Last year at 43, I had the worstcystic flareof my life.
As a frequent dermatology patient, Ive often had to tweak my skin-care products and prescriptions.
When the host,Dr.
These episodes helped me figure out a multifaceted, systemic approach that eventually got my acne under control.
Podcastshave become more helpful to me than any other acne resource.
And podcasts, quite simply, are portable, multitask-able, and on-demand.
Its really hard to have these long, in-depth conversations at your insurance-based dermatology practice, saysDr.
Mary Alice Mina, MD, a dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon atBaucom and Mina Derm Surgery.
Listeners can get thorough and deep insight into individual topics instead of a 2,000-character Instagram post.
Listening to podcasts helps ease that post-appointment anxiety.
A lot of my listeners have been dealing with acne for decades.
Like 10, 20, even 30 years in some cases.
Podcasts have also helped me take the same holistic approach.
Isotretinoin seemed like a drastic measure that didnt necessarily promise a long-lasting fix.
Emboldened by the advice Id been listening to in my podcast feed, I pursued alternative, nonmedical treatments.
I paid out-of-pocket to see a naturopath, who made recommendations based on food sensitivity and hormone tests.
Stewart says my experience reflects those of acne patients in her practice.
She hopes that podcasts will make information more accessible and provide acne sufferers an outlet without stress or judgment.
A lot of my listeners have been dealing with acne for decades.
Like 10, 20, even 30 years in some cases, she says.
Theyre like, When we listen to you guys, we finally feel seen and heard.
Oh my gosh, Im not crazy.
The symptoms that Im having are not normal, and I deserve to feel better.
*Name has been changed
