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

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  866: The Future of Hair: Stem Cells, Hair Cloning, and Regenerative Restoration with Dr. Richard Chaffoo 15.09.2026 43min

  Hair loss is more than cosmetic—it can dramatically affect confidence, identity, and how we perceive aging. In this episode of Beauty Bytes with Dr. Kay: Secrets of a Plastic Surgeon, I am joined by Dr. Richard Chaffoo, a nationally recognized triple board-certified plastic surgeon with more than 30 years of clinical experience and a special focus on hair restoration and regenerative medicine.We break down what is actually happening inside the hair follicle as hair begins to thin and why early intervention matters before chronic inflammation, miniaturization, and fibrosis permanently compromise the follicle. Dr. Chaffoo walks us through today’s treatment spectrum, from oral minoxidil and finasteride to dutasteride, PRP, microneedling, red-light therapy, and his approach to combined regenerative therapy. We also discuss why hair restoration should go beyond simply prescribing a pill or performing a transplant—and why evaluating scalp health, nutritional deficiencies, hormones, and the biological environment surrounding the follicle is so important.Then we dive into the future of hair science. Dr. Chaffoo shares his experience working with researchers at Stemson Therapeutics to create human hair follicles from pluripotent stem cells and successfully grow human hair in preclinical models. We discuss the possibility of hair cloning, follicle banking, regenerating the entire multicellular hair-follicle niche, and a future where patients may be able to preserve their own follicles or generate new ones rather than relying solely on a limited donor supply.Could hair transplantation eventually become obsolete? From stem-cell-derived follicles to regenerative treatments designed to rescue thinning hair before it is permanently lost, this conversation explores how rapidly the science of hair restoration is evolving—and what may be possible in the decade ahead.Guest Information:Dr. Richard Chaffoo is a triple board-certified plastic surgeon and hair restoration specialist based in Southern California. He co-leads La Jolla Plastic Surgery & Dermatology and has been actively involved in research exploring regenerative approaches to hair restoration and human hair follicle development. Learn more about his hair restoration practice at https://californiahairmd.com/ and follow him on Instagram at @drchaffoo.
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  865: Summer Skin Recovery: Repairing Your Barrier for Fall 11.09.2026 11min

  Summer heat takes a toll on your skin. In this week’s podcast, we’re talking dryness, irritation, and the breakdown of your lipid barrier. This natural barrier is your shield against environmental stressors, and when it’s disrupted, inflammation follows. As the season shifts, it’s the perfect time to repair and restore. We’ll cover why ceramide-rich moisturizers matter, how hydrating soaks help replenish, and why it’s smart to ease up on exfoliation. Plus, we share tips on diet, recovery treatments, and why end-of-summer peels set you up for glowing, resilient skin heading into fall.
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  864: The Mitochondrial Masterclass: Hyperbaric Oxygen, Methylene Blue, and GABA with Dr. Scott Sherr 09.09.2026 51min

  Are you feeling constantly "wired and tired" or struggling to recover from chronic stress and inflammation? In this episode of Beauty Bytes, I am joined by Dr. Scott Sherr, a board-certified internal medicine physician and a leading specialist in hyperbaric medical oxygen therapy (HBOT). Dr. Sherr is the Chief Medical Officer of Transcriptions and a pioneer in Health Optimization Medicine, a foundational framework that utilizes metabolomics to assess and heal your cellular machinery rather than simply band-aiding disease.  We dive deep into the science of hyperbaric therapy, breaking down why varying atmospheric pressures are required depending on whether you are targeting the central nervous system or systemic wounds. Dr. Sherr explains that flooding the body with oxygen creates reactive oxygen species, meaning your mitochondria must be fully optimized with the right antioxidants to actually leverage the benefits of HBOT. We also challenge everything you thought you knew about depression and anxiety, exploring why a deficiency in GABA—your brain's primary inhibitory neurotransmitter—is far more likely to cause your 120,000 racing thoughts a day than a lack of serotonin.  Finally, we discuss the incredible benefits of low-dose methylene blue for instantly boosting mitochondrial capacity, and why this compound is particularly transformative for women navigating the steep estrogen and progesterone drops of perimenopause. Guest Information:Dr. Scott Sherr is the Chief Medical Officer of Transcriptions and One Base Health. You can find his health optimization products at Transcriptions, learn more about his practitioner training at homehope.org, or follow his insights on Instagram at @drscottsherr.  
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  863: Turning Back Time: The Secrets Behind Anti-Aging Skincare 04.09.2026 16min

