The Skintelligent Sundays

Episode 30: Fall Refresh Routine

Guest: Ms. Tiana Smith – Licensed Georgia Esthetician & Owner of The Jordan Blake
 
Episode Overview:
Fall is here, and your skin is ready for a seasonal refresh! In this special 30th episode of Skintelligent Sundays, I’m joined by Tiana Smith, a talented esthetician from Georgia and the founder of The Jordan Blake. Tiana shares her expert tips for keeping your skin hydrated, balanced, and glowing as the weather changes. We cover:
How skin changes with the seasons and what you can do about it
Must-have products and ingredients for fall skincare
Simple, budget-friendly tips to refresh your routine without feeling overwhelmed
 
Whether your skin tends to get dry, sensitive, or acne-prone, this episode has something for everyone!
 
Connect with Tiana Smith
Instagram: @thejordanblake1
Shop: The Jordan Blake Online Store( coming soon) 
Spa Services: Spavia Day Spa – Chamblee
 
Product Recommendations for Sensitive Skin
✨ If your skin leans on the sensitive side, here are some gentle, effective options you can explore:
Vitamin C (sensitive-skin friendly):
La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C Face Serum (12% concentration, gentle and fragrance-free)
https://amzn.to/4fY0um4
CeraVe Skin Renewing Vitamin C Serum
https://amzn.to/4fVigpS
 
Retinol (gentle formulas for sensitive skin):
CeraVe Skin Renewing Retinol Serum
https://amzn.to/3UMdfWX
The Inkey List Retinol Serum (low strength, slow-release for less irritation)
https://amzn.to/4lP8BCB
 
Sunscreen (broad-spectrum, sensitive skin safe):
EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 (derm favorite for acne- and rosacea-prone skin)
https://amzn.to/4fY0B0Y
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
https://amzn.to/47cKvhy
 
Don’t forget:
Subscribe, share with a friend, and keep glowing with us every Sunday!

Episode 29: Teen Skincare for Melanin-Rich Skin: Simple, Real, and Effective

Your teen years are the perfect time to build healthy skin habits that will last a lifetime—especially if you have melanin-rich skin. In this episode of Skintelligent Sundays, I’m breaking down:
Why melanin skin needs its own skincare approach
The 4 essential steps for teen skin health
Common mistakes teens make (and how to avoid them)
How skincare ties into confidence and self-love
 
Whether you’re a teen, a parent, or you work with youth, this episode will give you simple, no-fluff tips to help skin stay clear, balanced, and protected—without breaking the bank.
 
📅 Tune in this Sunday at 7 p.m. Eastern on Podbean, Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.
 
Resources & Links Mentioned in This Episode:
Follow me on Instagram: @Skinmaven2025
Grab my book: Love: A Melanated Skincare Guide for deeper skincare education( check previous episodes)
DM me if you’d like a personalized teen skincare routine

Episode 28: Menopause & Skin Shifts: Thriving in Your Glow

Menopause changes more than your mood — it changes your skin.
 
From dryness and loss of elasticity to unexpected breakouts and pigmentation shifts, this natural life stage can feel like your skin is rewriting its entire story. And for melanin-rich skin? Those changes can be even more noticeable.
 
In this episode of Skintelligent Sundays, I’m breaking down:
✨ What actually happens to your skin during menopause
✨ How hormonal shifts impact melanin-rich skin differently
✨ Hydration, barrier repair, and sunscreen strategies for lasting radiance
✨ Gentle, effective ways to address pigmentation without irritation
✨ Lifestyle habits that keep your glow from the inside out
 
Your beauty doesn’t expire — it evolves. Let’s navigate this season together with confidence and the right tools for your skin’s new needs.
 
Resources & Recommendations Mentioned in This Episode:
Bakuchiol is a plant-derived ingredient often called a “natural alternative to retinol.”
 
