Beauty Bytes with Dr. Kay: Secrets of a Plastic Surgeon™

Have you ever wondered if those expensive "stem cell" IVs are actually regenerating your body, or if they are just an overpriced, temporary anti-inflammatory boost? In this episode of Beauty Bytes, I am joined by Dr. Adeel Khan, a board-certified sports medicine physician and the CEO of Eterna Health, to expose the myths, marketing jargon, and hard truths of the regenerative medicine industry. I first heard Dr. Khan speak at the Anti-Aging World Congress in Japan, and his breakdown of what is actually happening at a cellular level completely shifted my perspective on longevity. We tackle the uncomfortable reality that...

Chemical Peels, Hyperpigmentation, Spring Skincare Hacks - Join us in this week's Five Minute Friday where we talk about chemical peels, one of my favorite spring cleaning hacks for your skin! Chemical Peels have a variety of benefits. They can help diminish wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, acne, scarring, sunspots, and other conditions that leave your skin looking dull. In my practice, we offer a few different kinds of chemical peels to address your specific skin concerns, along with some take home kits as well! Tune in as we spill all of the secrets on chemical peels and find out how you can...

In this special crossover episode of Beauty Bytes, I sit down with the fabulous actress and host of the Emotional Support podcast, Alessandra Torresani. We recorded this right in my office, spilling the tea on what celebrities are actually doing to look flawless (spoiler: it's not just olive oil!). We pull back the curtain on the top aesthetic trends for 2026, including why the upper eyelid blepharoplasty combined with an endoscopic brow lift hidden in the hairline is Hollywood's best-kept secret for looking 10 years younger.  We also tackle the reality of the "Ozempic Face." As more people use GLP-1s for w...

On this week's Five Minute Friday, we are talking about transitioning your skincare routine to attune for the incoming spring season. During the winter months, our skin is typically very dry due to the cold weather. The harsh winds and lower temperatures irritate and dehydrate our face, requiring us to use more heavy moisturizers to retain moisture. However, as we switch to the nicer springtime months, we can begin incorporating new skincare techniques such as glycolic washes or dermaplaning to wipe away our dull, winter skin. Newer seasons, call for new skincare practices. Listen on to hear my tips and...

In this fascinating episode of Beauty Bytes, I am joined by Dr. Kay Linker, a brilliant neuroscientist, aging researcher, and the founder of Aionion, the first longevity-focused supplement brand created specifically for women . We dive deep into what actually happens to our brains as we age—hint: it's not just the neurons, but the support cells like astrocytes and microglia that change the most. Dr. Linker breaks down the "longevity gap" for women, explaining how the steep drop-off in estrogen during perimenopause and menopause severely impacts dopamine, serotonin, and mitochondrial biogenesis, meaning women need to start preparing for brain aging in...

Wrinkle prevention, gentle exfoliation, and cellular renewal- If Retin-A is not a part of your current skincare routine, then it’s time to get yourself familiar with it. This transformative ingredient is everything you need and more to fight visible aging and enhance the overall appearance of your skin. Tune into this podcast to find out why you should include Retin-A into your beauty regimen, and learn how this anti-aging component can help you maintain beautiful, bouncy skin. 

In this episode of Beauty Bytes, I sit down with Courtney Van Bussum, the Chief Operating Officer of Longevity Launch Labs, an innovation incubator dedicated to translating cutting-edge cellular science into real-world medical solutions. We go way beyond the basics to explore the mitochondria—the ancient, alien-like "batteries" living inside our cells that power everything from our heartbeat to our collagen production .

Courtney explains why mitochondrial dysfunction is actually the root cause of aging symptoms we hate, like brain fog, skin dullness, and even gray hair (did you know gray hair is just your follicle running out of...

Anatomy, Attractiveness, Individuality, Beauty Standards - Join us in this week's Five Minute Friday where we explore the intricate anatomy of attraction, the differences between men and women's facial features, and what truly enhances our beauty. With Valentine's Day just around the corner, we also delve into what draws us to the opposite sex. Tune in to learn about the psychological, biological, and sociocultural aspects of attraction just in time for the most romantic day of the year!

