To The Root

Latest Episodes:

5 Acne Types & How They Present Apr 08, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of To The Root, Robyn Spangler offers an in-depth look at the five types of acne from a root cause perspective—not just what’s happening on your skin, but why. Rather than relying on surface-level solutions or trendy product fixes, Robyn walks you through how acne can be driven by hormonal imbalances, underlying infections, chronic inflammation, topical irritants, and even cellular stress.

Backed by over a decade of clinical experience, she explains how each category can show up on the skin, what patterns may signal deeper internal imbalances, and why personalized lab testing is often the missing link in resolving persistent acne. If you’ve tried “all the things” and still feel stuck, this episode helps connect the dots between what’s happening beneath the surface and what’s showing up in the mirror.

Whether you're dealing with chin breakouts, cystic flare-ups, or body acne that doesn’t respond to topical treatments, this episode provides the clarity and direction you need to take the next step in your skin health journey.
Tune in now!
Get root cause answers with data - check out our Acne Labs Panel!

Highlights:

The Five Root Causes of Acne: hormonal, infection, inflammation, irritant, and stress-related—how each presents and what to look for.
Understanding Hormonal Imbalances: Why it's rarely just about testosterone, and the deeper mechanisms that disrupt skin health.
Gut-Skin Connection: How internal infections, dysbiosis, or even topical fungal imbalances may be influencing your breakouts.
Chronic Inflammation: What it looks like on the skin, how to identify the sources, and why repair is just as important as removal.
Irritant vs. Immune Response: When your acne may be a reaction to products, fabrics, or a more complex immune system dysfunction.
The Role of Cellular Stress: How nutrient depletion, mitochondrial function, and mineral imbalances impact your skin’s resilience.
Combination Cases: Why most chronic acne cases involve more than one root cause—and the importance of a tailored approach.

Connect with Robyn:

Instagram: @nutritionbyrobyn

Website: https://www.theclearskinlab.com

Acne Medications Decoded: Part 4 - Accutane Mar 25, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of To The Root, Robyn Spangler takes a comprehensive look at one of the most powerful and controversial acne treatments available: Accutane (Isotretinoin). Often considered a last-resort medication for severe acne, Accutane’s effects go far beyond the skin.

Robyn breaks down how this synthetic form of vitamin A works at the genetic level to reduce oil production and suppress inflammation—and why those same mechanisms can lead to lasting impacts on nutrient metabolism, immune function, and gut health. She explores both the short- and long-term side effects, including dryness, liver stress, mood changes, and even changes in iron and copper regulation.

Whether you’re currently on Accutane, considering it, or navigating the after-effects, this episode provides valuable context to help you make informed decisions and support your health post-treatment. Robyn also outlines actionable steps for restoring skin barrier function, gut health, and nutrient balance after Accutane. Listen now!

Explore The Clear Skin Lab’s free course at theclearskinlab.com/freecourse for an evidence-based path forward.

Highlights:

How Accutane works by binding to retinoic acid receptors and altering gene expression
Why Accutane is effective—and what that reveals about sebum and inflammation-driven acne
The lesser-known long-term effects on vitamin A metabolism, iron/copper regulation, and gut health
The connection between Accutane and chronic dryness, joint pain, gut permeability, and even IBD
What to prioritize in post-Accutane recovery: skin barrier support, gut repair, and immune modulation
Why acne may return after treatment—and what it means if it does
Nutritional and lifestyle strategies for rebuilding internal balance and long-term skin health

Connect with Robyn:

Instagram: @nutritionbyrobyn

Website: https://www.theclearskinlab.com

Acne Medications Decoded: Part 3 - Antibiotics Mar 11, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of To The Root, Robyn Spangler takes a deep dive into the role of antibiotics in acne treatment—how they work, why they’re commonly prescribed, and the long-term effects that are often overlooked. While antibiotics can temporarily reduce acne by targeting bacteria and inflammation, they do not address the underlying causes, leading many individuals to experience recurring breakouts once treatment stops.

Robyn explores the impact of prolonged antibiotic use, including microbiome disruption, mitochondrial damage, and antibiotic resistance. She also discusses key insights into what it means if antibiotics worked for your acne—or if they didn’t—and what that can reveal about your skin’s true root causes.

If you’ve been prescribed antibiotics for acne or are considering them, this episode provides essential information to help you make an informed decision about your skin health. Tune in now!

Looking for a more sustainable path to clear skin? Explore The Clear Skin Lab’s free course, where Robyn outlines a science-backed approach to identifying and addressing acne at the root cause. Get started at theclearskinlab.com/freecourse !

Highlights:

How antibiotics manage acne and why they don’t provide a long-term solution.
The impact of antibiotics on gut health, immune function, and mitochondrial energy production.
Why acne often returns after stopping antibiotics.
What your response to antibiotics can reveal about the root causes of your acne.
Alternative approaches to addressing acne by focusing on skin health at a deeper level.

