About this episode
Join us as we host Dr. Yug Varma, co-founder of Phyla, who shared the scientific journey and innovative solutions behind the brand. Dr. Varma's extensive knowledge of phage technology and microbiome research, combined with his academic background, led to the creation of Phyla. He identified a significant gap in acne treatment, noting that most existing solutions are based on outdated technologies. This realization, coupled with a desire to innovate in a stagnant market, fueled his mission to develop a novel approach to acne care. Dr. Varma highlighted the limitations of traditional acne treatments, such as benzoyl peroxide, Accutane, and retinoids. These treatments often come with side effects and are not always effective in the long term. He emphasized the need for more advanced and targeted solutions, pointing out that the current market fails to address the root causes of acne effectively. Central to Phyla's innovation is phage technology. Dr. Varma explained that phages, or bacteriophages, are viruses that specifically target and kill bacteria. Research has shown that phages targeting C-acnes bacteria are more prevalent on healthy skin than acne-prone skin. This insight led to the development of Phyla's products, which utilize phages to selectively target and eliminate acne-causing bacteria without disturbing the beneficial bacteria on the skin. Dr. Varma reassured listeners that phages are less likely to induce resistance compared to antibiotics. Phyla's extensive testing has shown that their phages do not quickly induce resistance, making them a robust solution for long-term acne management. He discussed the effectiveness of Phyla's products, noting that they deliver results relatively quickly. For hormonal acne, improvements can be seen within days or a week. For cystic acne, the technology gradually rebalances the microbiome, reducing inflammation and preventing relapses. This targeted approach minimizes side effects and provides a sustainable solution for acne sufferers. Dr. Varma advocates for a minimalist approach to skincare, focusing on key products that promote skin health without overwhelming the consumer. Phyla offers a streamlined product line, emphasizing quality and efficacy over quantity. Tune in to learn more! Explore PHYLA Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.