In this crucial episode of Beauty Bytes, I sit down with Madison Dini, a powerhouse attorney at Michelman & Robinson who operates right at the intersection of science, medicine, and the law. We tackle the "Wild West" of modern aesthetics and the regulatory challenges facing practices today—from exosomes and polynucleotides to the controversial landscape of PDGF (platelet-derived growth factor).

Madison breaks down the critical difference between FDA approval of a product versus the medical board’s regulation of the practice of medicine, helping us understand where the lines are truly drawn . We discuss why taking legal advice from...

This Five Minute Friday episode is all about peptides. A peptide is a compound composed of amino acids, and in skincare it helps reinforce proteins that naturally occur in the skin, rejuvenating and maintaining it. You need to incorporate this amazing ingredient into your skincare routines. Peptides improve your skin’s firmness, elasticity, and dissipates redness. Peptides can also be used to smooth wrinkles and repair barrier function. You can consume peptides both topically and orally. Some foods that are rich in peptides include milk products, eggs, soybeans, fish and meat. 

In this paradigm-shifting episode of Beauty Bytes, I sit down with Dr. Rahul Mehta, the co-founder of Rapalogix Health and former head of R&D at SkinMedica. We dive deep into the future of cellular longevity and why the "do more, laser more, peel more" approach might actually be exhausting your fibroblasts.

Dr. Mehta explains the science behind mTOR, the master regulator of our cell cycle, and how constantly keeping it in "growth mode" prevents our skin from repairing itself. We discuss his breakthrough molecule, RLX-201 (Re-!), which inhibits TORC1 to trigger repair pathways without the side...

Grace, beauty, and strength- these are the elements we look for in a face as we all
become older. While it might be hard for some to fathom the idea of aging, it doesn’t change the fact that it still happens to all of us. That’s why it’s so important to begin to accept this hard truth and learn how to age gracefully instead. In the podcast, I’ll be breaking down different ways you can maintain your beauty at any age. From natural, topical solutions like sunscreen to building volume with filler, here are different courses...

In this cutting-edge episode of Beauty Bytes, I sit down with Cristiana Banila, the Chief Scientific Officer and co-founder of Mitra Bio, to discuss the revolutionary field of skin epigenetics. We explore the difference between genetics (the hardware) and epigenetics (the operating system) and how non-invasive tape stripping technology allows us to measure biological age and cellular damage without a single biopsy. Cristiana reveals fascinating data on how sun-protected skin is biologically 3.8 years younger than exposed skin, and we tackle a controversial finding from her research: why short-term retinoid use might actually accelerate biological aging by increasing inflammatory markers . We...

In preparation for Valentine's Day, we are talking about the top 10 ways females can improve their attractiveness. Female beauty is such an amazing aspect of human life and that's why I have dedicated my life to working in aesthetic medicine. I love helping women feel beautiful on both the inside and out. The idea of female beauty is more than just an artificial aspect of women, but rather an all-encompassing characteristic to describe all the amazing facets of a woman. Facial harmony, universal beauty, and internal confidence are all various components of attractiveness that I seek to improve in all...

In this high-energy episode of Beauty Bytes, I sit down with Dr. Latt Mansor, a world expert in physiology and metabolism with a PhD from the University of Oxford. We dive deep into the science of ketones—the body's natural "super fuel"—and why you don't need to be on a strict keto diet to reap the benefits.

I actually take a shot of Ketone-IQ during the episode, and you can hear me get into the "zone" in real-time! . Dr. Mansor explains how exogenous ketones can banish brain fog without the caffeine jitters, suppress appetite by regulating ghre...

