Are you washing your face the right way? Is double cleansing always necessary? And why do dermatologists say that "squeaky clean" skin is actually a bad thing? In this episode of the After Hours Skin Clinic podcast, Consultant Dermatologists Dr Emma Craythorne and Dr Ellie Rashid explain everything you need to know about facial cleansers, skin barriers and how to choose the right cleanser for your skin type. From acne-prone skin and eczema to rosacea and sensitive skin, Emma and Ellie break down how cleansers work, why some can damage your skin barrier, and why an expensive cleanser isn't necessarily a better one. You'll learn why cleansing is one of the most important steps in your skincare, how easy it is to get wrong, and how using the incorrect product could be undoing the benefits of the rest of your routine. This episode covers: Are you washing your face the right way? Yes, there is a right way! Why "squeaky clean" skin is a warning sign How cleansers actually work The truth about double cleansing How to choose the right cleanser for your skin type The difference between cream, foaming and salicylic acid cleansers Cleansers for acne, rosacea, eczema and sensitive skin Why your skin barrier matters Should you use hot or cold water? How long should you cleanse for? Do expensive cleansers work better? Should you wash your face in the morning? Are cleansing brushes and facial scrubs damaging your skin? Emma and Ellie also explain why cleanser is one of the most important steps in any skincare routine, how to avoid over-cleansing, and the simple techniques they recommend to patients every day in clinic. This episode includes a paid partnership with @cerave, a skincare brand developed with dermatologists, focused on repairing and strengthening the skin barrier. Emma and Ellie discuss the different CeraVe cleanser formulations and how they may suit different skin types and concerns. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by the number of cleansers available, or wondered whether you're actually cleansing your skin correctly, then this episode is for you. 👇 Let us know your skincare questions in the comments. 🔔 Subscribe for dermatologist-led, evidence-based skincare. 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts & Spotify. 🎥 Watch us on YouTube @afterhoursskinclinic. Find us on Instagram and TikTok @afterhoursskinclinic. Products mentioned: CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser CeraVe Foaming Cleanser CeraVe Blemish Control Cleanser CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser Dr Emma and Dr Ellie’s Cleanser cheat-sheet… Dry CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser Gently removes dirt while helping support the skin barrier with ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Sensitive CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser A gentle, non-stripping formula that's suitable for easily irritated skin. Eczema-prone CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser Cleanses without leaving skin feeling tight or "squeaky clean". Rosacea-prone CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser A gentle cream cleanser that's less likely to disrupt an already sensitive skin barrier. Normal skin CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser or Foaming Cleanser Choose based on your preferred texture—cream or foam. Combination skin CeraVe Foaming Cleanser Removes excess oil while helping maintain the skin barrier. Oily skin CeraVe Foaming Cleanser Cleanses away oil and impurities without leaving skin stripped. Breakout-prone CeraVe Blemish Control Cleanser Contains 2% salicylic acid & Niacinamide. It Unclogs pores & helps regulate excess oil. Also suitable for those who may be prone to acne. Blackheads & clogged pores CeraVe Blemish Control Cleanser Contains 2% salicylic acid. It penetrates & unclogs pores to help clear congestion. Bumpy Body Skin CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser Contains 2% Salicylic acid. It gently exfoliates while moisturising to help support the skin barrier. Also suitable for those prone to Keratosis Pilaris (KP). Body Breakouts CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser A practical body cleanser for breakout-prone areas. Also suitable for those who may be prone to acne on their body. Disclaimer: This cheat sheet is not part of the episode sponsorship, recommendations are Emma & Ellie’s own. Producer: Ella Blaxill Series Editor: Eve Streeter Music: Simon Elms This is a Raconteur Studios Production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What are the biggest skincare myths dermatologists wish everyone would stop believing? Here’s Consultant dermatologists Dr Emma Craythorne’s and Dr Ellie Rashid’s top ten skin truths. To celebrate the 100th episode of the After Hours Skin Clinic podcast, Consultant Dermatologists Dr Emma Craythorne and Dr Ellie Rashid share their ten biggest skin truths. Evidence-based advice they wish every patient knew. From sunscreen and pores to expensive skincare, hydration, dandruff and skin cancer, Emma and Ellie separate fact from fiction, debunk some of the internet's biggest skincare myths, and explain what really matters when it comes to healthy skin. Whether you're building your first skincare routine or trying to make sense of conflicting advice on social media, this episode is packed with practical, science-backed guidance from two consultant dermatologists. This