Connect with Robyn:

Instagram: @nutritionbyrobyn

Website: https://www.theclearskinlab.com

Acne Medications Decoded: Part 2 - Birth Control Feb 25, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of To The Root, Robyn Spangler takes a comprehensive look at hormonal birth control and its complex relationship with acne. While birth control is commonly used to prevent pregnancy, it is also often relied upon as a solution for acne. But does it truly address the underlying causes of acne, or is it merely masking the symptoms? Robyn breaks down how hormonal birth control works to suppress acne, why it may be effective for some individuals but not others, and the critical difference between suppression and treatment.

Robyn explains the science behind hormonal birth control’s impact on hormone levels, particularly its effects on estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, and how these imbalances contribute to acne. She also addresses what happens when you stop birth control, the potential for rebound acne, and why understanding your root causes is essential for lasting skin health.

This episode provides a deeper understanding of how hormonal birth control influences your skin and offers valuable insights into what steps to take for a more sustainable approach to clear skin. Tune in now!

Highlights:

How birth control works to suppress acne, and why it doesn’t solve the root cause.
Understanding the relationship between estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone in acne development.
Why some types of birth control can worsen acne for certain individuals.
The potential for acne flare-ups when discontinuing birth control and strategies to manage it.
How hormonal imbalances might be linked to underlying health factors and how to address them for long-term skin health.

Connect with Robyn:

Instagram: @nutritionbyrobyn

Website: https://www.theclearskinlab.com

Acne Medications Decoded: Part 1 - Spironolactone Feb 12, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of To The Root, Robyn Spangler takes a deep dive into Spironolactone—one of the most commonly prescribed medications for hormonal acne. Originally developed to treat high blood pressure, this medication has gained popularity for its ability to reduce androgen-driven acne. But does it address the root cause, or is it merely a temporary solution?

Robyn explores the science behind Spironolactone, how it impacts androgen levels, and why it works for some but not others. She also discusses key considerations such as potential rebound breakouts, the role of potassium balance, and what its effectiveness (or lack thereof) can reveal about your underlying skin health. Whether you're currently using Spironolactone, considering it, or looking for long-term solutions, this episode provides essential insights to help you make informed decisions about your skincare journey.

Tune in now to gain clarity on Spironolactone’s role in acne treatment and explore holistic strategies for lasting skin health!

Highlights:

Understanding Androgen-Driven Acne: How Spironolactone suppresses androgens and its impact on sebum production.
Rebound Effects & Discontinuation: Why acne may return after stopping the medication and how to prevent it.
The Role of Potassium: How Spironolactone affects potassium levels and why proper mineral balance is crucial.
Assessing Your Acne Type: What it means if Spironolactone worked for you—or didn’t—and how that can guide your root cause approach.
Long-Term Considerations: Why addressing underlying factors like insulin resistance, stress, and hormonal imbalances is key to sustainable skin health.

Connect with Robyn:

Instagram: @nutritionbyrobyn

Website: https://www.theclearskinlab.com

Iron & Skin Troubles: The Hidden Connection Jan 28, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of To The Root, Robyn Spangler unpacks the complex and often misunderstood relationship between iron and skin health. Going beyond the traditional “eat more iron” advice, Robyn explains how iron recycling within the body plays a critical role in addressing skin issues like acne, eczema, and inflammation. Discover why conventional blood tests might miss key factors, how poor iron recycling could be fueling your skin problems, and actionable insights to support better skin and overall health.From understanding the body’s iron-balancing act to identifying how copper, vitamin A, and even daily habits affect your skin, Robyn delivers an in-depth exploration of this essential nutrient and its impact on beauty from the inside out. Whether you’re struggling with persistent skin issues or just want to optimize your health, this episode is packed with evidence-based strategies to help you take action. Listen now to uncover the root of your skin concerns and start your journey to lasting clarity!

Highlights:

Iron’s Role in Skin Health: How iron supports your skin, hormones, and energy levels—and why balance is key.
The Recycling System: A simplified breakdown of the body’s natural iron recycling process and why it often malfunctions.
Hidden Causes of Skin Issues: How oxidative stress, inflammation, and poor nutrient balance can create the perfect storm for skin problems.
Common Missteps in Treatment: Why adding more iron may not always be the solution and how proper testing can uncover the real issues.
Personalized Solutions: The role of copper, vitamin A, and other nutrients in optimizing iron recycling for healthier skin.

