The Ultimate Human with Gary Brecka

239. Dr. Shawana Vali: Healing Skin from the Inside Out, Collagen Degradation & Skin Aging

27 snips
Jan 27, 2026
Dr. Shawana Vali, a double board-certified cosmetic dermatologist focused on regenerative medicine and treating skin from the inside out. She explores internal drivers of skin issues, how stress and hormones accelerate collagen loss, and which tests reveal hidden causes. Conversation covers prescription vs OTC actives, biologics like exosomes, lifestyle levers such as sleep and fasting, and targeted devices and treatments.
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ADVICE

Treat Skin From The Inside Out

  • Diagnose skin by assessing lifestyle, mood, sleep, and gut before treating topically.
  • Phase treatments and fix internal inflammation first rather than rushing cosmetic procedures.
INSIGHT

Stress Drives Collagen Breakdown

  • Chronic stress creates oxidative stress and glycation that break down collagen and speed visible aging.
  • Deep dermal fibroblast loss and slowed epidermal turnover together cause laxity, wrinkles, and dull skin.
ADVICE

Choose Actives That Penetrate, Not Sit

  • Avoid heavy OTC ingredients that sit on the epidermis and worsen inflammation for acneic skin.
  • Use targeted actives like beta-glucan for anti-inflammatory penetration instead of heavy hyaluronic serums.
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