shop more of my favorite products here: https://shopmy.us/ellaelston

Is your skin damaged or just a little angry? (and how to fix it)09 Oct 202500:19:44

Is your skin barrier actually damaged — or is it just throwing a little tantrum? In this episode, Ella breaks down one of the most misunderstood topics in skincare: how to tell the difference between temporary irritation and true barrier damage. You’ll learn what your barrier really is, how it protects you, the common mistakes that wreck it, and simple, science-backed steps to heal and strengthen your skin again.

🔗 Links:

✨ If You Loved This Episode:

  • Share it with a friend who’s overdoing their exfoliation!
  • Tag Ella in your stories and let her know your biggest takeaway @your.estie.ella
  • Leave a review — it helps more people learn how to simplify skincare the smart way.

🧴 Ingredients to Know

Surfactants (Cleansing Agents)

These are the ingredients that make cleansers foam and remove dirt, oil, and makeup. The right surfactant will cleanse without stripping your skin’s natural oils.

Gentle surfactants to look for:

  • Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate
  • Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate
  • Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate
  • Coco-Glucoside / Decyl Glucoside
  • Disodium / Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate

Stripping surfactants to avoid (especially as the first ingredient):

  • Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)
  • Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
  • TEA-Lauryl Sulfate

Humectants (Hydration Magnets)

Humectants are ingredients that attract and hold onto water in the skin — kind of like a sponge pulling moisture from your environment or your deeper skin layers. They keep your complexion plump, soft, and hydrated.

Common humectants to look for:

  • Glycerin
  • Hyaluronic Acid
  • Beta-Glucan
  • Panthenol (Vitamin B5)
  • Sodium PCA

Soothing + Calming Ingredients

When your barrier is feeling sensitive or reactive, these ingredients help calm inflammation and support repair. They can be found in toners, serums, or moisturizers.

Soothing superstars:

  • Centella Asiatica (Cica)
  • Ectoin
  • Allantoin
  • Madecassoside
  • Bisabolol
  • Green Tea Extract
  • PDRN (for advanced skin repair)
How to Gently Add Actives Back In + Seasonal Survival Tips03 Nov 202500:16:15

Your barrier’s on the mend—but now what? In this week’s episode, Ella breaks down how to tell when your skin is truly healing and how to safely reintroduce actives like exfoliants, retinoids, and vitamin C without undoing your progress.

You’ll learn: ✨ The top signs your skin barrier is bouncing back (beyond just “it feels less dry”) ✨ How to reintroduce actives like a pro—without flaking, burning, or purging all over again ✨ Three must-know skincare tweaks to survive the seasonal shift and keep your glow steady

Whether you’ve been on a full skin detox or just trying to baby your barrier through the colder months, this episode will help you get back to actives confidently and keep your skin calm, clear, and hydrated.

🔗 Links:

🧪 Barrier Loving Ingredients to Know

Beta-Glucan: A powerful humectant that deeply hydrates and soothes irritation while strengthening the skin barrier.

Centella Asiatica (Cica): A calming botanical that speeds up healing, reduces redness, and supports collagen production.

Panthenol (Vitamin B5): A moisture magnet that softens, smooths, and restores the skin’s protective barrier.

Ectoin: A stress-protective molecule that shields skin from pollution, temperature changes, and dehydration.

Allantoin: A gentle soothing agent that helps calm irritation and promote skin cell regeneration.

Peptides: Short chains of amino acids that signal your skin to produce more collagen and elastin for firmer, smoother texture.

Growth Factors: Bio-identical proteins that encourage cell renewal and repair, improving tone, texture, and resilience.

Peptides Made Simple: Everything you need to know about adding a peptide product to your skincare routine 03 Mar 202600:32:46

Peptides are one of the most hyped skincare ingredients right now—but what do they actually do? In this episode, we break down peptides in simple, no-BS terms. You’ll learn what peptides are, the different types used in skincare, what results are realistic, how to choose a peptide serum, and whether you really need peptides in every product. Plus, I’ll share some of my favorite peptide products at both luxury and budget-friendly price points.