  Wrinkles, Aging, and Youthfulness - In the quest for youthful, radiant skin, a range of cutting-edge treatments and therapies has emerged to combat the signs of aging. From lymphatic massage, which aids in detoxification and reducing inflammation, to LED therapy that stimulates collagen production and reduces fine lines, and finally, PRP treatments with microneedling to enhance skin texture and elasticity — these innovative approaches offer promising solutions for those seeking to turn back the clock on aging skin. Join us as we delve into the science behind these treatments and discover how they can help you achieve a more youthful and vibrant appearance.
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  862: Reversing Cellular Senescence: GPX4, Ferroptosis, and Adaptive Senotherapeutics with Dr. Frederick Beddingfield 02.09.2026 33min

  Are you fascinated by the molecular science of aging and senescence? In this episode of Beauty Bytes, I am joined by Dr. Frederick Beddingfield III, the CEO of Rubedo Life Sciences, a physician-scientist, and a former senior leader at Allergan. We focus on the cutting edge of longevity and how Rubedo is developing adaptive senotherapeutics to reverse cellular aging and extend healthspan.  Dr. Beddingfield explains the science behind their lead drug, RLS 1496, which targets the enzyme glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) to regulate ferroptosis, an iron-dependent cell death pathway. We discuss how this drug not only eliminates toxic senescent cells but also acts as a "redox reset" for aged cells, reducing their biological age by improving mitochondrial function and autophagy. We also explore their groundbreaking human clinical trials, which demonstrated a 50% reduction in precancerous actinic keratoses in just four weeks without causing skin irritation. Plus, Dr. Beddingfield shares his personal biohacking stack, including low-dose rapamycin, fisetin, and quercetin.  Guest Information:Dr. Frederick Beddingfield III is the CEO of Rubedo Life Sciences. You can learn more about their clinical trials at rubedolifesciences.com or follow him on Instagram and LinkedIn at @FrederickBeddingfield.  
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  861: Melatonin 101: Anxiety, Sun Exposure, and Sleep Disorders 29.08.2026 11min

  Earplugs, blindfolds, or milk before bed time-if these can’t help you get a good night’s rest, you might turn to for help. But is this really the best way to solve your sleeping issues? That said, you might want to understand the mechanism behind melatonin before jumping into any impulsive decisions. Tune into this week’s Five Minutes Friday to discover the secrets behind melatonin on the market!
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  860: Dr. Koji Tanabe on Reprogramming Aging: iPSCs, Longevity, and Cellular Rejuvenation 25.08.2026 43min