Healthy diet, vitamin supplements, and essential nutrients- do you know what they say: you are what you eat this concept applies, especially when you are looking to improve the appearance of your skin and prevent physical signs of premature aging! According to Dave Asprey, the founder of Upgrade Labs and Father of Biohacking, the secret to maintaining youthful skin isn't just found in your topical creams but also in the food you eat in this podcast, I go over what types of anti-aging ingredients you should be looking for in your food, and where you can find them! 

In this episode of Beauty Bytes, I am exploring the frontier of needle-free regenerative medicine with Dr. Sanjay Batra, a globally recognized scientist and the creator of Juvasonic. We discuss how his device uses a unique combination of sonic vibration and dermabrasion to open the stratum corneum for 10-15 minutes, allowing large molecules like exosomes, polynucleotides, and PRP to penetrate deep into the dermis without a single needle prick.

Dr. Batra shares why microneedling might not be the best delivery method for serums (hint: the bleeding actually pushes products out!) and reveals incredible data on using this...

In this Five Minute Friday, I am revealing the one supplement most women avoid because they think it causes bloating or bulk—but a new study proves it might actually be the missing link for your brain health . If you are struggling with "menopause brain," afternoon fatigue, or sudden anxiety, the solution might not be a prescription or an expensive wellness trend, but something incredibly simple that has been hiding in the bodybuilding aisle all along .

Tune in to find out why this specific compound is a game-changer for the frontal cortex (the decision-making part of your brain) an...

In this visionary episode of Beauty Bytes, I am saying goodbye to the "filler fatigue" of 2025 and unveiling my Top 10 Aesthetic Predictions for 2026. This isn't just about trends; I’m mapping out a paradigm shift toward hyper-personalization and regenerative medicine that will change how we treat aging forever. I explain why the era of overfilling is dead and how I am pivoting to "undetectable" results using micro-tox, strategic lifting, and collagen biostimulators. I also explore the cutting-edge future of AI diagnostics, where digital avatars will allow me to simulate your aging trajectory and show you treatment outcomes years in advance . We...

Resolutions, better habits, and goals- In this Five Min Friday, we'll be going over my new year resolutions for 2024! With just a little over a week left until we dive into a brand new year, people are beginning to create lists with goals they want to achieve. As we prepare for the classic New Year, New Me posts to flood social media, let's take a look at what meaningful changes I have planned for myself! 

Join me for an uplifting conversation with Petra Kolber, author of The Perfection Detox, a DJ, and a positive psychology performance coach. We tackle the concept of the "Ambitious Procrastinator"—having big dreams but being paralyzed by self-doubt—and why perfectionism actually distances us from others rather than connecting us. Petra shares her powerful "STOP" method for halting anxiety in its tracks and reframes Imposter Syndrome not as a weakness, but as a clear signal that you are stepping into your greatness and out of your comfort zone. As a two-time cancer survivor, she offers a profound perspective on aging, urgi...

On this week's Five Minute Friday, I give you some of my best tips for dry winter skin. Even in Southern California, it isn't uncommon to experience dry skin in the colder months. Cold weather often causes symptoms like itchiness, redness, bumps, and rough patches. I love incorporating moisturizing creams and serums along with scrubs and gentle cleansers to combat these symptoms. In this episode, I go over some of the ways that a good skin care regimen can lessen irritation and increase moisture retention. If you're someone that suffers from dry, irritated skin, this episode is for you! Whether...

Join me for an empowering conversation with Dr. Amy Killen, a board-certified emergency physician turned longevity expert, as we explore how women can thrive in their "Queen Phase"—the years following the loss of the protective "estrogen shield" . We dive deep into the nuances of Hormone Replacement Therapy, celebrating the recent FDA updates on estrogen and dispelling myths about testosterone for women . Dr. Killen breaks down the science of stem cells, explaining the difference between autologous (bone marrow/fat) and allogeneic sources, and shares vital red flags to watch for in regenerative clinics . We also discuss the critical link between mi...