If peptides have ever confused you—or felt overpromised—this episode will make it click.

🔗 Links:

Peptides mentioned in this episode

Liquid Peptides Advanced MP Serum: https://go.shopmy.us/p-45564299

DR. WHITNEY BOWE BEAUTY | Peptide + HA Plumping Serum: https://go.shopmy.us/p-45564313

MEDIK8 | Liquid Peptides: https://go.shopmy.us/p-45564326

COSRX | The 6 Peptide Skin Booster Serum: https://go.shopmy.us/p-45564355

GOOD MOLECULES | Super Peptide Serum: https://go.shopmy.us/p-45564899

NATURIUM | Multi-Peptide Advanced Serum: https://go.shopmy.us/p-45564915

PEACH & LILY | Copper Peptide Pro Firming Serum: https://go.shopmy.us/p-45564947

BUBBLE SKINCARE | Water Slide Hydrating Serum: https://go.shopmy.us/p-45564997

Shop more of my favorite products here: https://shopmy.us/ellaelston

A few relevant peptide studies (more linked in the Peptide Database)

Lee E, Ahn DK, Kim JH, et al. Skin Anti-Aging and Moisturizing Effects of Low-Molecular-Weight Collagen Peptide Supplementation in Healthy Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial. J Microbiol Biotechnol. 2025;35:e2507008. Published 2025 Sep 11. doi:10.4014/jmb.2507.07008

Skibska A, Perlikowska R. Signal Peptides - Promising Ingredients in Cosmetics. Curr Protein Pept Sci. 2021;22(10):716-728. doi:10.2174/1389203722666210812121129

Badilli U, Inal O. Current Approaches in Cosmeceuticals: Peptides, Biotics and Marine Biopolymers. Polymers (Basel). 2025 Mar 18;17(6):798. doi: 10.3390/polym17060798. PMID: 40292641; PMCID: PMC11946782.

PDRN 101 — What It Is, Where It Comes From & How to Pick a Good One05 Mar 202600:12:27

PDRN is having a major moment in skincare — and for good reason. In this bite-size episode, we're breaking down everything you actually need to know about polydeoxyribonucleotide (yes, that's a mouthful): what it does, why the source matters more than you might think, and how to read a label so you're not just buying the hype.

🐟 What we cover:

  • What PDRN is and why it started in medicine, not beauty
  • How it works and what the studies say
  • Salmon-derived PDRN vs. Centella (plant-based/phyto) PDRN — the research gap, the biocompatibility argument, and what each does well
  • What to actually look for on a label (ingredient names, concentration clues, delivery systems)
  • Who each source is best suited for
  • & more!

🔗 Links:

Favorite topical PDRN products

REJURAN | Rejuran Turnover Ampoule C-PDRN 0.5% Renewing Serum for Smooth Texture & Glass Skin 1.01 Oz/30 mL: https://go.shopmy.us/p-46008243

REJURAN | Rejuran Turnover Mask C-PDRN 5-Pack for Uneven Texture & Brightening Dull Skin 1.35 Fl. oz./40 mL X 5 Sheets: https://go.shopmy.us/p-46008254

ANUA | PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Capsule 100 Serum: https://go.shopmy.us/p-46008112

ANUA | PDRN Hyaluronic Acid 100 Moisturizing Cream: https://go.shopmy.us/p-46008122

Shop more of my favorite products here: https://shopmy.us/ellaelston

Copper Peptides & Acne Scars....They're Related??16 Mar 202600:11:36

If you haven't listened to the copper peptides episode yet — go back and start there. This mini episode builds directly on it, and it'll make a lot more sense with that context.

This week we're zooming in on one specific molecule involved in how copper peptides actually repair the skin: decorin. It doesn't get nearly enough airtime in the skincare conversation, and for acne-prone skin especially, it's a pretty big deal.