Products with Bakuchiol worth considering:
 
Herbivore Botanicals Bakuchiol Retinol Alternative Serum – hydrating + smoothing.
https://amzn.to/3HmbnBb
 
The Inkey List Bakuchiol – affordable, lightweight option.
https://amzn.to/45j5rSL
 
OLEHENRIKSEN Goodnight Glow Retin-ALT Sleeping Crème – bakuchiol + AHAs for overnight renewal.
https://amzn.to/4maYHMw
 
Hydrating Cleanser: CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser or La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser
https://amzn.to/47ogF9L
 
Barrier Support: Products with ceramides, peptides, or fatty acids
https://amzn.to/4ft1XjM
 
SPF for Melanin-Rich Skin: Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30 or EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46
https://amzn.to/4lmMYJw
 
Pigmentation Care: Vitamin C serum, niacinamide, or licorice root extract
https://amzn.to/4oAnFqu
 
 
💌 Let’s Connect:
Follow me on Instagram: @Skinmaven2025
Subscribe to my LinkedIn Newsletter
Check out my book: Love: A Melanated Skincare Guide Amazon Link
https://a.co/d/4FzxqDH
BONUS: Download Menopause Skin Barrier Cheat Sheet Here: 
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1OSLP99__MFI4cq65EmIpWIGpjxAbsAqx/view?usp=sharing
 
🎧 Listen now and share this episode with a friend who needs to hear it!

Episode 27: Retinol for Textured Skin

Textured skin doesn’t have to be your forever story. In this episode of Skintelligent Sundays, we’re diving deep into how retinol can help smooth textured, bumpy, or uneven skin—especially for melanin-rich complexions. I’m breaking down what it is, how to use it without irritating your skin, and what products pair well (or not at all) with it. Whether you’re brand new to retinol or ready to get back into it the right way, this episode is your glow guide.
What You’ll Learn:
✨ What causes textured skin
✨ What retinol is and how it works
✨ How to introduce retinol into your routine without damage
✨ Common mistakes to avoid with melanin-rich skin
✨ My personal favorite supporting ingredients
Timestamps:
0:00 – Welcome & intro
1:10 – What is textured skin?
2:40 – How retinol works on bumpy and uneven skin
4:15 – Why melanated skin needs a gentle approach
5:30 – How to introduce retinol (the smart way)
7:20 – What to avoid while using retinol
8:30 – My tips + reminders for melanated skin
9:50 – Final thoughts & how to stay connected
Products Mentioned:
✅ [Paula’s Choice 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatment]
https://amzn.to/3UH9K3T
✅ [La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum – Gentle for Beginners]
https://amzn.to/4opDobN( My Favorite)
✅ [CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum – Great for PIH & Texture]
https://amzn.to/45ev2e7
✅ [EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 – Non-comedogenic & brown-skin approved]
https://amzn.to/4fjEb9NResources & Links:
📘 Grab your copy of my book: [ Love: A Melanated Skincare Guide]
https://a.co/d/iSLTYQm📲 Connect on Instagram: @Skinmaven2025
💌 Subscribe to the newsletter: LinkedIn 
Don’t forget:
⭐️ Leave a review if today’s episode helped you
🔁 Share with a friend who’s struggling with textured skin
🎤 DM me your skincare questions for a future episode!

Episode 26: Spot Treatments & Serums for Melanin Skin

In this quick but powerful bonus episode, I’m diving into one of the most requested topics—how to properly use serums and spot treatments on melanin-rich skin.
 
We’re breaking down the difference between the two, how to use them without triggering irritation or uneven tone, and what ingredients are actually safe and effective for correcting dark marks, post-acne scars, and more.
 