This holiday season, Dr. Kay tackles the reality of cortisol face and how stress takes a toll on our skin and beauty. Discover how cortisol affects collagen, triggers acne, causes puffiness, and impacts overall skin health—and learn how to combat it. Dr. Kay shares her tips for managing holiday stress, including skincare routines and lifestyle hacks to keep you glowing. Tune in to unwrap the festive chaos and turn holiday stress into an opportunity for self-love! 

Join me for a fascinating deep dive into the science of immune aging with Dr. Natalia Mitin, founder and CEO of Sapere Bio. We explore why the aging of the immune system is the primary driver of aging for the entire body and unpack the concept of cellular senescence—often called "zombie cells"—where stressed cells persist and create chronic inflammation. Dr. Mitin explains why consumer tests that assign a specific "biological age" in years are often scientifically lacking compared to measuring where you stand within a population's trajectory. We also discuss cutting-edge longevity targets, including T-cell exhaustion (and how drug...

Period, Pregnancy, and Menopause - Ever faced the dreaded "period breakout" or wondered why your skin behaves differently during pregnancy or menopause? Our latest podcast dives deep into how hormones pull the strings of your skin's destiny. From the monthly rollercoaster to the miraculous journey of pregnancy and the graceful transition of menopause, we decode the influence of hormones on your skin. Join us as we uncover the signs, effects, and skincare tips to keep your skin glowing, no matter the hormonal twist and turn

In this episode of Beauty Bytes, Dr. Kay sits down with transformative business coach and launch strategist Epic Aprille Franks to decode the future of content marketing. With a background in managing eight-figure portfolios and helping thousands of entrepreneurs build profitable brands, Aprille explains why the digital landscape has shifted from "social media" to "interest-based media," requiring a fresh approach to how we connect with audiences . Together, they dismantle the overwhelm of daily posting by introducing the "Batch 14-27" protocol and exploring the power of "Cred Clips"—short B-roll videos that build authority without requiring you to speak on camera .

Red Light Therapy, PRP, Balanced Diet, Stem Cell Injections - Join us in this week's Five Minute Friday where we discuss the hair growth cycle and different methods we can use to avoid hair loss! Some of these methods include taking supplements such as biotin and collagen peptides, along with maintaining a balanced diet that is high in iron and protein. Hairstyles, heat application, and excessive bleaching are factors that can effect hair growth as well. Tune in to learn more! 

Join me for an inspiring conversation with Dr. Felix Bertram, a Swiss dermatologist and entrepreneur who turned a near-fatal motorcycle accident at age 19 into a driving force for resilience and success . We dive deep into the business of aesthetics, where Felix explains why he built the Skinmed brand rather than a personal clinic to allow for true scaling and why practices must avoid the "squeezed middle"—either staying small and profitable or scaling large enough for C-level infrastructure . We also explore the shifting trends in Europe, specifically "filler fatigue" and the pivot toward biostimulation, and discuss the gender divide in lo...

Flashback to this popular topic from the last Thanksgiving! On this week’s episode of Beauty Bytes with Dr. Kay: Secrets of a Plastic Surgeon, I am talking all about the Turkey Neck! Thanks to Botox and fillers, our faces can now look younger than ever, but the neck is a different story. The neck is such an under-appreciated part of the body, and you need to look after it as much as you look after your face. Keep listening as I explain why the neck is so important, along with treatments you can receive to prevent it from sagging. 

In this power-packed episode, I sit down with longevity expert Dr. Elizabeth Yurth to dismantle popular biohacking trends and get down to the cellular root of aging. We dive deep into why mitochondrial dysfunction is often the culprit behind chronic fatigue—especially post-viral exposure—and Dr. Yurth walks me through her safety-first "replacement strategy" for cycling peptides like Thymosin Alpha-1, BPC-157, and GHK-Cu to restore what we naturally lose with age . We also have a critical conversation about the NAD+ craze, where I learn why filling the "bucket" with infusions might be fueling inflammation if we don't block the leaks firs...

Happy Friday, Beauty Byters! 