episode covers: The biggest skincare myths dermatologists hear every day Can you really open and close your pores? Does shaving make hair grow back thicker? How to understand your own skin type Why "medical grade" skincare is mostly a marketing term Should you trust skincare claims and before-and-after photos? Does expensive skincare actually work better? Why consistency beats complicated skincare routines Why wearing sunscreen every day matters for skin ageing Does drinking more water hydrate your skin? What skin cancer really looks like (it's not what you might think) What dandruff actually is and why oils can make it worse Emma and Ellie also discuss why personalised skincare is more effective than copying someone else's routine, how to avoid misleading marketing claims, and the simple habits that have the biggest impact on long-term skin health. Whether you're new to skincare or a lifelong skincare enthusiast, these are the skin truths every dermatologist wishes more people knew. 👇 Let us know your thoughts in the comments Find us on ⁠Instagram⁠ 👀 Watch us on ⁠Youtube⁠ 🔔 Subscribe for dermatologist-led, evidence-based skincare. 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts & Spotify. Products mentioned: Nizoral® (Ketoconazole 2%) Shampoo Klira⁠ - Founded by Dr Emma Craythorne, Klira is a bespoke luxury skincare formula prescribed by dermatologists. You may hear it mentioned from time to time on the podcast and if you want to find out more head over to ⁠klira.skin⁠ Producer: Ella Blaxill Series Editor: Eve Streeter Music: Simon Elms This is a Raconteur Studios Production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Summer can be one of the easiest times to accidentally damage your skin. In this episode of the After Hours Skin Clinic podcast, Consultant Dermatologists Dr Emma Craythorne and Dr Ellie Rashid answer the questions they're asked every year about preparing your skin for summer. Should you wax before your holiday? Is a "base tan" ever a good idea? Do you need a complicated skincare routine on a flight? And can I use last year's sunscreen? Emma and Ellie explain how to time beauty treatments to minimise irritation and pigmentation, why sunbeds are never worth the risk, and how simple changes to your routine can help keep your skin healthy all summer long. This episode covers: Preparing your skin for summer Laser hair removal, waxing and shaving before holidays How to avoid post-inflammatory pigmentation Retinoids, exfoliating acids and summer skincare In-flight skincare myths Holiday acne and travel breakouts Perfume, essential oils and UV reactions Lime juice and phytophotodermatitis Why a "base tan" doesn't protect your skin The risks of sunbeds and skin cancer When to replace your sunscreen Favourite summer skincare essentials Whether you're planning a beach holiday, spending more time outdoors or simply want to protect your skin this summer, this episode is packed with practical, evidence-based advice from two consultant dermatologists. 👇 Let us know your thoughts in the comments 👀 Watch us on Youtube 🔔 Subscribe for dermatologist-led, evidence-based skincare. Products mentioned: Ultrasun Lip Protection SPF NUXE Huile Prodigieuse® Or (Shimmer Dry Oil) Producer: Ella Blaxill Series Editor: Eve Streeter Music: Simon Elms This is a Raconteur Studios Production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Consultant dermatologists Dr Emma Craythorne and Dr Ellie Rashid explain what keratosis pilaris (KP), also known as strawberry skin or chicken skin, actually is, why it develops around hair follicles, and which evidence-based treatments work best, including lactic acid, urea creams, chemical exfoliants, retinoids, moisturisers and laser hair removal. In this episode: What keratosis pilaris (KP) actually is Why people call it strawberry skin or chicken skin The real cause of keratosis pilaris Why KP often runs in families The connection between hair follicles, keratin and inflammation Why KP gets worse during winter The truth about physical exfoliation and scrubs Lactic acid vs salicylic acid: which works best? The role of urea creams and moisturisers When retinoids may help Why laser hair removal may be one of the most effective treatments How to prevent redness and pigmentation Key Takeaways: Keratosis pilaris affects around 50% of people Physical scrubbing can make KP worse Chemical exfoliants outperform mechanical exfoliation 10% lactic acid appears more effective than 5% salicylic acid Urea-based moisturisers help soften and smooth rough skin Consistent moisturising supports the skin barrier SPF helps prevent post-inflammatory pigmentation Laser hair removal may provide longer-term improvement Products Mentioned: Ameliorate Transforming Body Lotion Eucerin UreaRepair The Ordinary Glycolic Acid CeraVe SA Smoothing Range Cetaphil Salicylic Acid Range Subscribe for evidence-based skincare advice from consultant dermatologists. Follow & Connect: Instagram: @afterhoursskinclinic Email: [email protected] Producer: Ella Blaxill Exec: Eve Streeter Music by Simon Elms. This is a Raconteur Studios Production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Do mineral sunscreens really work better than chemical sunscreens? Are chemical filters actually harmful? And what should you believe when sunscreen misinformation is everywhere? In this episode of the After Hours Skin Clinic podcast, Consultant Dermatologists Dr Emma Craythorne