🔑 What You’ll Learn:What makes a serum different from a spot treatment
Which ingredients target hyperpigmentation without bleaching
My favorite gentle actives for melanin skin
How to layer your products without causing irritation
Spot treatment mistakes I see way too often
 
✨ Ingredient Spotlights:Niacinamide – calms inflammation & fades dark spots
Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid or THD Ascorbate) – brightens skin tone
Azelaic Acid – fights acne and reduces post-inflammatory marks
Tranexamic Acid – great for stubborn pigmentation
Licorice Root Extract – gentle brightening agent
Sulfur – targets active acne
Salicylic Acid – decongests pores and helps with oil control
📘 FREE E-BOOK:
As a thank-you for helping us hit our 25th episode milestone, I’m extending access to my e-book for a limited time:
🧡 Download Love: A Melanated Skincare Guide – Free Preview (link in episode 25)
 
🛍️ Product Recommendations:
(Non-sponsored, safe for melanin-rich skin)
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
https://www.ulta.com/p/niacinamide-10-zinc-1-pimprod2007102
Naturium Vitamin C Complex Serum
https://www.target.com/p/naturium-vitamin-c-complex-serum-1-fl-oz/-/A-80129682
Paula’s Choice 10% Azelaic Acid Booster
https://www.paulaschoice.com/10-azelaic-acid-booster/8010.html
Topicals Faded Serum (includes tranexamic acid + licorice root)
https://mytopicals.com/products/faded
Peace Out Acne Healing Dots (with Salicylic Acid)
https://www.sephora.com/product/peace-out-acne-healing-dots-P421240
 
💛 Stay Connected with Me:
📲 Instagram: @Skinmaven2025
💼 LinkedIn: Lakischa Morgan 
🎙️ Skintelligent Sundays Podcast – New episodes every Sunday + bonus drops!
 

Episode 25: Celebration-Skincare Essentials for Mature Melanin Skin

We’ve officially made it to Episode 25 of Skintelligent Sundays—and I’m celebrating YOU! Thank you for tuning in, sharing, and being part of this beautiful skincare community.
In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into Skincare Essentials for Mature Melanin Skin. Because aging is a blessing—and our skin deserves to glow gracefully through every stage. I’m sharing my must-haves for healthy, hydrated, and radiant mature melanin-rich skin.
📚 Special Giveaway – TODAY ONLY!
To celebrate this milestone, I’m giving away my ebook:
Love: A Melanated Skincare Guide – FOR FREE!
 
Grab your copy now:
👉 https://read.amazon.com/sample/B0DZ2XPVTF?clientId=share
 
Available today only, while supplies last.
💬 Let’s Connect
Enjoying the show? Don’t forget to:
✅ Share this episode with a friend
✅ Leave a review or rating
✅ Tag me on social @Skinmaven2025 when you download your ebook!
 
Thank you for being part of this journey. Here’s to the next 25 episodes and beyond!
💛 Love the skin you’re in. – Morgan

Episode 24: Microneedling Facts for Melanin-Rich Skin

In this special bonus drop, I'm sharing my personal experience with microneedling and diving into what people with melanin-rich skin should know before booking their first appointment.
 
Whether you’re dealing with texture, scarring, or hyperpigmentation, this episode gives you real facts, practical do’s and don’ts, and the confidence to make informed skincare decisions.
💉 Microneedling can be powerful — but only when done right.
 
🧠 What You’ll Learn:
What microneedling is and how it works
Why melanin-rich skin requires special consideration
My personal results from my recent micro needling  treatment
Biggest mistakes to avoid before and after micro needling
How to protect your glow post-treatment
 
🔥 Mentioned in This Episode:
SPF Finishing Mist – COMING SOON!( Check previous show notes to sign up to be a tester)
Lightweight, hydrating, no white cast. The perfect post-treatment sun protection for melanin-rich skin. Stay tuned for the official launch!
Love: A Melanated Skincare Guide
Written by yours truly!
📚 Available on Amazon and Shopify
Your no-fluff guide to real results for melanin-rich skin.
 
📅 Don’t Miss:
🎉 Episode 25: The Celebration Episode drops this Sunday!
We’re celebrating our 25th episode with reflections, next steps, and special surprises. Set your reminder!
 
💬 Let’s Connect:
Follow @Skinmaven2025 on IG
Join the conversation on LinkedIn: Lakischa Morgan
Subscribe + Leave a review to support melanin-centered skincare education.