In this week’s Five Minute Friday, I am joined by my patient Samantha who is the co-founder of Links Financial! We talk about starting small with filler because you want people to take you seriously, to pick lips that fit your branding- but to not get tied to a stereotype. Samantha believes that looking more powerful and attractive can make her feel even more confident in the boardroom, and at the end of the day who doesn't appreciate a pretty business woman. However, I believe is a fine line between sexy and porn sta...

Join Dr. Kay for a deep dive into cosmetic science with Patricia "Trish" Boland, SVP of R&D at Colorescience. This episode explores the critical importance of the skin barrier, its surprising connection to systemic health (including the gut and brain), and the latest innovations in mineral sunscreens that protect against UV, HEV (blue light), and IR. The main focus is a revolutionary new concept: stimulating the skin's own Vitamin D production. Trish explains how a unique chronopeptide can activate the skin's Vitamin D receptors (VDR) and synthesize Vitamin D in keratinocytes and fibroblasts, all without UV exposure, a groundbreaking...

Join Dr. Kay and renowned female longevity expert Kayla Barnes for a comprehensive discussion on optimal health, moving far beyond "normal" lab ranges to an optimal state. Kayla breaks down essential longevity strategies, from tailoring sleep and exercise protocols to the female cycle and structuring supplements into three categories (baseline, protocol-based, and longevity molecules), to pursuing advanced testing like NMR panels. The episode explores cutting-edge therapies like Hyperbaric Oxygen (HBOT) for enhanced healing and blood flow, and Therapeutic Plasma Exchange (TPE) for reducing the total toxic burden. Finally, Dr. Kay and Kayla align on an approach to aesthetic longevity that...

In this Five Minute Friday, we dive into the incredible health benefits of sea moss, a nutrient-dense superfood making waves in the wellness world. From boosting immunity to enhancing skin health and digestion, sea moss offers a natural remedy for a variety of concerns. Tune in to discover how incorporating sea moss into your daily routine can elevate your overall well-being. 

Join Dr. Kay and renowned female longevity expert Kayla Barnes for a comprehensive discussion on optimal health, moving far beyond "normal" lab ranges to an optimal state. Kayla breaks down essential longevity strategies, from tailoring sleep and exercise protocols to the female cycle and structuring supplements into three categories (baseline, protocol-based, and longevity molecules), to pursuing advanced testing like NMR panels and Homa IR to decode health data. The episode explores cutting-edge therapies like Hyperbaric Oxygen (HBOT) for enhanced healing and blood flow, and Therapeutic Plasma Exchange (TPE) for reducing the total toxic burden. Finally, Dr. Kay and Kayla align...

Is your skin missing that extra boost, that oomf? On today's episode of Five Minute Friday, we're getting into Peptides- the science, the benefits, and the POWER they contain.

Today I'm sharing my conversation with the amazing Alisha Merlo on her podcast, Know Your Skin, and an energizing conversation on practical longevity tools, how and when to use peptides, and which supplements support your journey to healthier skin, better energy, and long-term wellness; we covered simple daily habits, safety and monitoring, and how to personalize a smart, evidence-based plan—listen now and share a friend who’s on this path of wellness with you!

Fibroblasts are the quiet engines that rebuild your collagen, keep skin firm and springy, and help you hold a healthy, lasting glow. That glow lives in your fibroblasts, so let's learn how to feed them well with daily SPF, vitamin C, peptides, and night repair, then boost their output with targeted treatments that stimulate fresh collagen for firmer, smoother, more resilient skin. And book a consult to build your personalized plan!

Your hormones tell a powerful story about your body, your mood, your energy, and your pleasure. In this episode of Beauty Bytes, I sit down with Dr. Mary Simpson, a board-certified OB/GYN and menopause expert who has dedicated her career to helping women understand and embrace their sexual health.
Dr. Simpson is the founder and medical director of SeaMist MedSpa @inseamistmedspa_  in Rhode Island, where she blends hormone health, wellness, and aesthetics. We talk openly about changes that come with aging as a woman, perimenopause, and why owning your sexual wellness is an act of self-care.
This c...