  In this episode of Beauty Bytes with Dr. Kay: Secrets of a Plastic Surgeon, I am joined by Dr. Koji Tanabe, a leading stem cell scientist, founder and CEO of iPeace, and one of the researchers behind the landmark development of human induced pluripotent stem cells, or iPSCs. Dr. Tanabe breaks down the science of Yamanaka factors and explains how mature cells can be reprogrammed into a younger, pluripotent state with the ability to develop into many different cell types. We explore how iPSC technology differs from traditional stem cells, PRP, exosomes, and other regenerative treatments, as well as why creating and quality-checking these cells outside the body may offer important advantages over attempting cellular reprogramming directly inside the body. Dr. Tanabe also shares how iPSC-derived cells are being explored in regenerative applications involving heart failure, Parkinson’s disease, spinal cord injury, and other areas of medicine. We dive into the future of personalized cell banking, why he believes it may be beneficial to preserve cells while you are healthy, and how iPSC-derived factors, or iPSF, are being explored for skin rejuvenation, hair restoration, and systemic longevity treatments. The iPSF treatments discussed in this episode are currently available only in Japan and are not available in the United States at this time due to differences in regulatory standards. From cellular aging and DNA mutations to epigenetic clocks, regenerative medicine, and the difference between lifespan and healthspan, this conversation offers a fascinating look at how cellular reprogramming could change the way we approach aging, disease, and the future of personalized medicine.Clarification: During the discussion of iPSC-derived therapies for heart failure, the conversation referenced the possibility of creating patient-specific, autologous iPSC-derived cells. The currently approved application discussed in this episode is allogeneic, not autologous. Dr. Tanabe was referring to the potential for iPSC technology to be developed for personalized autologous applications.Guest Information: Dr. Koji Tanabe is a stem cell scientist and the founder and CEO of iPeace. He spent eight years conducting research at Kyoto University in Nobel laureate Dr. Shinya Yamanaka’s laboratory and was the second author on the landmark 2007 paper describing the generation of human induced pluripotent stem cells. His work focuses on cellular reprogramming, regenerative medicine, personalized iPSC manufacturing, and the potential use of iPSC technology in longevity and future cell-based therapies. Check them out at: https://ipeace.com/en/ or @mypeace_ips.
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  859: Khloé Kardashian, Cosmetic Work & The Beauty Standard 21.08.2026 10min

  In this Five-Minute Friday episode, Dr. Kay discusses Khloé Kardashian's recent admission about her cosmetic procedures, including a nose job and past facial fillers. This candid revelation offers a much-needed breath of fresh air in an industry often fueled by denial and curated perfection.Explore how the Kardashian aesthetic has influenced beauty standards for over a decade, and the consequences of denying cosmetic enhancements. Dr. Kay emphasizes that this transparency is crucial for fostering healthier conversations around beauty, allowing individuals to differentiate between naturally achievable looks and medically enhanced ones. Learn why honesty from public figures can empower young people, reduce societal pressure, and pave the way for a more authentic and liberating approach to beauty.
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  858: Why ADHD Feels Different for Women: Hormones & the Brain with Dr. Jolene Brighten 18.08.2026 49min

  Are you wondering why ADHD can feel so different for women, especially during perimenopause and other major hormonal transitions? In this episode of Beauty Bytes with Dr. Kay: Secrets of a Plastic Surgeon, I am joined by Dr. Jolene Brighten, a women’s health expert, author, and hormone specialist, to break down the complex relationship between ADHD, estrogen, dopamine, brain energy, and inflammation. Dr. Brighten explains why ADHD is not simply an inability to focus, but a disorder of attention regulation and executive function, and why symptoms can become more noticeable as hormones begin to fluctuate. We dive into the role of estrogen in dopamine, serotonin, acetylcholine, and norepinephrine signaling, as well as the emerging connection between ADHD and mitochondrial dysfunction. Dr. Brighten also discusses why perimenopause can intensify brain fog, forgetfulness, emotional reactivity, sleep disruption, and difficulty concentrating, and how neuroinflammation and declining brain energy may contribute. We also explore practical strategies for supporting the ADHD brain, including exercise, protein intake, blood sugar regulation, sleep optimization, magnesium, creatine, saffron, and other nutrients that may support cognitive function. From GLP-1 medications and thyroid health to stress, sleep, and lifestyle habits, this conversation looks at ADHD through a whole-body lens and gives women a clearer understanding of why their brain may feel different at different stages of life.Guest Information: Dr. Jolene Brighten is a women’s health expert, author, and host of The Dr. Brighten Show. Her upcoming book, ADHD in Women, explores how female hormones influence ADHD symptoms across the lifespan. You can find her online at @DrJoleneBrighten and learn more about her work at drbrighten.com.
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  857: Summer Shedding vs. True Hair Loss (And How to Fix It) 14.08.2026 11min

