Dr. Sarah Villafranco: Sensitive Skin SOS, Clean Beauty Myths, Eczema + Toxophobia

In this episode of The Art of Being Well, I sit down with Dr. Sarah Villafranco, a former emergency medicine physician turned skincare pioneer and founder of Osmia. We talk about her unique journey from the ER to creating artisanal, science-backed skincare products, inspired by her own struggles with skin conditions like perioral dermatitis. Dr. Villafranco shares practical, empowering advice for supporting sensitive skin, identifying triggers, and making small but impactful changes to improve overall skin health. We also dive into the growing phenomenon of “toxophobia,” exploring how to find balance in a world hyper-focused on “clean beauty.” This conversation blends science, self-care, and the art of wellness for anyone looking to nurture their skin and their health.

Dr. Sarah Villafranco attended Georgetown University Medical School, and went on to complete her residency in emergency medicine at George Washington University. She moved to Colorado, where she practiced as a board-certified emergency medicine physician at Aspen Valley Hospital, Snowmass Clinic, and Valley View Hospital in Glenwood Springs, CO. After losing her mother to pancreatic cancer, she took a local soap making class, and fell in love with the chemistry and artistry of making soap. Unsure how to justify leaving a career in medicine to start a skincare brand, Sarah went into research mode and was alarmed to learn how many potentially harmful ingredients were in most skincare products on the market. She knew she could make better, safer products that were as effective (if not more so) than conventional products. After a few years of research and development, Sarah stepped away from the emergency room to launch Osmia Skincare in April of 2012. She remains a licensed physician in Colorado, and now helps people find healthier, happier skin as CEO of the brand.

A few of my favorite things we cover in this episode: 

• Dr. Sarah Villafranco’s journey through medical training and how it shaped her passion for health and wellness.
• What inspired her career transition from emergency medicine to artisanal skincare.
• Reflections on the challenges and rewards of working in emergency medicine and Western medicine.
• How her personal struggles with skin conditions like perioral dermatitis and cheilitis influenced her product formulations.
• The differences between artisanal, old-fashioned soaps and modern commercial alternatives.
• Exploring the sensitive skin epidemic and why issues like eczema and dermatitis are becoming more common.
• Common triggers for skin conditions and simple changes to support healthier skin.
• The concept of "toxophobia" and the importance of maintaining balance when considering skincare ingredients.
• Trusting experts and understanding the importance of appropriate ingredient doses for individual needs.
• The role of personalized care in helping customers navigate powerful skincare ingredients effectively.

Links to things we talked about in this episode: 

• Visit osmiaskincare.com and use code WILLCOLE for 20% off your first purchase.
• Go to Quince.com/willcole for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns.
• VEGAMOUR.com/willcole, code willcole to save twenty percent on your first order
• Resist aging at the cellular level, try Qualia Senolytic. Go to Qualialife.com/WILLCOLE for 50% off and use code WILLCOLE at check out for an additional 15% off.

Happy listening and we hope you learned a little bit more on the art of being well!

If you like what you hear, please rate and review the podcast, hit subscribe and pass it along to a friend.

In Health,

Dr. Will Cole