and Dr Ellie Rashid tackle one of the most controversial topics in skincare: the debate between mineral and chemical sunscreens. From TikTok myths and conspiracy theories to concerns about ingredient absorption, coral reefs, vitamin D, and skin cancer, Emma and Ellie break down what the evidence actually says about sunscreen safety and effectiveness. They explain why sunscreen remains one of the most important tools we have for preventing skin cancer, pigmentation, and premature ageing — and why fear-based misinformation could be putting people at risk. This episode covers: Mineral vs chemical sunscreens: what's the difference? Are chemical sunscreen filters absorbed into the body? The truth about oxybenzone and sunscreen safety studies Why absorption does not equal toxicity Common sunscreen myths circulating on social media Do sunscreens cause cancer? What the evidence says about skin cancer prevention Coral reefs, environmental concerns, and sunscreen bans Can sunscreen cause vitamin D deficiency? Why UV exposure still damages skin, even in the UK How sunscreen helps prevent pigmentation and premature ageing The importance of UVA, UVB and visible light protection Why finding a sunscreen you enjoy using matters most The best sunscreen formulations for different skin types Emma and Ellie also share the sunscreens they regularly recommend in clinic, discuss why sunscreen technology has improved dramatically over the past decade, and explain why the "mineral versus chemical" debate isn't actually a competition at all. This episode includes a paid partnership with Eucerin, a skincare brand with a long history of dermatological research. During the episode, Emma and Ellie discuss Eucerin Oil Control Gel Cream SPF50+ and the formulation features that may make it suitable for oily and acne-prone skin. All opinions expressed remain those of the hosts. If you've ever felt confused by conflicting sunscreen advice online, this episode will help you separate evidence from misinformation. 👇 Let us know your thoughts in the comments 🔔 Subscribe for dermatologist-led, evidence-based skincare 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts & Spotify Products mentioned: Eucerin Oil Control Gel Cream SPF50+ Altruist Sunscreen Klira The DayScript Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Aqua-Fresh Rice Sunscreen Producer: Ella Blaxill Series Editor: Eve Streeter Music: Simon Elms This is a Raconteur Studios Production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Why do some people blush more than others? When is facial redness simply normal, and when could it be rosacea? In this episode of After Hours Skin Clinic, consultant dermatologists Dr Emma Craythorne and Dr Ellie Rashid discuss the causes of facial flushing, blushing and persistent redness, and explain the treatments available for rosacea and other common triggers. They cover the science behind emotional blushing, menopause-related flushing, alcohol flush reactions, visible facial blood vessels and chronic facial redness. They also share practical skincare advice, treatment options and dermatologist-recommended sunscreens for sensitive, rosacea-prone skin. Topics covered: Facial flushing and blushing Rosacea symptoms and diagnosis Menopause hot flushes Alcohol flush reaction Emotional blushing and anxiety Azelaic acid and ivermectin Brimonidine and beta blockers Laser treatment for redness Micro-Botox for rosacea Sunscreens for sensitive skin Products and Treatments Mentioned: Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser Azelaic Acid Ivermectin 1% Cream TretinoinBrimonidine Propranolol Carvedilol HRT Fezolinetant La Roche-Posay Anthelios Children's Fluid SPF La Roche-Posay Anthelios Comfort SPF Garnier Sensitive Advanced UV Fluid with Niacinamide & Hyaluronic Acid Follow & Connect: YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@AfterHoursSkinClinic Instagram: @afterhoursskinclinic Email: [email protected] Producer: Ella Blaxill Series Editor: Eve Streeter Music: Simon Elms A Raconteur Studios Production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Wish you had all the skincare advice and information you need in one place? This week's episode is a little different from your usual After Hours Skin Clinic. Dr Emma Craythorne has written a book, Skin: An Owner's Guide, and Dr Ellie Rashid is putting her in the hot seat to talk all about it. Emma shares why she swore she'd never write another book after her first experience, what inspired her to create Skin: An Owner's Guide, and the skin science she believes everyone should understand. From the skin barrier and microbiome to ageing, skincare ingredients and common skin conditions, this conversation is a behind-the-scenes look at the book Emma describes as her "love letter to skin". Plus, we'll be giving away signed copies of the book. To enter, head over to our Instagram Please check the competition dates before entering. ⁠Klira⁠ – Founded by Dr Emma Craythorne, Klira creates bespoke prescription skincare formulated by dermatologists. Find out more at klira.skin. Follow & Connect with us ⬇️ YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@AfterHoursSkinClinic Instagram: @afterhoursskinclinic Email: [email protected] Producer: Ella Blaxill Executive Producer: Eve Streeter Music: Simon Elms This is a Raconteur Studios production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dry hands are not just a winter problem and if