  Are you noticing more hair in your shower drain or hairbrush this summer and wondering if it is time to panic? In honor of National Hair Loss Awareness Month, this Five Minute Friday episode of Beauty Bytes breaks down everything you need to know about your hair's natural shedding cycle.  I explain exactly how to tell the difference between normal seasonal shedding, damage-induced hair breakage from chlorine and tight ponytails, and true progressive hair loss. We discuss why getting a comprehensive blood panel is the absolute first step you must take, including the specific hormone and ferritin levels your body requires to actually grow hair. Finally, I share my top regenerative and medical treatments for rescuing your follicles—from PRP microneedling and KeraFactor serums to oral minoxidil and dual-wavelength red light therapy.  
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  856: Integrative Aesthetics: The Vagus Nerve, Glycated Collagen, and the Gut-Skin Axis with Dr. Mark Tager 11.08.2026 50min

  Are you looking to optimize your skin health from the inside out? In this episode of Beauty Bytes, I am joined by Dr. Mark Tager, a physician, integrative aesthetics educator, and co-founder of the Vagal Nerve Society. Dr. Tager has authored 12 books, including Feed Your Skin Right and Integrative Aesthetics, and brings decades of expertise in personalized nutrition and regenerative medicine. We explore the true meaning of integrative aesthetics, noting that 5 to 10% of your blood flow goes to your skin, making internal nutrition the ultimate foundation for beauty.  We dive deep into the gut-skin connection, exploring how the standard American diet glycates your collagen and why maintaining a healthy microbiome with dietary fiber is essential for producing neurotransmitters. Dr. Tager also breaks down the incredible science of the vagus nerve, explaining its role in the body's inflammatory reflex and how tools like 4-7-8 breathing and the Truvaga transcervical device can calm a "wired and tired" nervous system. Finally, we discuss the "wild west" of peptides, the importance of genetic testing for personalized supplementation, and the psychological hardiness required for a long, passionate life.  Guest Information:Dr. Mark Tager is the CEO of ChangeWell and an expert in integrative aesthetics. You can find his books on Amazon or connect with him on LinkedIn and Instagram at @DRMTager. 
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  855: How to Restore Your Skin Barrier After Summer Sun Damage 08.08.2026 11min

  Lipid Barrier Repair, Dryness, Inflammation - Join us in this week's podcast episode as we discuss the impact of summer heat on the skin, particularly focusing on issues such as dryness, irritation, and barrier disruption. We explain the importance of maintaining the skin's hydro lipid barrier, which acts as a protective layer against environmental aggressors. With summer coming to a close, we offer practical advice on how to care for the skin after these hot months, including the benefits of moisturizing soaks, the use of ceramide-rich products, and the importance of avoiding over-exfoliation. From the role of diet to end-of-summer chemical peels, we provide a comprehensive guide to maintaining a healthy skin barrier to rejuvenate and repair sun-damaged skin as we step into fall!
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  854: The Secret to Skin Resilience: Wound Healing, Sunburns, and Beta Glucan 04.08.2026 36min

  Are you ready to discover the next massive breakthrough in skincare and immunology? In this episode of Beauty Bytes, I am joined by Dr. Jocelyn Strand, a naturopathic physician and the Vice President of Clinical Education and Research at BWH Labs. Dr. Strand breaks down the incredible, largely untapped science behind beta glucan, a complex polysaccharide molecule that acts as a powerful biological signal for your innate immune system.  We dive deep into why the skin should be viewed as an immune organ and how specific 1,3/1,6 beta glucan molecules—isolated from yeast cell walls—perfectly bind to pattern recognition receptors on our immune cells. Dr. Strand explains the fascinating concept of "trained immunity," where beta glucan creates functional epigenetic changes that awaken and coordinate our first responder cells, creating a broader, more efficient readiness against environmental stressors. We also discuss how applying beta glucan topically can accelerate wound healing after cosmetic procedures, instantly soothe severe sunburns, improve overall barrier hydration, and clear out damaged tissue caused by inflammaging.  Guest Information:Dr. Jocelyn Strand is a naturopathic physician and the VP of Clinical Education and Research at BWH Labs. You can explore her research and clinical education at bwhlabs.com or find consumer beta glucan products at BetterWayHealth.com. 
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  853: How to Protect Yourself from Photodamage this Summer 31.07.2026 18min

