
Episode 10: Acids 101, Thread Lifts (No Thanks), Korean Head Spas, and a Peel Gone Wrong
From Derm Next Door by Ali Dempsey and Reem Nabti
October 13, 2025 · 41 min · Season 1 · Episode 10
About this episode
In this milestone episode, Ali and Reem discuss the use of acids in skincare, the risks of thread lifts, experiences at Korean head spas, and a cautionary tale about a chemical burn case.
We hit double digits! In this milestone episode, Ali and Reem dig into why acids are everywhere right now- how glycolic, salicylic, and TCA actually work in skin and how to fit them into a skincare routine without annihilating your barrier. Then they explain (plainly) why thread lifts keep dermatologists unamused, unpack a Korean head spa visit, and break down the viral Victoria Nelson chemical-burn case as a cautionary tale about credentials and aftercare. They wrap with Asian beauty favorites and a few NYC spots they’re loving. Chapters below for quick skipping. Rate/review if you learn something! Chapters / Timestamps 00:00 — Intro & 10-Episode Mini-Party (why this is a passion project, what’s ahead). 00:45 — HOT: Acids 101 (OTC vs in-office, safe use, skin cycling basics) — AHAs/BHAs overview; glycolic/salicylic/lactic vs TCA depth and downtime; sane cadence (retinoid most nights, acids on off nights). 15:20 — BOTHERED: Thread Lifts — what they are, where they’re happening, complication risk, and why board-certified derms generally pass. 22:40 — SIDE-EYEING: Korean Head Spas — Reem’s first-hand rundown; what actually happens; what might help (and what’s just vibes). 29:45…
People in this episode
Hosts: Ali Dempsey, Reem Nabti
Topics covered
- acids in skincare
- thread lifts
- Korean head spas
- chemical burns
- Asian beauty products
Keywords
- glycolic acid
- salicylic acid
- TCA
- thread lifts
- Korean beauty
- chemical burn
- Asian beauty
Mentioned in this episode
Products: Probioderm 3D Lifting Cream, Aestura Atobarrie
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