Connect with Robyn:

Instagram: @nutritionbyrobyn

Website: https://www.theclearskinlab.com

Got Acne? The Dairy-Acne Dilemma Explained Jan 14, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of To The Root, Robyn Spangler kicks off 2025 with a focused discussion on the complex connection between dairy and acne, cutting through the noise of common myths and diving into research, clinical experience, and actionable insights. From discussing the role of skim milk in acne studies to addressing root causes like metabolism, gut health, and nutrient balance, Robyn provides a comprehensive approach to understanding this controversial topic.
Robyn also draws from over a decade of client experience to provide insight into addressing skin health without resorting to restrictive elimination diets. Whether you’re navigating dietary restrictions or seeking sustainable ways to achieve clear skin, this episode offers evidence-based strategies and actionable guidance. Listen now!

Highlights:

The Dairy Debate: Analyzing why skim milk is frequently linked to acne and the theories behind it, from glycemic index concerns to hormonal content.
Fluoride and Iodine: A hidden battle in your body that might be affecting your skin.
Beyond Elimination Diets: Why restrictive diets are often unnecessary and how to address the root causes of food sensitivities.
Finding the Real Cause: How your gut health, metabolism, and personalized testing can actually solve your skin problems.
Bringing Back Dairy: How to enjoy yogurt and other dairy without upsetting your skin.

Connect with Robyn:

Instagram: @nutritionbyrobyn

Website: https://www.theclearskinlab.com

Eat Your Way to Clear Skin: Diet Tips for Acne-Prone Skin Dec 17, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of To The Root, Robyn Spangler outlines the essential steps for achieving clear skin by addressing foundational health habits. She breaks down practical strategies for improving skin health through proper nutrition, balanced movement, stress resilience, and gut support. Robyn explains how prioritizing the basics, like eating enough food, managing stress, and incorporating mineral-rich choices, can make a significant impact before diving into advanced protocols or testing. Whether you're managing your own skin concerns or working with clients, this episode provides actionable insights for sustainable skin healing.

Highlights:

The importance of eating breakfast within 60 minutes of waking and balancing meals with protein, healthy carbs, and fats.
How to assess if you’re under-eating and its impact on skin health and metabolism.
The role of minerals in skin healing and the benefits of incorporating mineral mocktails into your routine.
Why overtraining and stress can slow skin recovery and how to adjust your exercise and recovery habits.
Strategies for supporting gut health with prebiotic and probiotic foods.
When to move from foundational practices to personalized testing and targeted interventions.

Connect with Robyn:

Instagram: @nutritionbyrobyn

Website: https://www.theclearskinlab.com

Healing Acne Naturally: Alternatives to Harsh Medications Dec 03, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the To The Root Podcast, Robyn Spangler R.D. outlines a practical, evidence-based approach to addressing acne at its root causes. She discusses the five primary contributors to acne—hormones, infections, inflammation, stress, and topical irritants—and explains why restrictive diets and quick-fix solutions often fail to provide lasting results. Robyn also shares insights on how past acne medications like Accutane, antibiotics, or Spironolactone can offer valuable clues about underlying issues. Whether you're managing your own skin concerns or supporting clients in their journey, this episode offers a clear roadmap to natural, sustainable skin healing.

For a deeper understanding of skin healing, visit theclearskinlab.com/freecourse to access Robyn’s free two-part video training and a comprehensive mineral guide. Get started on the path to clear skin today.
Use the code ROOT at check-out for 10% off Rayvi: https://rayvishop.com/

Highlights:

Identifying the five key drivers of acne and their subcategories.
Why addressing root causes can eliminate the need for long-term dietary restrictions.
How medications reveal patterns in hormonal, inflammatory, or infection-driven acne.
The role of testing in uncovering hidden contributors like gut health, mineral depletion, and iron overload.
How stress impacts skin health and the importance of improving stress resilience.

Connect with Robyn:

Instagram: @nutritionbyrobyn

Website: https://www.theclearskinlab.com

Skin SOS: Navigating Hormonal Breakouts Before and During Your Period Nov 19, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the To The Root Podcast, Robyn Spangler R.D. addresses a common concern for many women: hormonal breakouts before and during the menstrual cycle. Robyn explores the underlying causes of hormonal acne, breaking down key contributors like androgens, insulin, low progesterone, and iodine deficiencies. She explains why a personalized approach, backed by data and testing, is essential to addressing acne at its root instead of relying on temporary fixes. If you're looking for actionable steps to understand and manage hormonal breakouts, this episode provides clear insights and strategies to help you move forward.
For a deeper dive into strategies and testing for clear skin, visit Clear Skin Lab to access Robyn’s free two-part video series. Get the tools and insights you need to tackle hormonal breakouts at their root.

Highlights:

Identifying hormonal acne: What patterns and timing reveal about the root cause.
The role of androgens, low progesterone, and insulin in acne development.
Why ovulation-related breakouts might point to iodine or histamine imbalances.
The limitations of quick-fix supplements and the importance of addressing root causes.
Practical advice on testing and steps to improve cellular health and hormone balance.
Why a tailored approach is key to effective and sustainable acne solutions.

Connect with Robyn:

Instagram: @nutritionbyrobyn

Website: https://www.theclearskinlab.com