📌 What we cover:

  • What decorin actually is
  • Why just stimulating collagen isn't enough
  • What happens during prolonged inflammation like acne?
  • Why cystic acne scars more severely
  • How decorin changes with age — and why this is part of the aging story almost nobody is talking about
  • Can topical options that can actually influence decorin?

🔗 Resources mentioned:

  • 🗂️ The Peptide Database — find products with Tripeptide-10 Citrulline (and GHK-Cu) at meaningful levels, without the marketing noise
  • 📚 Skincare Made Simple: The Course — build a routine that addresses all of this in the right order for your specific skin
Copper Peptides Made Simple: The Beauty Peptide Deep Dive11 Mar 202600:38:54

GHK-Cu — aka copper peptides — has been crowned the "beauty peptide," but the real story is way bigger than anti-aging marketing. In this episode, we go deep on why this molecule (one your body already makes and relies on for repair) might be one of the most important things you can add to both your skincare routine and your supplement stack.

In this episode:

  • What GHK-Cu actually is and why it's different from signal peptides
  • How your natural GHK-Cu levels drop by more than half between ages 20–60 — and why that matters
  • The vitamin C + retinoid compatibility conversation — what actually matters and what you can stop worrying about
  • How to work copper peptides into your routine and what to look for on the ingredient list (hint: copper tripeptide-1)

🔗 Links:

Products Mentioned

PEACH & LILY | Copper Peptide Pro Firming Serum: https://go.shopmy.us/p-45564947

INNBEAUTY PROJECT | Elastic Skin Firming Serum: https://go.shopmy.us/p-46892245

MEDIK8 | Liquid Peptides: https://go.shopmy.us/p-45564326

BIOSSANCE | Squalane + Copper Peptide Plumping Serum: https://go.shopmy.us/p-46892540

Literature to read:

  • The big one: PMC4508379 — "GHK Peptide as a Natural Modulator of Multiple Cellular Pathways in Skin Regeneration"
  • PMC6073405 — "Regenerative and Protective Actions of the GHK-Cu Peptide"
  • MDPI Cosmetics 2018 — "Skin Regenerative and Anti-Cancer Actions of Copper Peptides" — has some fascinating context on Lester Pickart who basically discovered GHK-Cu
The Skin Barrier Made Simple: What It Is, What Damages It, and Why It Affects Everything21 Apr 202600:33:18

If your skin has been dry, tight, red, bumpy, stinging, or just… not responding to anything you throw at it, start here. Almost every skin concern you're dealing with is either caused by, worsened by, or masking a barrier problem — and today we're going all the way back to the foundation.

🧠 In this episode:

  • What the skin barrier actually is (spoiler: as thin as a sheet of printer paper)
  • The brick wall analogy — corneocytes, lipid matrix, and why ceramides are ~50% of your mortar
  • Natural Moisturizing Factor, the acid mantle, and transepidermal water loss (TEWL) as the real indicator of barrier health
  • Why Korean skincare "works" (hint: barrier focus, not magic potions)
  • & More!

📚 The research:

✨ Products mentioned:

🔗 Links:

If this episode made something click for you, send it to the friend whose skincare routine is currently stressing their skin out — and if you have a sec, leaving a review genuinely helps the pod more than you know. 🤍

Life is difficult. Skincare shouldn't be.

Talk soon, Ella Skincare Made Simple

Sunscreen Made Simple - Everything you need to know about the most important part of your skincare routine 16 Apr 202600:40:14

In this episode, we're breaking down why sunscreen isn't just "the anti-aging step" — it's the step that makes every other step in your routine actually worth doing. If those UV rays keep undoing your progress, it doesn't matter how fancy your serum is.

