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E207
October 02, 2026
Menopause Skin Treatments: Botox, Lasers and Lifestyle
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In this episode of unPAUSED, Dr. Mary Claire Haver continues her conversation with Dr. Erica Kelly, a board-certified dermatologist at the University of Texas Medical Branch, moving from the science of hormones and skin into practical treatments and daily habits. Dr. Kelly discusses chemical and mineral sunscreens, questions about ingredient absorption and endocrine disruption, and her approach to sun protection, including areas people often forget, such as the scalp, ears and lips.

Dr. Kelly then lays out a simple morning and evening skincare routine, explains product order and shares the products she is currently using. The conversation covers emerging research on topical exosomes, vitamin C and omega-3s, as well as the mixed evidence on oral collagen supplements and the limitations of the available studies.

The discussion moves into professional treatments, including Botox, fillers and laser treatments. Dr. Kelly explains how she adjusts treatment for aging skin, the importance of a provider’s training and experience, and the risks of poorly performed injections. She and Dr. Haver also discuss skin changes on the body and in the vulvar and vaginal area, including the difference between vaginal moisturizers and lubricants.

The episode also explores nutrition, glycation, sleep and the skin’s circadian rhythm, followed by red light therapy and options for menopause-related hair thinning. Dr. Kelly discusses oral and topical medications, early shedding and the need for ongoing treatment. She closes with her top skin-protection priorities and a walk through accessible skincare products and approaches she discusses with patients.

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Chapters

00:00:00 – Mineral vs chemical sunscreen
00:02:16 – Are sunscreens endocrine disrupting?
00:04:56 – Do you need sunscreen every day?
00:06:28 – The ideal morning and evening skincare routine
00:07:19 – What a dermatologist actually uses on her skin
00:10:17 – Supplements and the evidence for collagen
00:12:43 – When professional skin treatments make sense
00:13:22 – The four approaches to cosmetic treatment
00:15:02 – How menopause changes lasers and Botox
00:17:01 – How to choose a safe cosmetic provider
00:19:18 – When to start Botox
00:22:22 – Menopause changes across the whole body
00:24:49 – Diet, sleep and skin aging
00:27:02 – Does red light therapy work?
00:28:25 – What actually helps menopausal hair loss
00:32:16 – The number one thing to do for your skin
00:32:46 – Drugstore skincare Dr. Kelly recommends

About the guest

Dr. Erica Kelly

Dr. Erica Kelly is a board-certified dermatologist and Professor of Dermatology at the University of Texas Medical Branch, where she also founded and directs the Cosmetic Dermatology division. She cares for both adult and pediatric patients, with expertise that spans medical dermatology and advanced cosmetic treatments.

She’s been recognized as a Texas Super Doctor for over a decade and was inducted into the Texas Super Doctors Hall of Fame, an honor reserved for physicians who have demonstrated sustained excellence in their field. Dr. Kelly is also a sought-after speaker at state and national conferences and serves on the board of the Texas Dermatological Society.

Beyond her clinical work, she’s deeply passionate about education and has trained countless residents and medical students, including in cutting-edge cosmetic procedures like injectables and energy-based devices. She’s known for her genuine connection with patients, her curiosity, and a true love of medicine.