  Harmful UV rays, oxidative-stress, and solar-damaged skin- these are all the things you want to try to avoid this summer. With the season getting hotter and the rays getting harsher, you may also want to consider tweaking your beauty regimen. Not only will it help protect your skin from accelerated aging, but it’ll also decrease your risk of cancer. Listen to this episode to find out what photodamage consists of, how to avoid it, and how to treat it if you've already been exposed.
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  852: Facial Mapping, Vagus Nerve Hacks, and Traditional Chinese Medicine with Dr. Felice Chen 28.07.2026 27min

  Are you spending a fortune on complex skincare routines but still struggling with acne, inflammation, or dull skin? In this episode of Beauty Bytes, I am joined by Dr. Felice Chen, a doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), neuroscientist, and the co-founder of the holistic skincare brand Moonbow. Dr. Chen bridges the gap between Eastern and Western philosophies, explaining why you can only truly heal your skin when your nervous system feels calm and safe. We discuss the ancient practice of facial mapping, revealing how breakouts on specific areas of your face—like your chin or between your eyes—directly correspond to internal inflammation in organs like the uterus or liver.  Dr. Chen also shares actionable holistic advice to help modern audiences calm their chronic fight-or-flight responses. We dive into why you should stop drinking ice water, the specific herbal teas that detox the liver and balance the blood, and how you can manually stimulate your vagus nerve at home without acupuncture needles. If you want to stop fighting your body and start healing it from the root cause, this conversation will completely change your approach to wellness and beauty.  Guest Information: Dr. Felice Chen is a Traditional Chinese Medicine doctor and the co-founder of Moonbow. You can explore her holistic skincare line at moonbowskin.com or visit her integrative clinic, Felice Acupuncture, located in Culver City. 
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  851: Low Maintenance Luxury: Simplify Your Summer Beauty Routine 24.07.2026 12min

  Dewy Blush, Sunscreen, Natural Hair - Join us in this week's Five Minute Friday as Dr. Kay explores the summer trend of "low maintenance luxury" for a relaxed and effortless beauty routine! Dr. Kay emphasizes the appeal of natural, minimalistic makeup looks and shares her personal preference for a skin-breathing, low-maintenance approach. From tinted lip balms with skincare benefits to mineral sunscreens that can double as concealer, we discuss the importance of multitasking products that streamline your regimen. She also touches on the growing popularity of air-drying hair to embrace natural textures, and the significance of a comprehensive body care routine, including exfoliation and hydration. Tune in to learn how to simplify your beauty routine while achieving a polished, radiant look for the summer!
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  850: Fertility 2.0: Insulin Resistance, Microbiome Hacks, and PMOS with Rachel Swanson 21.07.2026 52min

  Are you struggling with infertility or looking to optimize your longevity by slowing down your reproductive aging? In this episode of Beauty Bytes, I am joined by Rachel Swanson, a registered dietitian, clinical nutrition expert, and the author of Trying. Rachel introduces us to "Fertility 2.0," a proactive, science-backed approach that treats reproductive issues as a canary in the coal mine for our overall systemic health and future disease risk. We discuss why Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is now being recognized as Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovary Syndrome (PMOS), with up to 95% of these patients suffering from insulin resistance. Rachel breaks down the exact metabolic biomarkers you need to track—including fasting insulin, HbA1c, and waist circumference—and explains why the "normal" lab range is not always optimal. We also explore the fascinating connection between fertility and three different microbiomes (oral, vaginal, and gut), how to use Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) to flatten your spikes, and the everyday endocrine disruptors you need to throw away right now.Guest Information: Rachel Swanson is a clinical nutrition expert and the author of Trying. You can find her on Instagram at @RachelsRX or visit her website at rachelswanson.com.
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  849: Stop Giving "Costco Samples" of Your Value: Beauty Hacks and Biohacking Secrets 17.07.2026 20min