🧪 Studies + sources referenced

- The 80–90% photoaging statistic — Flament et al., Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology (2013), which quantified sun damage percentage in facial aging. (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3790843/)

- The twin study — Guyuron et al., Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (2009), "Factors Contributing to the Facial Aging of Identical Twins."(https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19337100/)

- The sunscreen-absorption study I mentioned — Matta et al., JAMA (2019), (https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2733085)

- The follow-up absorption study — Matta et al., JAMA (2020), (https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2759002)

🧴 What I personally use + recommend

- My everyday sunscreen: InnBeauty Project Mineral Sun Glow (PA+++, tinted to counteract white cast, three shades)

- Body sunscreen I actually enjoy: Hempz SPF 30 and SPF 50 body lotions (smells like their regular lotions, not like sunscreen)

- Kids' sunscreen sticks: Skin1004 and Cell Fusion C sticks — easy enough for my five- and eight-year-old to apply themselves

- Touch-up for oily skin: Naked Sundays setting spray SPF 30

🔗 Links:

And if you have someone in your life who still isn't wearing one — send this their way. You care about them. I care about them. We just want everyone protected.

Get your annual skin check. Reapply when you're outside. Don't forget your ears.

Skin Types vs Skin Conditions Made Simple: Why You've Probably Been Treating the Wrong Thing28 Apr 202600:19:08

Most skincare confusion comes down to one thing: mixing up what your skin is with what your skin is currently doing. In this episode, Ella breaks down the four skin types, the most common skin conditions (including the oily-and-dehydrated combination that trips everyone up), and why accurately identifying both changes every product decision you make.

Topics covered:

  • The four skin types and how to identify yours with the bare face test
  • Why combination skin is the most common type and what that actually means for your routine
  • Skin conditions: dehydration, sensitization, acne, hyperpigmentation, barrier damage
  • The oily skin stripping cycle — and how to break it
  • The routine-building framework: address conditions first, optimize for type

🔗 Links:

Skincare Q & A: Purging, Teen Acne, First Time Retinoid Use, Body Care, Vitamin C After 50, & More! 05 Jun 202600:59:06

A little something different this week. I pulled the best moments from a recent Wednesday TikTok Live and brought them straight to your ears. Think of it as a rapid-fire Q&A — purging, pigmentation, first-time retinoids, body shaving care, and a whole lot of "please stop adding products before you've maxed out the ones you have." As always, every product mentioned is linked below, plus all the ways to work with me and grab your free skin tracker.

🔗 Links:

Sunscreen Made Simple: Mineral vs Chemical | New Filters | UV Index | & More!30 Jul 202600:26:45

The ingredient people complain about the most is the single one that'll make the biggest difference in your skin — and no, it's not a retinoid or a fancy peptide. It's your sunscreen.

This week we're getting into why SPF is the highest-leverage thing you can do for your skin (prevention is cheaper and easier than reversal), the difference between UVB and the UVA rays nobody talks about, chemical vs. mineral without the fear-mongering, what those "sunscreen in your bloodstream" studies actually found, and the new filter the FDA finally approved in June — what it is, and when you'll actually see it on shelves.

No demonizing, no overclaiming. Just the nuance, from a friend who did the research so you don't have to.

🔗 Links:

🔬 Studies Referenced

  • Matta MK, et al. Effect of Sunscreen Application Under Maximal Use Conditions on Plasma Concentration of Sunscreen Active Ingredients: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA. 2019;321(21):2082–2091. doi:10.1001/jama.2019.5586
  • Matta MK, et al. Effect of Sunscreen Application on Plasma Concentration of Sunscreen Active Ingredients: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA. 2020;323(3):256–267. doi:10.1001/jama.2019.20747

🧴 Products Mentioned:

TOWER 28 - SOS FaceGuard SPF 30 Mineral Sunscreen:

https://go.shopmy.us/p-75715149

CERAVE | Invisible Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 Face:

https://go.shopmy.us/p-75715156

Skin1004 | Pro Bio Cica Glow Sun Ampoule:

https://go.shopmy.us/p-75715160

INNBEAUTY PROJECT | Mineral Sun Glow Broad Spectrum SPF 43 Pa +++ With Peptides And Vitamin C:

https://go.shopmy.us/p-75715175

BEAUTY OF JOSEON - Day Dew Sunscreen 50 Ml:

https://go.shopmy.us/p-75715188

Medik8 UK | Advanced Day Ultimate Protect+

https://go.shopmy.us/p-75716920

Cabanamilk Mineral Barrier Fluid SPF 50:

https://go.shopmy.us/p-75715327

Loved this one?

