Beauty by the Beaker

We are cosmetic chemists, and today we are uncovering secrets behind hair care myths, product hype, and what science actually says about styling and cleansing routines in this lively Q&A. From horse shampoos to curl conditioners, discover whether your favorite products are worth the hype, and learn how to optimize your routine, even in hard water or with stubborn color fades.Ever wondered if rinsing with cold water truly seals the cuticle or if hot water strips your hair? Want to know why curly hair responds differently to shampoos or whether you should really avoid sulfate shampoos for color preservation? We break down these common doubts and share surprising insights straight from the lab, demystifying marketing claims and giving you practical, science-backed advice.Discover why hair pH matters, how to choose shampoos that work in hard water, and the truth about the influence of temperature and water type on your hair health. We also explore the real reasons behind product overhype. Including some specific brands that may not deserve the praise — and how to identify the best beauty solutions for your concerns.This episode is perfect for anyone tired of being overwhelmed by endless product choices or questioning the marketing spin. If you’re a curly girl aiming for bouncy curls, a color-treated hair enthusiast, or simply want to optimize your routine, you'll gain insights to make smarter decisions and avoid wasting money. Plus, get a peek into how chemistry impacts everyday beauty routines.Natalie and Sadie are both cosmetic chemists with years of experience formulating skincare and hair care products. Together they are answering your burning questions and bringing clarity to the world of cosmetics.Tune in to decode the myths and make informed choices, because you deserve hair that looks and feels amazing, backed by science, not hype.Welcome to Beauty by the Beaker, the podcast where Sciences Gets a Hot New Makeover! We're two cosmetic chemists who want to reveal what really goes into your favorite products. Join us in the Science Salon! Whether you’re a skincare enthusiast, a curious consumer, or just tired of being told coconut oil cures everything, you’re in the right place. Let's gossip about all things beauty together! Pull up a chair, your appointment's about to start.Visit our website to read more about this episode and check out our blog post with sources.https://www.beautyxbeaker.com/Join us on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube!@beautyxbeaker@natbxb@sadiebxbContact us at info@beautyxbeaker.comSpecial thanks to Flip Twogood for our photos and Hailey Romero for our branding.

Do you know truth behind terms like "non-comedogenic"? Most skincare claims are based on estimates and outdated science, In this eye-opening episode, cosmetic chemists Sadie and Natalie reveal the hidden flaws in skincare labeling, and why "non-comedogenic" means little without proper evidence, and how marketing exploits consumer fears.If you have shopped for cosmetics you have probably come across the term non comedogenic, but what does that really mean? In this episode we are talking all about what it actually takes to be permitted to legally use the words non comedogenic on your product, shockingly its not much. We are introducing a new more robust term, acnegenic, which tells us more about the likelyhood of a clogged pore actually leading to acne. We are also talking about some different ways that you can find products that work well with your skin and don't break you out. In this Episode we cover: Why the term "non-comedogenic" is virtually unregulated and how companies often label products without rigorous testingThe differences between non-comedogenic, non-acnegenic, and their relevance for acne-prone skinHow current testing methods like rabbit ear studies and acne checkers often give misleading resultsThe truth about FDA regulations, recent legislation like MoCRA, and why most cosmetic claims are just marketingPractical advice on patch testing, ingredient concentrations, and how to avoid pore-clogging ingredients without falling for buzzwordsEmpower you to ask better questions and make smarter choices. Perfect for skincare enthusiasts, dermatology skeptics, and anyone navigating the confusing world of beauty marketing, this deep dive will have you questioning labels and understanding what truly matters when it comes to healthy skin.Science is still learning, and skincare brands are often a few steps behind—don't be fooled by marketing. Arm yourself with knowledge and make decisions grounded in real science, not just buzzwords.Welcome to Beauty by the Beaker, the podcast where Sciences Gets a Hot New Makeover! We're two cosmetic chemists who want to reveal what really goes into your favorite products. Join us in the Science Salon! Whether you’re a skincare enthusiast, a curious consumer, or just tired of being told coconut oil cures everything, you’re in the right place. Let's gossip about all things beauty together! Pull up a chair, your appointment's about to start.Visit our website to read more about this episode and check out our blog post with sources.Join us on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube!@beautyxbeaker@natbxb@sadiebxbContact us at info@beautyxbeaker.comSpecial thanks to Flip Twogood for our photos and Hailey Romero for our branding.