  Are you ready for the ultimate list of beauty, health, and relationship secrets we completely refuse to keep to ourselves? In this Five Minute Friday episode of Beauty Bytes, I am joined by the fabulous Margo Graff to share 10 game-changing tips that every girl needs to know.  We dive into everything from clearing up cystic acne by ditching toxic laundry detergents and dryer sheets, to using glycolic acid wipes on your armpits to kill odor-causing bacteria. We also break down the importance of "protein maxing" with 1 to 1.5 grams of protein per pound of body weight, and why ditching messy topical serums for oral minoxidil is the ultimate hair growth hack. On the cosmetic side, we debate the rising trend of the "38-year-old facelift," why you really only have two good facelifts in your lifetime, and how combining a chin implant with early fat transfer can naturally stretch and lift the face.  Beyond beauty, Margo shares her incredible advice for stepping into your feminine energy: stop giving away "Costco samples" of your value or handing out "participation trophies" to people who put in zero effort. Plus, we cover the anti-aging magic of hard-shell hyperbaric oxygen chambers for rebuilding your DNA's telomeres, and how mastering sales psychology can completely transform your personal and professional life.  Guest Information:Margo Graff is an aesthetic expert and content creator. You can find her on Instagram at @itsmargograff, where she shares resources on boundaries, self-regulation, and stepping into feminine standards.
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  848: Hacking Menopause: Microdosing GLP-1s, Creatine, and the Truth About Estrogen 14.07.2026 41min

  Are you experiencing subtle changes in sleep, mood, or resilience and wondering if it could be perimenopause? In this episode of Beauty Bytes, I am joined by Dr. Jessica Shepherd, a board-certified gynecologist, Chief Medical Officer for Hers, and the author of the new book Generation M. We are completely reframing the conversation around menopause, transforming it from a time of fear into the "magic of midlife".  With women spending up to 40% of their lives in the postmenopausal phase, Dr. Shepherd explains why we must proactively build our health for our 70s, 80s, and 90s rather than waiting for disease to strike. We tackle the widespread confusion surrounding Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), debunking the 20-year-old WHI study and addressing the misplaced public fears linking estrogen to breast cancer. We also discuss her work at Hers, the benefits of microdosing GLP-1s for weight maintenance and longevity, and the absolute necessity of safe peptide sourcing. Finally, Dr. Shepherd shares the exact advanced labs and supplements—including her personal creatine and hormone stack—that every woman should utilize to optimize her aging trajectory.  Guest Information:Dr. Jessica Shepherd is the Chief Medical Officer at Hers and the founder of Sanctum Med Wellness in Dallas. You can find her new book, Generation M, and learn more about her platform at drjessicashepherd.com or on social media at @ModernMeno.  
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  847: Why I’m Adding a Vibration Plate to My Longevity Routine 10.07.2026 7min

  Are you wondering if standing on a shaking platform actually counts as exercise, or if it's just another wellness gimmick? In this Five Minute Friday, I am breaking down the incredible science behind whole-body vibration plates and why I just added a $59 Amazon vibration plate to my daily longevity routine.I dive into the compelling data showing how these rapid mechanical movements force your muscles to continuously contract, significantly improving lower body power, walking endurance, and sit-to-stand performance. We also explore how vibration therapy improves proprioception, increases lumbar spine bone mineral density for postmenopausal women at just 30 hertz, and even helps reduce Hemoglobin A1C in people with type 2 diabetes by pulling glucose out of the blood. Finally, I share my personal tips on how to use it safely—from doing morning squats to applying my skincare regimen right on the plate!