A share and a 5-star review genuinely helps more people find clear, healthy skin. And don't forget to reapply. 🌞

Skincare Shopping Made Simple: Reviewing Ulta's Newest Skincare | How to Actually Shop Skincare23 Jul 202600:57:07

There are hundreds of new skincare products hitting Ulta every month—but which ones are actually worth your money?

In this episode, I'm scrolling through Ulta's newest skincare launches and giving you my honest first impressions! We dive into the ingredient lists, look past the marketing claims, and talk about what these products are actually designed to do and who they might be right for!

We'll cover:

✨ Which new launches genuinely caught my attention

✨ Why ingredient percentages matter more than flashy marketing

✨ How to tell if a product is truly acne-friendly

✨ The difference between ingredients that sound impressive and those that actually have research behind them

Resources & Links

• Take the FREE Skin Profile Quiz

• Try my FREE Ingredient Checker

• Explore my skin-specific mini courses

• Work with me 1-on-1

Products Mentioned:

Daily D-Clog Pore-Clearing Cleanser -:

Silkfoliant Daily Tri-Acid Smoothing Toner With Mandelic Acid -:

ANUA - PDRN Caffeine Rejuvenating Eye Cream:

RAEL - Glow with Your Flow Miracle Patch Kit:

Madeca Derma Shield Vital Dewy Sunscreen Cream SPF 50+:

Madeca Azelaic Acid 10+ Calming Serum:

Glow Potion Illuminating Superfood Serum:

The Power Move Ectoine Hydrating & Plumping Facial Serum:

Facialrx Daily Peel Pads:

COSRX - One Step Original Clear Skin Calming Pad:

White Truffle 2-In-1 Exfoliating & Glow Toner Pads:

Tx-Astaxanthin Anti-Dark Spot & Brightening Capsule Cream:

ORIGINS - Youthtopia Apple Jelly Lip Balm:

Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Teca Plumping Ampoule:

Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Teca Glass Skin Milk:

COSRX - The Blue Peptide Bakuchiol Plump Glow Serum:

Barrier Repair Made Simple: What to do and what NOT to do when your barrier is damaged....or is your barrier just irritated?14 Aug 202600:49:59

Barrier repair isn’t about finding one miracle ingredient—or buying the first moisturizer with “barrier care” written on the label.

In this episode of Skincare Made Simple, we're breaking down what your skin actually needs during active barrier repair, how that differs from everyday barrier maintenance, and why the famous 3-1-1 lipid ratio isn’t something you can calculate by reading an ingredient list.

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

If this episode helped you, share it with someone whose skin barrier is currently begging for a break. You can also support Skincare Made Simple by leaving a review wherever you listen.

Products Mentioned;

REMEDY SKIN | Multi-Depth Moisture Advanced Hydrating Serum

REMEDY SKIN | Remedy For Light Moisture

REMEDY SKIN | Remedy For Moisturizing - Rich Cream

DR. SAM BUNTING | Flawless Moisturiser Balance

DR. SAM BUNTING | Flawless Moisturiser Intense

PURITO SEOUL | Mighty Bamboo Panthenol Cream

Numbuzin No.1 Pure-Full Calming Herb Toner

SKIN1004 | Probio-Cica Intensive Ampoule Serum:

SKIN1004 - Madagascar Centella Teca Ampoule:

Iunik Beta-Glucan Power Deep Moisture Vegan Serum :

FIRST AID BEAUTY | Ultra Repair Hydrating Pillow Pads with Colloidal Oatmeal + Ceramides:

BIOSSANCE | Squalane + Antioxidant Cleansing Oil

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