How do we know which skincare ingredients actually work? Do cosmetics even work? Or are over the counter topical drugs the only way to reliably treat problem skin? In this discussion episode, hosts Natalie and Sadie reveal why some treatments are prescription-only while others are OTC, and why this matters more than you think. This week we are continuing our retinol conversation, and also revisiting some of our other recent topics like PDRN and Reale Actives, and explaining why cosmetic brands have no incentive to do good scientific studies. Discover how the FDA's outdated definitions make it tricky for brands to bring effective ingredients to market, and learn why some companies boldly blur the lines with ambitious claims. Uncover the real science behind retinoids, PDRN, and other active ingredients, debunking myths about strength, formulation, and regulation.We are breaking down why tretinoin is prescription-only, but other retinoids aren't.The complex dance between FDA definitions, bioavailability, and product efficacy, and why some ingredients get labeled as drugs while others stay in the cosmetic market, despite similar effects. We’re chatting about practical tips for choosing safer, more effective skincare, whether you’re a novice or seasoned professional. In a world flooded with confusing claims and fluctuating regulations, knowing the difference could save you time, money, and skin misery. This episode is perfect for anyone overwhelmed by skincare choices or curious about the real science behind the products you use daily.Join us as we navigate the regulatory retinol maze, and remember that slow and steady wins the vitamin A race. Your skin will thank you. Welcome to Beauty by the Beaker, the podcast where Sciences Gets a Hot New Makeover! We're two cosmetic chemists who want to reveal what really goes into your favorite products, and we aren't afraid to bust some myths while doing it. Whether you’re a skincare enthusiast, a curious consumer, or just tired of being told coconut oil cures everything, you’re in the right place. Let's gossip about all things beauty together! Pull up a chair, your appointment's about to start.Visit our website to read more about this episode and check out our blog post with sources.Join us on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube!@beautyxbeaker@natbxb@sadiebxbContact us at info@beautyxbeaker.comSpecial thanks to Flip Twogood for our photos and Hailey Romero for our branding.

PDRN is the trending skincare ingredient derived from salmon sperm that promises rapid skin repair. Is all the hype justified, or is it just another trendy ingredient with little scientific backing? Before you decide to spend your money on PDRN, this episode is a must-listen.We are Sadie and Natalie, two cosmetic chemists who love to chat. This week we are pulling back the curtain on PDRN’s fishy origins. You’ll discover the biggest hurdle when formulating with this ingredient, size limitations of molecules, and whether it truly penetrates the skin or just sits on the surface. We are breaking down the difference between topical and injectable studies, reveal why most of the science so far is weak, and question whether the ingredient is as miraculous as marketing suggests.We cover the ‘evidence’ that makes PDRN a perfect example of the “miracle ingredient” trap. Touting claims that it heals wounds, supports DNA repair, and rejuvenates skin without solid evidence. You'll learn what the real science says about skin penetration, whether plant-based PDRN is a marketing gimmick, and what ingredients are actually doing the heavy lifting in those luxury serums. Plus, get the inside scoop on why this salmon-derived component may be more wasteful than sustainable, and whether current regulations are actually protecting consumers, or just letting false claims slide.Essential listening for skincare enthusiasts, trend skeptics, or anyone tired of miracle marketing. If you're questioning the true value of the latest trend, this episode will help you cut through the hype with science-backed insights and honest analysis. Should you run from PDRN or explore its potential? Tune in to find out, and decide for yourself.Curious about how much of what you’re told about skincare ingredients is marketing magic? This episode is your guide to navigating the murky waters of beauty claims, and whether PDRN deserves a place in your routine. Get ready to rethink what “regenerative” really means, and discover what science (and common sense) have to say about this trendy ingredient.Welcome to Beauty by the Beaker, the podcast where Sciences Gets a Hot New Makeover! We're two cosmetic chemists who want to reveal what really goes into your favorite products, and we aren't afraid to bust some myths while doing it. Whether you’re a skincare enthusiast, a curious consumer, or just tired of being told coconut oil cures everything, you’re in the right place. Let's gossip about all things beauty together! Pull up a chair, your appointment's about to start.CORRECTIONS: PDRN is primarily sourced as a byproduct of the food industryHuman Stem Cells are not used in cosmetics, but Stem Cell conditioned media is. Go Check Out Chemist Confessions Take on PDRN: https://chemistconfessions.com/blogs/pdrn-skincare-hype-vs-realityVisit our website to read more about this episode and check out our blog post with sources.Join us on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube!@beautyxbeaker@natbxb@sadiebxbContact us at info@beautyxbeaker.comSpecial thanks to Flip Twogood for our photos and Hailey Romero for our branding.

This week we are jumping into a highly requested topic - synthetic food dyes. But in order to really answer the question - Do we need to fear Red 40 - we first need to go over some of the history of Dyes. It turns out humans love colors, and we have for as long as we have been around. We talk about the first synthetic dye, mauvine, which was made on accident when an 18 year old chemist was trying to make medicine out of coal tar. We also talk about the first synthetic pigment, which was a much earlier - Egyptian Blue. We are discussing the history of synthetic dyes in food. And talking about the specific reasons why Red gets so much hate. We are talking about some of the big color events that shook the food industry and led to the banning of Orange 1, Red 2. And the more recent controversy surrounding red 3. Plus we are addressing some of the common claims around synthetic dyes and reminding you that natural doesn't always equal better. Welcome to Beauty by the Beaker, the podcast where Sciences Gets a Hot New Makeover! We're two cosmetic chemists who want to reveal what really goes into your favorite products, and we aren't afraid to bust some myths while doing it. Whether you’re a skincare enthusiast, a curious consumer, or just tired of being told coconut oil cures everything, you’re in the right place. Let's gossip about all things beauty together! Pull up a chair, your appointment's about to start.Visit our website to read more about this episode and check out our blog post with sources.Join us on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube!@beautyxbeaker@natbxb@sadiebxbContact us at info@beautyxbeaker.comSpecial thanks to Flip Twogood for our photos and Hailey Romero for our branding.

This week we are putting an end to greenwashing in cosmetics! (If only it was that easy) Welcome to Beauty by the Beaker, the podcast where Sciences Gets a Hot New Makeover! We're two cosmetic chemists who want to reveal what really goes into your favorite products, and we aren't afraid to bust some myths while doing it. Whether you’re a skincare enthusiast, a curious consumer, or just tired of being told coconut oil cures everything, you’re in the right place. Let's gossip about all things beauty together! Pull up a chair, your appointment's about to startCHAPTERS00:00: Catching up about being the luckiest girls in the world05.59: Greenwashing! What is it? Who is doing it? Who does it affect? Breaking down some of the sneaky marketing tricks that companies use to make their cosmetic products seem better for the environment than they actually are. We are going over the 7 sins.09:40: Sin 1, the Sin of The Hidden Trade Off. The company might be making small efforts that appear to be sustainable - is this a positive solution, or a distraction to a larger problem? 13:59: Sin 2, the Sin of No Proof. Companies who make claims about their sustainability efforts, but don’t have the receipts. Discussing future washing, and one very big example of greenwashing: reef safe sunscreen. We hate to break it to you, but switching to mineral sunscreen isn’t going to save our coral. 19:32: Sin 3, the Sin of Vagueness. You have probably heard of ‘clean beauty’ but what does clean even mean? Turns out, companies have found a lot of wording loopholes to market their products, and if you can’t define something you can’t deny it either. This strategy relies on consumer confusion, and allows companies to benefit from association without actually doing anything. Boo24:04: Sin 4, the Sin of Irrelevance. This is kind of like companies giving themselves participation awards and we see it all the time. Paraben Free? Good for you! So is everyone else (mostly, and unfortunately)! So this is when a brand will say things just to say them, does it have anything to do with their product? No. 27:31: Sin 5, the Sin of the Lesser of Two Evils. Some things are just inherently bad. Luckily you guys are smart, so this strategy isn’t very successful. 29:24: Sin 6, the Sin of Fibbing. This one is illegal. So it's also not common, especially in the states, because we like to sue. 30:27: Bonus Sin 7, the Sin of Worshiping False Labels. Everything looks great from the packaging, but that's as deep as it gets. 32:17: Brownwashing, or Greenhushing. These strategies aren’t new, and consumers are already recognizing them. If they spot ‘greenwashing’ this can cause distrust in the brand. Have you ever questioned the motives behind a ‘kind’ act? This added layer of confusion doesn’t make finding environmentally conscious brands any easier. 39:32 Combating Greenwashing: We talk about how consumers can challenge greenwashing, and have a positive impact on the earth. Micro vs macro impact, which is really important to recognize if we ever want to make a difference. Buying new things is a net negative, so the best we can do is learn to be conscious consumers! Everyone has a small improvement they can make, and a small effort from a large group of people will go a long way. We are leaving you with an extremely helpful source to learn more - Greenwash Action Lab: www.greenwashaction.comRead the 2007 article on the sins of greenwashing: https://www.ul.com/insights/sins-greenwashingListen to the EcoWell Podcast for great information on sustainability: https://www.theecowell.com/podcast/wren-montgomeryVisit our website to read more about this episode and check out our blog post with sources.www.beautyxbeaker.comJoin us on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube!@beautyxbeaker@natbxb@sadiebxbContact us at info@beautyxbeaker.comSpecial thanks to Flip Twogood for our photos and Hailey Romero for our branding.

We have spent all month talking about smells, but how do perfumes even work? And what makes them all smell so different? In this week's episode we are explaining some perfume basics, like what is the difference between cologne and an eau de toilette? We are talking about fragrance ingredients, and the important roles that they play in finished perfumes. Plus, we are telling you what perfume bottles you are likely to find on each of our shelves, and the scent notes that are inside. Of course, since Natalie and Sadie don’t necessarily sniff nose-to-nose, we end with a reminder that fragrance is truly so personal. Welcome to Beauty by the Beaker, the podcast where Sciences Gets a Hot New Makeover! We're two cosmetic chemists who want to reveal what really goes into your favorite products, and we aren't afraid to bust some myths while doing it. Whether you’re a skincare enthusiast, a curious consumer, or just tired of being told coconut oil cures everything, you’re in the right place. Let's gossip about all things beauty together! Pull up a chair, your appointment's about to start.Perfumes Mentioned: Versace - Crystal Noir Carolina Herrera - Good Girl Supreme Yves Saint Laurent - Libre Intense Kayali - Vanilla 28 Versace - Yellow Diamond Dolce & Gabbana - Light Blue Maison Francis Kurkdjian Paris - Baccarat Rouge 540 Visit our website to read more about this episode and check out our blog post with sources.Join us on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube!@beautyxbeaker@natbxb@sadiebxbContact us at info@beautyxbeaker.comSpecial thanks to Flip Twogood for our photos and Hailey Romero for our branding.

Chances are, you probably have some sort of fragrance in your going out routine, whether its a scented lotion, body spray, deodorant, or perfume. For many of us, the way we smell is in some way tied to our identity, but this isn't new. Humans have been using fragrance oils and perfumes for basically as long as we have been around. Today we are diving into the weird history of perfume. From Egyptian head cones to Chanel no. 5 and Creed Aventus, we are learning how scent has shaped our society. Welcome to Beauty by the Beaker, the podcast where science meets your bathroom shelf. We're two cosmetic chemists who want to reveal what really goes into your favorite products - and we aren't afraid to bust some myths while doing it. Whether you’re a skincare enthusiast, a curious consumer, or just tired of being told coconut oil cures everything, you’re in the right place. Let's gossip about all things beauty together! Pull up a chair, your appointment's about to start.Visit our website to read more about this episode and check out our blog post with sources.Join us on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube!@beautyxbeaker@natbxb@sadiebxbContact us at info@beautyxbeaker.comSpecial thanks to Flip Twogood for our photos and Hailey Romero for our branding.

Happy last week of January and last week of surfactants. On this episode, we are talking about our favorite soapy selections! We are telling you all about our favorite cleansing products. Natalie tells you about her favorite high end shampoo, despite recently ranting that expensive shampoo is a waste of money. She also talks about a classic foaming hand wash, and what makes foaming products less moisturizing. Her last recommendation is a solid style product, and we discuss the difference between surfactants and soaps. Sadie tells you about a face wash that has been helpful for her acne prone skin, and they review the difference between drugs and cosmetics. She tells you about a cheaper shampoo option that she loves, and her favorite featured ingredient, Amodimethicone. Sadie's last product can be found throughout her house, so it can be enjoyed anytime hands need washing. Stick around to find out one product they think may have missed the mark. Welcome to Beauty by the Beaker, the podcast where science gets a hot new makeover! We're two cosmetic chemists who want to reveal what really goes into your favorite products - and we aren't afraid to bust some myths while doing it. Whether you’re a skincare enthusiast, a curious consumer, or just tired of being told coconut oil cures everything, you’re in the right place. Let's gossip about all things beauty together! Pull up a chair, your appointment's about to start.Products Mentioned: Amika - The Kure Strength Repair Shampoo PanOxyl - Acne Foaming Wash (4%) Bath and Body Works - Foaming Hand Soap Garnier Fructis - Sleek and Shine Shampoo Kitsch - Solid Body Wash OUAI - Hand Wash *None of these products are sponsoredVisit our website to read more about this episode and check out our blog post with sources.Join us on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube!@beautyxbeaker@natbxb@sadiebxbContact us at info@beautyxbeaker.comSpecial thanks to Flip Twogood for our photos and Hailey Romero for our branding.

We are back in the Science Salon, and we are ready to chat more about our favorite unifiers. This week we debrief from the chemistry lesson we had on the 4 types of surfactants. We are talking about color safe shampoo, and how sulfates got such a bad reputation. Then we are talking about a familiar grapefruit acne facewash, and different types of makeup removing methods. This one is all over the place, so try to follow along! Additional notes from todays episode: We mention Anionic Surfactants are petroleum derived (crude oil), but they can also be coconut/palm derived. This is a whole different ethics question. The Microbead-free waters act of 2015 - prohibited the use of plastic microbeads in the use of rinse off products. The deadline for the change was 2017. Products Mentioned in the Episode: Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash Pink Grapefruit Facial Cleanser ($8)Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towlettes ($8)Welcome to Beauty by the Beaker, the podcast where science gets a hot new makeover! We're two cosmetic chemists who want to reveal what really goes into your favorite products - and we aren't afraid to bust some myths while doing it. Whether you’re a skincare enthusiast, a curious consumer, or just tired of being told coconut oil cures everything, you’re in the right place. Let's gossip about all things beauty together! Pull up a chair, your appointment's about to start.Visit our website to read more about this episode and check out our blog post with sources.Join us on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube!@beautyxbeaker@natbxb@sadiebxbContact us at info@beautyxbeaker.comSpecial thanks to Flip Twogood for our photos and Hailey Romero for our branding.

In this week's episode, hosts Natalie and Sadie are catching up after a long break. They are reflecting on the past couple months of podcasting, and discussing what the next year holds for BXB and their personal ventures. Sadie talks more in depth about her company Strandprint, and the value of microscopic hair analysis. If you struggle with your hair, or just want to learn more, visit:https://www.strandprint.com/Natalie introduces her new cosmetic consulting company Atomic Beauty Science, which focuses on education and transparency at any stage of product development. See more at: https://www.atomicbeautyscience.com/Welcome to Beauty by the Beaker, the podcast where science gets a hot new makeover! We're two cosmetic chemists who want to reveal what really goes into your favorite products - and we aren't afraid to bust some myths while doing it. Whether you’re a skincare enthusiast, a curious consumer, or just tired of being told coconut oil cures everything, you’re in the right place. Let's gossip about all things beauty together! Pull up a chair, your appointment's about to start.Visit our website to read more about this episode.Join us on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube!@beautyxbeaker@natbxb@sadiebxbContact us at info@beautyxbeaker.comSpecial thanks to Flip Twogood for our photos and Hailey Romero for our branding.

Have you ever wondered why your skin and hair feel so much worse in the winter? Well then this episode is for you. This week, hosts Sadie and Natalie are talking all about winter self care routines. Learn about the different types of humidity, and how heating your house in the winter might be drying you out even more. Our skin and hair encounter multiple new challenges in the winter, and this week, the hosts are helping you be prepared. Winter isn’t personally out to get you, even if it might feel like it. Welcome to Beauty by the Beaker, the podcast where science meets your bathroom shelf. We're two cosmetic chemists who want to reveal what really goes into your favorite products - and we aren't afraid to bust some myths while doing it. Whether you’re a skincare enthusiast, a curious consumer, or just tired of being told coconut oil cures everything, you’re in the right place. Let's gossip about all things beauty together! Pull up a chair, your appointment's about to start.Hair Hydration Video:www.youtube.com/watch?v=khNaXP11zc8Visit our website to read more about this episode and check out our blog post with sources.Join us on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube!@beautyxbeaker@natbxb@sadiebxbContact us at info@beautyxbeaker.comSpecial thanks to Flip Twogood for our photos and Hailey Romero for our branding.

In this episode of Beauty by the Beaker, hosts Sadie and Natalie are diving into the science of haircare. They discuss identifying your hair type, and the importance that plays on an ideal haircare routine. This week they answer questions about the effectiveness of heat protectants for styling, and rosemary oil for hair growth. Stick around for a discussion on salon ‘grade’ versus drugstore haircare products, and a reminder of the importance of personal preference in hair care routines. Welcome to Beauty by the Beaker, the podcast where science meets your bathroom shelf. We're two cosmetic chemists who want to reveal what really goes into your favorite products - and we aren't afraid to bust some myths while doing it. Whether you’re a skincare enthusiast, a curious consumer, or just tired of being told coconut oil cures everything, you’re in the right place. Let's gossip about all things beauty together! Pull up a chair, your appointment's about to start.Visit our website to read more about this episode and check out our blog post with sources.Join us on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube!@beautyxbeaker@natbxb@sadiebxbContact us at info@beautyxbeaker.comSpecial thanks to Flip Twogood for our photos and Hailey Romero for our branding.