PODCAST · science
Beauty by the Beaker
by Beauty by the Beaker
Welcome to Beauty by the Beaker, a 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 babe, your appointment's about to start.
Episodes
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$400 Serum? Zombie Cell Skincare Is The Spooky New Trend - EP55
Have you heard of Zombie Cells? Senescent cells are real, but the skincare claims built around them are often way more terrifying than the science supports. This week in the Science Salon, Sadie and Nat unpack the spooky truth behind these dormant skin cells. The scariest thing might be all the…
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Beauty Lies Have SCARY Consequences - EP54
We are kicking off Spooky Season the scariest way we know how! Beauty misinformation is more than annoying, it shapes what people buy, believe, and do with their skin. In this episode, Sadie and Nat break down some of the most persistent beauty myths, from chemical sunscreen fears and “reef-safe”...
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Itchy, Flaky, and Irritated Scalp? Don't Make It Worse - EP53
This week is all about scalp health. Your itchy, flaky scalp might not be dandruff, and using the wrong treatment could make it worse. In this episode of Beauty by the Beaker, cosmetic chemists Sadie and Natalie explain the difference between dry scalp, dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, and...
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How Important is pH in Cosmetics? A Simple Explanation of Hydrogens Power - EP 52
Every once in a while we see pH marketed on labels, but most people have no idea what it actually means - and that confusion is exactly why it has the opportunity to become such a powerful buzzword. If you’ve ever wondered whether “pH balanced” skincare or hair care is worth paying more for, this...
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3 Misconceptions You Still Have About Curly Hair - EP 51
When it comes to curls there is a lot of misinformation, and this week we are setting the record straight. Natalie and Sadie, cosmetic formulation chemists are covering the 3 main misconceptions when it comes to curly hair, and explaining why you might not be treating your hair right. We break…
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Controversial Beauty Rumors Usually Need More Context - EP50
It’s the first official episode of season 2, and we are going to be trying something a little bit different. Mostly because we want to talk about beauty science you are actually interested in, but also because our lives have been a bit crazy, and we needed another week of chatting to give us more...
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The Unexpected World of Beauty Science Podcasting - EP 49
Happy Birthday BXB!!! This week we are celebrating 1 year of the podcast by reflecting on some of the epic highs and lows of the past, and setting some new expectations for the future. We discuss the unexpected struggles of co-hosting a beauty science podcast, and the desire to stop the spread of...
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Is Your Hair Safe From The Sun? UV Might Not Be The Problem - EP 48
Summer isn’t over yet! We have stressed the importance of sunscreen, but how does the sun affect your hair? In this episode we are breaking down the science of UV damage, visible light, melanin, and why some hair fades or weakens faster in the sun. Have you ever wondered if your hair needs...
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Top 10 Cosmetics Under $30, Nothing Sponsored! - EP 47
It’s about time we give you another peak into our vanity shelves! This week we are spilling the details on our favorite skin and hair care products under $30 (well almost, we need to make one exception for Sadie). As cosmetic formulation chemists we have tried a lot of different products, and are...
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Fear Is Keeping You From Perfect Hair! - EP46
Are you ready for perfect hair? Good, because this episode is your scientifically proven guide to perfect hair! .. well… sort of. As it turns out, hair isn’t super vital, and for that reason, there hasn’t been a very strong push for rigorous scientific evaluation. But today we have the closest...
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Eyelash Serum or Glaucoma Treatment? The Risk and Reward of Prostaglandin Analogs! - EP 45
What ingredients are in your lash serum? And is it really worth the risk? Long, luscious lashes are a beauty goal for many, but do you really know what's happening when you use those popular eyelash serums? This week we are diving into an unlikely lash lengthener that was discovered while…
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Exosomes Work! What About In Skincare? The Truth Behind 'Regenerative' Cosmetics - EP44
Exosomes are rapidly becoming the hottest buzzword in skincare, but what do we really know about their power? Are they the regenerative breakthrough they're made out to be, or simply a clever marketing tactic? If you're curious about whether products claiming to harness these tiny cellular...
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K-Beauty Takeover! The History, Hype, and the Mythical 10-Step Skincare Routine - EP 43
Welcome back to the Science Salon! You might claim to be a K-beauty fan, but did you know that it’s a result of Korea’s strategic comeback after the 1997 Asian financial crisis? And was Missha the first Ordinary when it comes to simple and effective, no-frills skincare? This week is part 2 of our…
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K-Beauty is Ancient History | Korean Skincare Before Hallyu - EP42
You can’t be a skincare fan and not know about K-Beauty. Today we are talking about the history behind Korea’s astonishing rise to global beauty powerhouse. It’s more than just cosmetic, it’s a story of resilience, strategy, and innovation. Most Americans overlook Korea’s deep history, but a...
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Can Skincare Products Cure Weight Loss Side Effects? - EP41
We bet you have heard of Ozempic, but did you know it was first discovered in Gila Monster venom? This week we are talking about weight loss drugs, and the shocking side effects they can cause. If you're curious about the science, the beauty industry's profit-driven response, and why these...
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Why Does Isotretinoin Work SO WELL? History and Controversy Behind Accutane - EP 40
This week we are diving deep into Accutane, also known as isotretinoin. This is one of the most talked about acne treatments in dermatology. If you’ve ever wondered how Accutane works, why skin can get worse before it gets better, what the purge phase feels like, or whether Accutane is actually...
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EVERYTHING You Need To Know Before Using Bemotrizinol | The HOTTEST New Sunscreen Active! - EP 39
EMERGENCY SUNSCREEN UPDATE! The FDA just approved the first UV filter in over 20 years! Join us for breaking news in US sunscreens. This ingredient promises to be the safest and most effective filter the United States Market has ever seen, but what does that actually mean as a consumer? This week...
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Is Looksmaxxing The Answer To A Bigger Problem? - EP 38
0:00 - Introduction to Looksmaxxing Discussion on the concept and its societal implications. 15:18 - A Never Ending Pursuit For Perfection How looksmaxxing has roots in historical beauty practices. 19:06 - Modern Trends and Influences The role of social media and influencers in popularizing...
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Can Makeup Be Good For Your Skin? BB Creams, K-Beauty and More! EP 37
Is there a line between makeup and skincare? If there is, it's extremely blurry, and understanding the science behind it can change the way you approach your beauty routine. In this eye-opening episode, cosmetic chemists Sadie and Natalie peel back the layers of what truly goes into your favorite...
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The Complex World of Color Cosmetics: Outsourcing Secrets Behind Your Favorite Skincare - EP 36
We are unlocking the secret differences between makeup and skincare formulations and discover why most companies excel in one, but not both. Cosmetic chemists Sadie and Natalie pull back the curtain on how the beauty industry structures its product development, from the complex web of outsourcing...
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Chemists Answer YOUR Beauty Questions! EP35
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…
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Avoid This Cosmetic Ingredient If You Are Going to the Airport - EP 34
Are you brushing your teeth with explosives? No, not really, but your cosmetics could still set off alarms going through TSA, and not just because they are bigger than 3.4oz. In this episode we are diving into a cosmetic ingredient that might help with tooth sensitivity, but it might also get you...
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EP 33 - How to REALLY find Acne Safe Skincare.
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…
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Non-Comedogenic? A 50 Year Old Rabbit Study is Influencing Your Skincare Choices - EP 32
Most people believe certain ingredients or products cause acne, but the truth is far more complex, and surprisingly outdated. This week we are diving into the real science behind the popular non-comedogenic claim that’s been shaping skincare for over 50 years. This episode unpacks the origins of...
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EP 31 - Tretinoin, Adapalene and Retinol. Why FDA Approval Isn't Always Better.
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…
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EP 30 - Which Retinoid Is Right For You? The Science of Vitamin A in Skincare
Retinoids, the skincare ingredient powerhouse that everyone talks about but few truly understand. Whether you're battling acne, fine lines, or just trying to maintain youthful skin, this week we are revealing the science-backed secrets behind how retinoids work and how to incorporate them safely...
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There’s Something Fishy About PDRN - The Truth About Salmon Sperm in Skincare - EP 29
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...
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Our Reale Reaction to Alix Earle's New Skincare Line As Cosmetic Chemists
We are two cosmetic chemists, and in this mini episode we are chatting all about one particular TikTok it-girl, and her highly anticipated new skincare line. Of course we are going to be addressing all the controversy. There is at least one thing that Sadie, Natalie, and Alix all have in common,...
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EP 28 - Synthetic Colors - Do They Give You Cancer Or ADHD?
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…
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What Happened To Burt's Bees? The Accidental Success Story - Mini Episode
Is the guy in the logo real? In our first solo mini episode, we are going to deep dive into the story behind the brand, Burt's Bees. Burt Shavitz wasn't looking for fame, so how did he go from a self described loner to arguably the most famous bee keeper in the world? It started when a 60s hippie...
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EP 27 - The 7 Sins of Greenwashing! How To Be A Conscious Personal Care Consumer
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...
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EP 26 - Is Gold The Secret To Anti-Aging? Humans Love It, Science Explains Why.
Welcome back to another Wednesday! This week we are giggling about gold. This beautiful metal has been popular throughout all of history, but why is that? In this episode we are explaining the science behind this unique material. Its variety of uses range from traditional medicine to jewelry, but...
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EP 25 - Why Are Perfumes So Complex? The Science Behind Your Favorite Fragrances
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…
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EP 24 - Some Animals Use Pheromones to Find a Lover. Do Humans?
This week we are back in the Salon to talk about a special type of chemical that MIGHT help you find your Valentine, Pheromones! Which as you may have guessed, are linked to some debatable science. We are discussing some well known examples of animals who use pheromones, and then talking about…
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EP 23 - Have People Always Cared About The Way They Smell? The Weird History of Perfume.
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...
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EP 22 - What's That Smell? Is it Disrupting My Hormones?
Welcome back! This week is a fragrance overview to get you ready for some stinky subjects! This week, hosts Sadie and Natalie are talking about fragrances in cosmetics! Sadie tells you what a fragrance is, how we smell them, and some of your burning questions regarding fragrance safety. Learn…
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EP 21 - Sadie Reveals One Product She WON'T be Buying Again
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...
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EP 20 - Are Sulfates Natural? Washing Away Myths About Cleansers
Forget everything you thought you knew about surfactants, this week we are talking about the most common cleansing myths. We answer - if my cleanser is burning, does that mean it's working? Does your shampoo open and close your hair cuticle? Do rinse off products even matter? Spoiler, they do.…
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EP 19 - Face Wash, Micellar Water, and Makeup Wipes - Are They Really That Different?
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…
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EP 18 - Not Sulfate Free? Not a Problem! Surfactant Chemistry Will Teach You Why.
Its Wednesday again! Welcome back to the Science Salon for another episode of Beauty by the Beaker. This week hosts Natalie and Sadie are breaking down what it means to be a surfactant, or rather, a Surface Active Agent. They review surface tension, and the difference between water and oil, and...
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EP 17 - The End Of the Birth Year of Beauty By The Beaker Podcast
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...
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EP 16 - Which Cosmetics Do We Think Should Be Under The Tree?
Merry Christmas Eve, everyone! Today hosts Sadie and Natalie are finally talking in depth about some specific products. First, we’re discussing products we already love, purchase, and would consider gifting to someone this holiday. After that we talking about cosmetics we’ve had our eye on, that…
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EP 15 - Why does my skin get so dry in the winter? Tips for winter skin and hair care.
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...
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EP 14 - Emulsions Are Everywhere! Learn What They Are, and Why We Love Them!
Hosts Natalie and Sadie are giving you and introduction to Emulsions. This week they are defining polarity, and explaining why oil and water don't mix. They tell you all about how emulsifiers work, the formation of micelles, and how spheres are the laziest shape. If you have ever been curious…
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EP 13 - Is Your Haircare Routine Weighing You Down?
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…
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EP 12 - How to Face Cosmetic Marketing with Confidence this Holiday Season
Natalie and Sadie are thankful for you! In this weeks episode the hosts are getting you ready to buy beauty products this holiday season. With all the flashy advertising, it can be hard to know what to believe, and what products are going to work best for you. Tune in if you want to know the…
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EP 11 - Is Petroleum Natural? It Might Depend on Who You Ask.
Welcome back to another episode, and the first of many on Natural vs. Synthetic cosmetic ingredients. This week, we’re talking all about what “natural” actually means (spoiler: the FDA doesn’t even know). We discuss why petroleum might be more natural than you think, and why nature — beautiful as...
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EP 10 - Your Acne Isn't Your Fault! The Science Behind Clear Skin
In this week's episode, hosts Sadie and Natalie are diving deep into the science of acne — what it is, why it happens, and how to treat it. This episode explores all the factors that contribute to breakouts and what makes acne so complex. We’ll cover the different types of acne, lasting effects...
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EP 9 - BxB Spooktacular Q&A!
In this weeks episode, hosts Sadie and Natalie are answering your burning questions, while participating in a Halloween activity, painting pumpkins! We cover our most coveted products, our stance on clean beauty and cosmetic ingredient websites, and how we recommend getting into the industry. We...
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EP 8 - Intro to Potions Class
Welcome back! This week hosts Natalie and Sadie are back in the classroom, and they are ready to teach you everything you need to know before you start mixing! In todays episode, Natalie is going to give you the first 4 lesson of Potions Class. This course is designed help keep you safe from...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Welcome to Beauty by the Beaker, a 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 babe, your appointment's about to start.
HOSTED BY
Beauty by the Beaker
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Beauty by the Beaker have?
Beauty by the Beaker currently has 59 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Beauty by the Beaker about?
Welcome to Beauty by the Beaker, a 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...
How often does Beauty by the Beaker release new episodes?
Beauty by the Beaker has 59 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to Beauty by the Beaker?
You can listen to Beauty by the Beaker on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Beauty by the Beaker?
Beauty by the Beaker is created and hosted by Beauty by the Beaker.
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