Episode 23: Hormones & Skin 101: Why You’re Breaking Out (Even When You’re Doing Everything Right)

In this episode, I keep it real about hormonal breakouts—why they happen, when they hit hardest, and what you can do to manage them without losing your mind (or your glow). From my own experience with cystic acne before cycle time, consistent ways to care for melanin-rich skin, this is a must-listen if your skin acts up monthly like clockwork.
 
What You’ll Learn:
✨ What hormonal acne really is (and why it loves your chin and jawline)
✨ How your cycle affects your skin week by week
✨ My personal experience with painful breakouts & how to manages them
✨ The top ingredients and habits for hormonal skin balance
✨ Why giving yourself grace is part of the healing process
 
Mentioned in This Episode:
📘 Love: A Melanated Skincare Guide —https://a.co/d/5CFk8fQ 
💦 Finishing Mist with SPF — ComingSoon!
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfS9YJloxBPj9_M7T9weEfHqAvMdGBDJA8owFPgTGu5JmG1Aw/viewform
📱 Follow @Skinmaven2025 on Instagram for more tips & product drops
If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend who’s tired of the hormonal rollercoaster. Don’t forget to rate & review Skintelligent Sundays wherever you listen—and subscribe so you never miss an episode.
Let’s Connect:
🔗 Instagram: @Skinmaven2025
🔗 LinkedIn: Lakischa Morgan
🔗 Join the Skintelligent List for exclusive tips, drops & freebies

Bonus Episode 22: The Truth About Pore Size

Think you can shrink your pores? Let’s clear that up—literally. In this episode, I’m breaking down the real science behind pore size and what actually works to make them look smaller, especially for melanin-rich skin.
 
You’ll learn:
✨ What pores really are and why they matter
✨ The truth about “shrinking” pores
✨ Top ingredients and habits that make a difference
✨ Why sunscreen is a non-negotiable (yes, even for melanated skin)
✨ How to love your texture and embrace real skin
 
🧴 COMING SOON: My SPF Finishing Mist — a soft-scented, glow-boosting, no-white-cast mist made for all skin types, with melanin in mind.
→ Make sure you’re on the list for the drop!https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfS9YJloxBPj9_M7T9weEfHqAvMdGBDJA8owFPgTGu5JmG1Aw/viewform
 
📖 Book Mentioned:
Love: A Melanated Skincare Guide — My skincare guide created specifically for Black and brown skin, full of real advice, routines, and results.
→ Grab your copy here: https://a.co/d/35Ke26z
 
📌 Stay Connected:
→ Follow me on IG: @Skinmaven2025
→ Learn more: https://www.linkedin.com/in/skinhealth/
→ Subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Episode 21: Summer Skin Care Prep — For the Culture

In this episode, I break down the must-haves for summer skincare with a special focus on melanin-rich skin. From sunscreen that won’t leave a cast to why water-based moisturizers are your best friend, this episode is a step-by-step guide to prepping your glow — intentionally and unapologetically. Tune in as we prep for the heat, for the culture.
 
What You’ll Learn:
Why sunscreen is non-negotiable for melanin-rich skin
How to pick the right cleanser for sweat + sun
What type of moisturizer won’t clog your pores this summer
The best way to exfoliate without overdoing it
Skin-protective fashion tips (yes, hats count!)
The water + skin glow connection
 
Recommended Products:
Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30
CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser (gel for normal-to-oily, cream for dry)
Naturium Niacinamide Gel Cream 5%
Tatcha The Water Cream (luxury option)
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel (drugstore favorite)
Paula’s Choice BHA Liquid Exfoliant (once a week max in summer!)
 
Mentioned in the episode:
Episode 19: Best Sunscreens for Deeper Tones
Episode 20: Sun Exposure & Hyperpigmentation
 
Subscribe + Listen:
📍 New episodes every Sunday at 7PM EST
🎧 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts + more