Breaking Beauty Podcast

@GlowByRamon is in the house! This week, we’re getting nerdy with NYC-based cosmetic chemist, product developer and aesthetician, Ramón Pagán. Nearly 350,000 social media fans tune in to Ramón’s all-revealing videos, whether he’s pulling back the curtain on mystery ingredients, sharing the secrets to viral skincare formulations or personally whipping  up something to achieve glass skin. Today, Ramón delivers his beauty cheat sheet to think (and shop!) just like a cosmetic chemist.

But first, tune in for a rapid fire round of The Traitors – *skincare edition* – in partnership with our friends at Sephora, where Carlene is on the hot seat to prove which skincare habits are trustworthy, or traitorous lol.

In our conversation with Ramón, you’ll learn about:

• What makes an ingredient “expensive”? Are any $300 creams worth the coin?
• Behind the sunscreen headlines: Why Ramón believes that the recent avobenzone data needs to get more news. 
• “Alcohol-free”: Does your makeup or skincare actually need to be alcohol-free to be safe and/or effective? 
• What makes an ingredient “active” or not?: The real difference between glycerin and vitamin C.
• What Ramon makes of the “friction” online between cosmetic chemists, creators, founders and more. Is there a “right” side? 
• Stay tuned to the end for a “Save or Splurge” cosmetic chemist edition – Ramon shares the products you *actually* need to invest in vs save on. 
• The exact products that Ramón has emptied - time and time again.

🚨BIG NEWS: Breaking Beauty Podcast is going LIVE this March! We’re heading to Brooklyn on March 2 and Toronto on March 5th for live podcast events, hosted by Jill and Carlene. Keep an eye on our Instagram for the full scoop on how to get tickets before they’re gone! Gift bags, gab sessions and much more. We can’t wait to see you.

A Message from today’s show sponsor:

Sephora has quality skincare for every skin type, and knowledgeable Beauty Advisors who you can trust for recommendations. You’ll find top brands like Summer Fridays, Rhode, Laneige and Caudalie. Shop Skincare at Sephora! 

Get social with us and let us know what you think of the episode! Find us on Instagram, Tiktok,X, Threads. Join our private Facebook group. Or give us a call and leave us a voicemail at 1-844-227-0302.   Sign up for our Substack here. Subscribe to our YouTube Channel to watch our episodes! 

For any products or links mentioned in this episode, check out our website: https://breakingbeautypodcast.com/episode-recaps/ 

Related episodes like this: 

• How-To Find a Sunscreen You Can Really Trust With Dr. Michelle Wong, AKA Lab Muffin Beauty Science
• What The Latest Cosmetic Regulations Mean, Nanoparticles in Sunscreen and RIP Beauty Innovation (?!) With Cosmetic Chemist Ron Robinson
• How-To Transition To Your Spring Skincare Routine Like a Dermatologist featuring Dr. Dendy Engelman

*Disclaimer: Unless otherwise stated, all products reviewed are gratis media samples submitted for editorial consideration.* 

Hosts: Carlene Higgins and Jill Dunn 

Theme song, used with permission: Cherry Bomb by Saya
 

Produced by Dear Media Studio 

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In today’s episode, we are stripping back the luxury labels to find the breakthrough products that outperform their pricey counterparts. From the viral Korean “pudding” blushes that have officially infiltrated the drugstore to a $13 watery moisturizer that saturates skin, we’re showcasing “recession-proof” musts that don’t sacrifice your self-care routine.

Shop everything in this episode here

You’ll hear about:

• The “micro-emulsion” breakthrough: Why everyone is buzzing about a $13 milky moisturizer – and the specific way it outshines heavy-duty creams 
• Red carpet secrets for less: The exact $12 lip treat used on Lainey Wilson for the Grammys (and why it might be better than the “status” balms in your bag)
• The return of the “mousse” moment? We road-test the new 16-hour cheek and lip mousse that’s giving us major 2000s nostalgia, now with a sophisticated, K-beauty twist 
• Fresh and flushed: Is red blush low-key the most underrated runway beauty hack? Get in on the viral trend for $12. 
• Foundation innovation: Soft matte is everything in 2026 – and a new small-but-mighty foundation formula is not to be overlooked
• Fragrance that flatters: The $16 glass-bottle “sunshine” scent for hair and body that you’d swear is designed (just in time for Valentine’s Day!)  

🚨BIG NEWS: We are going LIVE this March! We’re heading to Brooklyn and Toronto for a couple of live podcast events, hosted by Jill and Carlene. Keep an eye on our Instagram for the full scoop on how to get tickets before they’re gone! Gift bags, gab sessions and much more. We can’t wait to see you.

For any products or links mentioned in this episode, check out our website: https://breakingbeautypodcast.com/episode-recaps/ 

Get social with us and let us know what you think of the episode! Find us on Instagram, Tiktok,X, Threads. Join our private Facebook group. Or give us a call and leave us a voicemail at 1-844-227-0302.   Sign up for our Substack here. Subscribe to our YouTube Channel to watch our episodes! 

Related episodes: 

• Drugstore Beauty Blowout! #DamnGood Under $20 Finds That SLAY. Plus, The "Wirkin" of Hair??
• Laura Geller’s $1 Million Secrets: Why Gen X Beauty is Taking Over in 2026
• Cassatt Beauty La Pommade Retinoid Ointment Review & First Impressions

PROMO CODES:  When you support our sponsors, you support the creation of Breaking Beauty Podcast!  

Merit

Merit is a minimalist beauty brand that makes elevated makeup and skincare designed to help you look put together in minutes. Right now, Merit Beauty is offering our listeners their Signature Makeup Bag FREE with your first order at meritbeauty.com.

Medik8

Medik8 is a clinically proven British skincare brand known for age-defying results. And don’t miss out – get 25% off the Friends & Family sale, only available online through February 17th at Medik8.us. No code is necessary. Shop now before it’s gone!

Timeline

Don’t let another year go by feeling less than your best. Grab 30% off your first month of Timeline Mitopure Gummies at timeline.com/beauty30 while the offer lasts.

Quince

Refresh your wardrobe with Quince. Go to Quince.com/BREAKINGBEAUTY for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too.  

*Disclaimer: Unless otherwise stated, all products reviewed are gratis media samples submitted for editorial consideration.* 

Hosts: Carlene Higgins and Jill Dunn 

Theme song, used with permission: Cherry Bomb by Saya
 

Produced by Dear Media Studio 

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Salmon Sperm! Spicules! A Surgery-Free Face Lift! This week, it’s a K-Beauty extravaganza as we sit down with board-certified dermatologist Dr. David Kim to unpack it all. Dr Kim is a Korean native with a newly-minted Manhattan practice, Soho Derm, that blends the best of cutting edge Korean aesthetics and western dermatology. Dr. Kim has over 1 million followers across social media and he’s often featured as an expert on The Today Show. 

Tune in to hear about:

• Prevention vs. correction: Why patients in South Korea start treatments in their 20s compared to the “fix-it” mentality often seen in North America
• The “V-Line” vs. sculpted esthetic: Comparing the desire for heart-shaped, “feminine” facial features in Asia versus the "snatched" jaws in the West.
• PDRN (Salmon Sperm DNA): The science behind the viral ingredient, its 10-year history in Korea, and how it’s being used for everything from joint recovery to glowy skin.
• The melasma solution: Why tranexamic acid (as an oral Rx) is a game-changer for pigment and the safety precautions you need to know
• Spicules - friend or foe? What to know about the “Reedle” shots you see all over Tiktok and which one Dr. Kim is personally a fan of
• The treatments to know now: From Pico Laser to treat texture and dark spots to the Xerf tightening treatment that combats laxity, Dr. Kim shares his own personal experience as a guinea pig on what really makes a difference
• What’s on a derm’s top shelf: Stay tuned to the end to hear about the one K-beauty skincare staple Dr. Kim believes everyone should own 
• From derm-to-founder: What makes Dr. Kim’s SPF brand, Lightsaver, different. Pssst - We have a special promo code: head to https://www.lightsaverskin.com and use code Breaking20 for a 20% discount!

Get social with us and let us know what you think of the episode! Find us on Instagram, Tiktok,X, Threads. Join our private Facebook group. Or give us a call and leave us a voicemail at 1-844-227-0302.   Sign up for our Substack here. Subscribe to our YouTube Channel to watch our episodes! 

For any products or links mentioned in this episode, check out our website: https://breakingbeautypodcast.com/episode-recaps/ 

Related episodes like this: 

• Your Ultimate #DamnGood K-Beauty Shopping Guide is Here! Featuring Guest Host and Korean Skincare Expert Ava Lee AKA @GlowWithAva
• #DamnGood Special! Gothamista’s Renée Chow Spills the Secrets of Her At-Home Skincare Routine
• How a K-Beauty Esthetician Gets Her Skin So Glassy with Peach & Lily Founder Alicia Yoon

PROMO CODES:  When you support our sponsors, you support the creation of Breaking Beauty Podcast!  

Nutrafol

Nutrafol is the #1 dermatologist-recommended hair growth supplement brand, trusted by over 1.5 million people. See thicker, stronger, faster-growing hair with less shedding in just 3-6 months with Nutrafol. For a limited time, Nutrafol is offering our listeners $10 off your first month’s subscription and free shipping when you go to Nutrafol.com and enter the promo code BREAKING.

Skims 

Shop SKIMS Fits Everybody collection at SKIMS.com. After you place your order, be sure to let them know we sent you! Select “podcast” in the survey and be sure to select our show in the dropdown menu that follows.  And if you are looking for the perfect gift for your Valentine or for yourself - the SKIMS Valentine’s Shop is now open! 

 #skimspartner

One Skin 

OneSkin’s OS-01 Peptide™ is proven to target the visible signs of aging, helping you unlock your healthiest skin now and as you age. For a limited time, get 15% off OneSkin with the code BREAKINGBEAUTY at https://www.oneskin.co/BREAKINGBEAUTY #oneskinpod. 

*Disclaimer: Unless otherwise stated, all products reviewed are gratis media samples submitted for editorial consideration.* 

Hosts: Carlene Higgins and Jill Dunn 

Theme song, used with permission: Cherry Bomb by Saya
 

Produced by Dear Media Studio 

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week we are diving deep into the world of cosmetic dentistry and oral health with the most in-demand aesthetic dentist on the planet, Dr. Michael Apa. Listen in as Dr. Apa gives us a masterclass on how-to seriously level-up and love the appearance of your teeth – even if you’re on a budget.

You’ll hear about:

• Veneers 101: Pros, cons, costs and what to ask during your very first consultation.
• Invisalign vs braces: Find out which one Dr. Apa would choose – and why.
• Red flags: Dr. Apa shares his “no-go” zones for Botox and how lip fillers and other cosmetic enhancements can impact cosmetic dentistry.
• “Ozempic teeth”: The impact that rapid weight loss can have on your face, and why you should wait to hit your "goal weight" before investing in a smile makeover.
• The never list: The three habits Dr. Apa personally avoids as a leading cosmetic dentist.
• Girl math: If veneers aren't in the budget, Dr. Apa reveals the two non-invasive treatments that offer the biggest “glow-up” for your smile

For any products or links mentioned in this episode, check out our website: https://breakingbeautypodcast.com/episode-recaps/ 

PROMO CODES:  When you support our sponsors, you support the creation of Breaking Beauty Podcast!  

Quince

Refresh your wardrobe with Quince. Don't wait. Go to Quince.com/BREAKINGBEAUTY for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too. 

One Skin

OneSkin’s OS-01 Peptide™ is proven to target the visible signs of aging, helping you unlock your healthiest skin now and as you age. For a limited time, get 15% off OneSkin with the code BREAKINGBEAUTY at https://www.oneskin.co/BREAKINGBEAUTY #oneskinpod. 

Get social with us and let us know what you think of the episode! Find us on Instagram, Tiktok,X, Threads. Join our private Facebook group. Or give us a call and leave us a voicemail at 1-844-227-0302.   Sign up for our Substack here. Subscribe to our YouTube Channel to watch our episodes! 

Related episodes like this: 

• TikTok-Viral Purple Toothpaste, The Best Electric Toothbrush to Invest In and Teeth Whitening Tips With Oral Care Expert Dr. Laurence Walsh
• The Biggest Celebrity Transformations Decoded: A Deep Dive with Dana Omari-Harrell @IGFamousByDana
• Boob Jobs The Ultimate Guide With ‘Natural Aesthetic’ Cosmetic Surgeon Dr. Lara Devgan

*Disclaimer: Unless otherwise stated, all products reviewed are gratis media samples submitted for editorial consideration.* 

Hosts: Carlene Higgins and Jill Dunn 

Theme song, used with permission: Cherry Bomb by Saya
 

Produced by Dear Media Studio 

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week we’re reuniting with Siff Haider - Arrae co-founder and fellow Dear Media podfam -  for a #DamnGood deep dive into the ultimate beauty sleep routine! What’s the perfect room temperature? How about the best calming skincare before bed? The pajamas that are *actually* comfortable and the robe that will make you feel like you’re staying at a 5-star hotel? All will be revealed!

And in true podswap fashion, don’t miss your Breaking Beauty hosts over on Siff’s podcast, Dream Bigger, this week discussing 2026 beauty trends, where we stand on kids using skincare and much more.  Pssst - Subscribe to our YouTube Channel to watch this episode and our back catalog! 

In this week’s episode you’ll hear about:

• Sleep hygiene: How warm is too hot? How cool is too cold? We debate the perfect temperature for optimal sleeping and the mattress to choose if you lean one way or the other.
• From an $18 K-beauty cleansing balm innovation to a splurge-y bath soak, we share our sleepy-time skincare musts.
• Wind-down routine: The nighttime ritual Siff swears by to drift off to La-la-land without a worry.
• To track or not to track? Siff’s review of the Oura ring and whether it’s worth the investment for sleep tracking.
• How Carlene’s C-Pap machine, HRT prescription and anti-depressants have impacted nighttime wake-ups and her energy by day. 
• Magnesium vs. melatonin: Siff explains which sleep-inducing hero ingredient is featured in Arrae formulas – and the reason the other ingredient has lost favour.

For any products or links mentioned in this episode, check out our website: https://breakingbeautypodcast.com/episode-recaps/ 

Get social with us and let us know what you think of the episode! Find us on Instagram, Tiktok,X, Threads. Join our private Facebook group. Or give us a call and leave us a voicemail at 1-844-227-0302.  Sign up for our Substack here. 

Related episodes like this: 

• Your Ultimate #DamnGood K-Beauty Shopping Guide is Here! Featuring Guest Host and Korean Skincare Expert Ava Lee AKA @GlowWithAva
• #DamnGood Special! The Best (And Worst?!) Beauty Innovations of All Time Featuring Guest Editor Brooke DeVard. Plus, Is Clarisonic Back?
• The #DamnGood Skincare Tools That are Actually Worth The Cheddar with Lauryn Bosstick aka The Skinny Confidential

PROMO CODES:  When you support our sponsors, you support the creation of Breaking Beauty Podcast!  

Medik8

Introducing Medik8’s new Niacinamide Peptides Serum! It’s powered by 10% Niacinamide and this multi-active formula is clinically proven to deliver visibly clearer, smoother skin with pore reduction in 7 days. Visit Medik8.us and use code BREAKING20 to save 20% off your order! 

Merit Beauty

Merit is a minimalist beauty brand that makes elevated makeup and skincare designed to help you look put together in minutes. Right now, Merit Beauty is offering our listeners their Signature Makeup Bag with your first order at meritbeauty.com. 

*Disclaimer: Unless otherwise stated, all products reviewed are gratis media samples submitted for editorial consideration.* 

Hosts: Carlene Higgins and Jill Dunn 

Theme song, used with permission: Cherry Bomb by Saya
 

Produced by Dear Media Studio 

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Laura Geller, QVC Queen, legendary makeup artist to the stars and founder of her namesake brand, joins us in the studio! From her early days backstage on Broadway to her latest campaign partnering with Real Housewives of New Jersey star and winner of The Traitors Season 3, Dolores Catania, Laura is proving that Gen X beauty is the main event 2026. 

Listen in as we dive into the backstory behind the famous Laura Geller Baked Balance-n-Brighten Foundation, her "scoop alert" on the brand’s upcoming celebrity collaborations and why she was one of the first founders to insist on using age-appropriate models when everyone else said it wasn't “aspirational.”

You’ll discover:

• Going viral: How Laura Geller’s brand, founded in the 90s, became an Amazon #1 bestseller in 2026 (and had retailers like Sephora and Ulta come calling).
• Broadway secrets: Laura recalls working with Audrey Hepburn, and the no-fail lesson she learned for having stage makeup (and real life looks) last all day 
• The concealer “exchange”: How-to choose the right concealer for “age spots” versus dark under eye circles – and why you should never blend right up to the lash line.
• Eyeliner for textured lids: Pro techniques to stop liquid liner from “skipping” on hooded eyes – and how-to upate an eyeliner look for 2026
• Framing the face: The “Big Three” areas (eyes, lips, cheeks) where we lose definition as we age and how to add “notice me” features back

For any products or links mentioned in this episode, check out our website: https://breakingbeautypodcast.com/episode-recaps/ 

Get social with us and let us know what you think of the episode! Find us on Instagram, Tiktok,X, Threads. Join our private Facebook group. Or give us a call and leave us a voicemail at 1-844-227-0302.   Sign up for our Substack here. Subscribe to our YouTube Channel to watch our episodes! 

Related episodes like this: 

• Bobbi Brown Reveals Her Makeup Secrets & Career Tips: Jones Road Miracle Balm & "Still Bobbi" Memoir
• Timeless Makeup Secrets with Katey Denno
• Patrick Starrr Answers Your Most Googled Makeup Questions!

PROMO CODES:  When you support our sponsors, you support the creation of Breaking Beauty Podcast!  

TIMELINE

Don’t let another year go by feeling less than your best. Grab 30% off your first month of Mitopure Gummies at timeline.com/beauty30 while the offer lasts!

QUINCE

Refresh your wardrobe with Quince. Don't wait! Go to Quince.com/BREAKINGBEAUTY for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too! 

*Disclaimer: Unless otherwise stated, all products reviewed are gratis media samples submitted for editorial consideration.* 

Hosts: Carlene Higgins and Jill Dunn 

Theme song, used with permission: Cherry Bomb by Saya
 

Produced by Dear Media Studio 

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Happy New Year, podfam! In this week’s “State of the Union” episode, we dissect the beauty trends, ideas and brands we predict will dominate in the year ahead. Then, with news of a Buffy The Vampire reboot, stay tuned for a catch up with Sarah Michelle Gellar about 90s nostalgia, budget skincare and how she stays kick-butt ready.

In this episode, you’ll hear: 

• Pajamas? Picture frames? Evening bags? Why beauty brands are all-in on stylish extras in 2026 – and where the expansion trend may come out thin.
• Meet “Patsumers” – the powerful group of beauty influencers said to dictate skincare purchases next
• How K-Beauty “ear seeding” spa treatments are making a DIY face-snatching debut in North America
• Olympic-sized moves: why beauty-meets-sports is finally hitting the mainstream. 
• Sarah Michelle Gellar’s 2.0! The original Vampire Slayer talks to us about her latest role as an Olay ambassador, fave fragrances borrowed from her daughter, best (and worst!) 90s beauty moments and… is there a Buffy reboot in the works?!

For any products or links mentioned in this episode, check out our website: https://breakingbeautypodcast.com/episode-recaps/ 

Get social with us and let us know what you think of the episode! Find us on Instagram, Tiktok,X, Threads. Join our private Facebook group. Or give us a call and leave us a voicemail at 1-844-227-0302.   Sign up for our Substack here. Subscribe to our YouTube Channel to watch our episodes! 

Related episodes like this: 

• 📺Watch on YouTube: Ashley Tisdale: New Haircare Line, Breast Explant Real Talk & Overcoming Anxiety
• Tracee Ellis Ross Shares Her Skincare Secrets, Hair Truths and The One Thing No One Knows About Her
• Kate Hudson’s Secrets To Glowing From The Inside Out

PROMO CODES: When you support our sponsors, you support the creation of Breaking Beauty Podcast!  

Nutrafol

Nutrafol is the #1 dermatologist-recommended hair growth supplement brand, trusted by over 1.5 million people.  See thicker, stronger, faster-growing hair with less shedding in just 3-6 months with Nutrafol. For a limited time, Nutrafol is offering our listeners $10 off your first month’s subscription and free shipping when you go to Nutrafol.com and enter the promo code BREAKING.

Merit

Right now, Merit Beauty is offering our listeners their Signature Makeup Bag with your first order at meritbeauty.com. 

*Disclaimer: Unless otherwise stated, all products reviewed are gratis media samples submitted for editorial consideration.* 

Hosts: Carlene Higgins and Jill Dunn 

Theme song, used with permission: Cherry Bomb by Saya
 

Produced by Dear Media Studio 

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Healthy skin, this way! As we wrap up the year and head into 2026, we’re setting you up for your best skin success with board-certified dermatologist, and Neutrogena consulting dermatologist Dr. Julia Carroll. Dr. Carroll (who happens to be Carlene’s personal derm!) joins us to discuss the core philosophy of healthy skin, revealing the most effective habits we should be adopting now that we're officially in winter – and all year long. 

Dr. Carroll shares the science behind skin barrier repair, dispelling myths about hydration, layering SPF like an expert and identifying the sneaky bad habits that might be secretly sabotaging your skin.

You’ll learn:

• The #1 worst cold-weather ritual you absolutely must stop doing to avoid destroying your skin barrier
• The gentle, derm-approved ingredient you should reach for when you've over-exfoliated and your skin is red and flaky
• The reality of UV rays that penetrate your car and home windows and why your winter skin is exposed even when you're cozy inside
• The lip balm trap: Find out which common ingredients could actually be making your chapped lips worse and encouraging another irritating bad habit.
• The simple hack for your home that helps your skin retain moisture without spending a dime on new face creams.

Get social with us and let us know what you think of the episode! Find us on Instagram, Tiktok,X, Threads. Join our private Facebook group. Or give us a call and leave us a voicemail at 1-844-227-0302. Sign up for our Substack here. Subscribe to our YouTube Channel to watch our episodes! 

For any products or links mentioned in this episode, check out our website: https://breakingbeautypodcast.com/episode-recaps/ 

Related episodes like this: 

• Derm Hot Takes! The Real Deal on Those Viral Hypochlorous Acid Skin Sprays, the Most Legit At-Home Skincare Devices and the Unsexy Vitamin C Serum You Need To Know About Now, According to Board-Certified Dermatologist Dr. Heather Rogers
• A Derm Explains: The Science-Backed Ingredients That Will Help You Achieve Healthy-Looking Skin For Life, What’s Overhyped and Do Those Tiktok Skincare Hacks Actually Do Anything?
• Does Stress *Actually* Age Your Skin? Is Cortisol Face Real? Dermatologist, and Psychiatrist Dr. Amy Wechsler

Thanks to this week’s show partners: 

Neutrogena 

Explore Neutrogena® products designed to support healthy, radiant skin in every season. You can find Neutrogena® products at major retailers like Walmart, Shoppers Drug Mart, and Amazon.ca. For our friends in the US, visit neutrogena.com to learn more.

Quince

Quince has all of the epic essentials you need, for a fraction of the price.  Go to Quince.com/BREAKINGBEAUTY for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too! 

Nutrafol

Nutrafol is the #1 dermatologist-recommended hair growth supplement brand, trusted by over 1.5 million people. Give the gift of confidence this holiday season with Nutrafol. Whether you’re treating yourself or someone on your list, visibly healthier, thicker hair is the gift that keeps on giving. Right now, Nutrafol is offering our listeners $10 off your first month’s subscription plus free shipping when you go to Nutrafol.com and use promo code BREAKING.

*Disclaimer: Unless otherwise stated, all products reviewed are gratis media samples submitted for editorial consideration.* 

Hosts: Carlene Higgins and Jill Dunn 

Theme song, used with permission: Cherry Bomb by Saya
 

Produced by Dear Media Studio 

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week we welcome double board-certified dermatologist AND dermatopathologist, Dr. Aegean Chan to bridge the gap between medical dermatology and your daily skincare routine. Tapping her clinical expertise in medical dermatology, skin cancer and acne, we unwrap Dr. Chan’s professional insights on the skin barrier, sun protection, and why she believes we should be wary of "anec-data" especially when it comes to a $400 serum.

In this week’s episode, we discuss:  

• How truly complex the skin barrier is (as she sees it under a microscope), and why it's the foundation of great skin
• Holiday break ready! Which sunscreen Dr. Chan personally buys in bulk
• Truth bombs about Vitamin C! Why Dr. Chan doesn’t think this hero ingredient is right for everyone
• Why she *doesn’t* think shopping for skincare based on a pH level is a necessary strategy
• What Dr. Chan makes of transdermal patches for skincare – are they the future of youthful skin?
• Plus: Should we rethink trending, in-office procedures like radiofrequency combined with microneedling per recent FDA guidelines?  

For any products or links mentioned in this episode, check out our website: https://breakingbeautypodcast.com/episode-recaps/ 

Get social with us and let us know what you think of the episode! Find us on Instagram, Tiktok,X, Threads. Join our private Facebook group. Or give us a call and leave us a voicemail at 1-844-227-0302.   Sign up for our Substack here. Subscribe to our YouTube Channel to watch our episodes! 

Related episodes like this: 

• Derm Hot Takes! The Real Deal on Those Viral Hypochlorous Acid Skin Sprays, the Most Legit At-Home Skincare Devices and the Unsexy Vitamin C Serum You Need To Know About Now
• Are You Applying Your Sunscreen the Right Way? Plus Myth-Busting Those Rage-Bait SPF Headlines, Tanning on Trial and More With Board-Certified Dermatologist Dr. Michelle Henry
• Dr. Muneeb Shah aka @DermDoctor On Starter Skincare Routines For Aging Skin, The New Accutane-Alternative For Acne and Should You Mix Your Rx Retinol With Drugstore Moisturizer??

PROMO CODES:  When you support our sponsors, you support the creation of Breaking Beauty Podcast!  

Seed

Get ahead of the New Year with a routine that helps you now by going to Seed.com/BEAUTY and use code BEAUTY to get 20% off your first month of Seed’s DS-01® Daily Synbiotic.

Curology 

Enjoy our limited-time holiday offer — a personalized prescription FREE with your subscription, all you pay is $5.45 shipping and handling! To claim this offer, go to curology.com/beauty to take Curology’s skin quiz! In just a few minutes, you’ll share your skin concerns and upload a few photos for a licensed dermatology provider, who will create a custom treatment plan tailored to your unique goals. Restrictions apply. See website for full details and important safety information.

*Disclaimer: Unless otherwise stated, all products reviewed are gratis media samples submitted for editorial consideration.* 

Hosts: Carlene Higgins and Jill Dunn 

Theme song, used with permission: Cherry Bomb by Saya
 

Produced by Dear Media Studio 

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In our 2025 Beauty Year in Review, we’re getting "spicy" about the industry’s biggest wins and flops. Listen in to hear all about the viral Guadalajara facelift taking over TikTok, the rise of cosmetic surgery transparency and the slice of good news impacting young women in beauty (finally!).

As beauty conglomerates shift their focus, we break down why integrity is the new authenticity and how the "glam squad" is officially outshining the A-list celebrity brand. Plus, we celebrate Gen X beauty finally having its main character moment, all thanks to Carlene (we kid, we kid).

You’ll hear about:

• Kylie Jenner’s momentous silicone implant reveal, Simone Biles’ blepharoplasty and why everyone is talking about the Guadalajara facelift lady in the "year of the Hollywood facelift." 
• How the over-40 demographic is reclaiming the spotlight, both at retail and with a new wave of beauty creators.
• Why 2025 saw a shift toward expert-led lines like Hung Vanngo and Chris McMillan, and why hiring Diarrha N’Diaye-Mbaye (formerly of Ami Colé) was a genius credibility play for Skims Beauty.
• Product Placement on blast: Why "Nobody Wants This" & "All’s Fair" peeved off so many viewers in so little time.
• A candid look at the public call-outs taking over our group chats 
• The "Integrity Deficit"- unpacking DEI backpedalling and what it means for Big Beauty.

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• Lisa Eldridge Shares All Her Makeup Secrets! 
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• Why Blepharoplasty is Everywhere Right Now With Oculoplastic Surgeon Dr Babak Maleki

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