your skin is cracking, stinging or constantly flaring, there is usually more going on than “just dryness.” In this episode of the After Hours Skin Clinic, Dr Emma Craythorne and Dr Ellie Rashid unpack the different types of hand dermatitis, why some people are genetically prone to eczema, and how everyday habits like over-washing, wet work and even handling receipts can quietly damage the skin barrier. They explain the difference between atopic eczema, irritant dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis and pompholyx eczema, including the hidden allergens that can keep hand eczema going for years without people realising it. They explore: Who is especially vulnerable to hand eczema The role of filaggrin and skin barrier dysfunction Why soap can make eczema dramatically worse How patch testing works and why it can completely change treatment outcomes The surprising reason some steroid creams can worsen eczema The best soap substitutes and moisturisers for dry, damaged hands How to protect hands properly with gloves and overnight treatments New prescription treatments for chronic hand eczema now available through specialist dermatology clinics There are also practical recommendations throughout the episode, including favourite dermatologist-approved hand creams, cleansers and barrier repair strategies that can genuinely improve painful fissures and chronic dryness. Products mentioned include: Dermol 500 Aveeno Hand Ointment CeraVe Healing Ointment La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Hands O’Keeffe’s Working Hands If your hands are persistently dry, cracked, itchy or inflamed - especially if treatments never seem to fully work - this episode explains what might be missing. Follow & Connect with us ⬇️ YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@AfterHoursSkinClinic  Instagram: ⁠@afterhoursskinclinic⁠ Email: ⁠[email protected]⁠ Producer: Ella Blaxill Exec: Eve Streeter Music by Simon Elms. This is a Raconteur Studios Production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Are you over-exfoliating your skin without realising it? In this episode, consultant dermatologists Dr Ellie Rashid and Dr Emma Craythorne explain what exfoliation actually does, how to get glowing skin safely, and why so many people damage their skin barrier chasing “glass skin”. They cover: The difference between chemical and physical exfoliation Why sensitive skin can react badly to exfoliants The real reason exfoliation increases sun sensitivity The best exfoliants for acne, dull skin and ageing skin Why retinoids often outperform scrubs and acids The truth about dermaplaning and whether hair grows back thicker Hidden exfoliants in skincare, including pineapple and papaya enzymes How to protect your skin barrier while still getting glowing skin If you want evidence-based skincare, honest dermatologist advice, and real answers about acne, pigmentation, ageing and skin health, this is the podcast for you. Follow & Connect with us ⬇️ YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@AfterHoursSkinClinic  Instagram: ⁠@afterhoursskinclinic⁠ Email: ⁠[email protected]⁠ Producer: Ella Blaxill Exec: Eve Streeter Music by Simon Elms. This is a Raconteur Studios Production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Why does your ponytail suddenly feel thinner? Why does your parting look wider in photos? And why are so many women told that hair thinning is “just part of ageing” ... with very little guidance on what to do next? In this episode of the After Hours Skin Clinic , consultant dermatologists Dr Emma Craythorne and Dr Ellie Rashid unpack the science, myths and emotional reality of female pattern hair loss. From hormonal shifts and nutritional deficiencies to stress, postpartum shedding and scalp inflammation, they explain why female hair thinning is often misunderstood and why early diagnosis matters more than most people realise. Expect evidence-based advice, practical treatment insights, and a few unexpectedly funny moments involving ketoconazole shampoo and a very confused patient. Inside this episode: What female pattern hair loss actually is (and why it’s different from male pattern baldness) The signs dermatologists look for during scalp examination and trichoscopy Why hair loss in women is often dismissed for too long The role of hormones, genetics, thyroid health, stress and menopause Iron, ferritin, zinc and vitamin D: the blood tests that really matter Why “hair vitamins” aren’t always the answer How dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis can affect scalp health and hair growth The truth about minoxidil, including the “dread shed” Oral minoxidil, spironolactone, finasteride and other medical treatments PRP, microneedling, laser-assisted delivery and LED helmets, what does the evidence actually say? Why postpartum hair shedding can sometimes uncover underlying female pattern hair loss When thinning hair could signal something more serious This episode is for anyone who has ever looked at their hairbrush, widened parting or thinning ponytail and wondered: is this normal and what can I do about it? Follow & Connect with us ⬇️ YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@AfterHoursSkinClinic  Instagram: ⁠@afterhoursskinclinic⁠ Email: ⁠[email protected]⁠ Producer: Ella Blaxill Exec: Eve Streeter Music by Simon Elms. This is a Raconteur Studios Production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices