Ep 450 - The *New* Rules of Skin Brightening, Laser “Stacking” and Why Everyone is Freaking Out Over Xerf with Dermatologist Dr. Tia Paul
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Episode Recap
What if your best skin ever had nothing to do with Botox, fillers or even fancy skincare? This week we welcome Dr. Tia Paul, a Harvard- and MIT-trained, board-certified dermatologist—and major skin laser aficionado. As the founder of Balanced Skin Dermatology and Aesthetics in Newport Beach, California, Dr. Paul treats everything from acne, hyperpigmentation, eczema and psoriasis to skin cancer and she has earned over 400K followers on social media.
Tune in to find out how to achieve glass skin the non-gimmicky way, as Dr. Paul reveals everything to know about the most effective at-home brightening solutions, how-to navigate the world of professional lasers, and the “pyramid” framework she designed for a brighter skin game plan that won’t shock your skin or your credit card.
In this episode, we discuss:
Hydroquinone, tranexamic acid, azelaic acid, niacinamide — the new rules for skin brightening skincare in 2026
Lasers 101 — the difference between ablative and non-ablative lasers, vascular lasers and why the term “laser” itself is one of the most misused words in the beauty industry
What is laser “stacking” and why Dr. Paul says that combining technologies is where you get the best results
What’s all the fuss about Xerf? The new tightening device that's giving people snatched jawlines with zero downtime — Dr. Paul shares her experience.
Myth or reality? The truth about lasers on skin of colour — and what to ask before your appointment
Why the Fitzpatrick scale is outdated — according to Dr. Paul — and what she thinks should replace it to treat a full range of skin tones
Dr. Paul’s go-to’s: The laser that she personally swears by for glass skin, and the favourite sunscreen the derm will be using to maintain clear skin results all summer long
Disclaimer: Please note the discussion in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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Mentioned In This Episode
Products:
CurrentBody Red Light Mask (Dr. Paul's Personal Pick)
Supergoop Glow Screen (Dr. Paul's current sunscreen)
Lasers & In-Office Devices mentioned:
PicoSure Pro (picosecond laser by Cynosure)
Zerf (RF tightening device)
CO2 laser
Erbium laser
Morpheus8 (RF microneedling)
IPL (intense pulsed light)
BBL (broadband light)
XLV (532 laser, for redness/capillaries)
DermaV (vascular laser with built-in cooling)
Ultherapy
Thermage
In-Office Treatments
HydraFacial
Salicylic acid chemical peels
Neurotoxins/Botox
Disclaimer: Unless otherwise stated, all products reviewed are gratis media samples submitted for editorial consideration.
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For More Skincare Tips, Check Out These Past Youtube Episodes!
K-Beauty Secrets: Dermatologist Dr. David Kim on Salmon DNA, Glass Skin & Anti-Aging
Stress and Your Skin: Decoded with Dr. Amy Wechsler
Skincare Terms to Know Before Your Next Dermatologist Visit with Dr. Samantha Ellis
