PODCAST · arts
Chemist Confessions
by Chemist Confessions Inc.
Skincare chemists Gloria & Victoria’s weekly conversation on all things skincare science.The podcast covers notable skincare news, decoding outrageous claims, demystifying the overwhelming product landscapes, and answering your burning skincare questions. Tune in if you might need help building a skincare routine, finding a serum that’ll ACTUALLY deliver, or just want to have a few laughs on some of the crazy things you see in skincare.
Episodes
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#191) Decoding Peptides with DECIEM's Rita Silva: What Does the Science Say?
In this special episode, we're joined by Rita Silva, Acting Director of Scientific Communications at DECIEM, for a deep dive into the science behind The Ordinary's popular peptide serums. From Multi-Peptide and Matrixyl to Argireline and the latest plant-derived growth factors, we're getting into...
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#190) Chemists Test 7 CE Ferulic Dupes vs. the Original
PLEASE NOTE: In this episode, the original Skinceuticals CE Ferulic formula with only 15% ascorbic acid, 1% tocopherol, and 0.5% ferulic acid was tested for this episode. We dive into part two of our vitamin C series by putting popular C E Ferulic dupes to the test. Before revealing our...
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#189) Is the updated CE Ferulic worth the $$$$?
We dive into a science-heavy breakdown of vitamin C formulations, focusing on the recent updates to the gold-standard C E Ferulic serum. We explore the history of L-ascorbic acid efficacy studies dating back to the 1990s by Dr. Pinnell’s lab, highlighting the classic UV-induced erythema protocol...
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#188) We sat down with founder of Soko Glam: Charlotte Cho!
Check out Soko Glam: Check out our products: https://sokoglam.com/collections/chemist-confessions?_pos=1&_psq=chemist+confessions&_psid=080163648&_ss=e In celebrating our arrival on Soko Glam, we sat down with founder Charlotte Cho to dive deep into the real science, mechanics, and formulation...
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#187) Decoding Dr. Reju-All's PDRN & Copper Peptide #ad
#sponsored We’re taking a deep dive into the science behind K-Beauty brand Dr. Reju-All! In this sponsored episode, we've partnered with Dr. Reju-All, to share some of their testing behind the products: the Advanced PDRN Rejuvenating Cream and their latest launch, the Advanced PDRN Copper Peptide...
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#186) 5 Copper Peptide Serums Tested
We’re cutting through the marketing fluff to decode five popular copper peptide serums! In this episode, we analyze the formulas, active ingredient combinations, and clinical data behind products from the Remedy, COSRX, Dr. Reju-All, The Ordinary, and Peach & Lily. We break down what these serums...
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#185) Are Copper Peptides (GHK-Cu) OVERRATED?
🧪 Is GHK-Cu Overrated? The Science of Copper Peptides Explained Are Copper Peptides (GHK-Cu) actual anti-aging powerhouses, or just smart marketing hype? In this video, we dive deep into the 50-year scientific history of GHK-Cu, breaking down the exact biological pathways behind collagen and...
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#184) Are You Applying Enough Sunscreen correctly?
Description: We are tackling our top 10 sunscreen takeaways after four straight years of testing dozens of formulas in our 3430 series! From figuring out how much SPF you actually need to apply (and why we rating-split over the infamous Rich Area Hold Cream), we get into all the messy details. We...
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#183) Testing 30 sunscreens in 30 days: US CHEMICAL SUNCREENS | Chemist Confessions Podcast
WE ARE BACK! Our 30 for 30 sunscreen challenge continues by diving into the wild world of US chemical sunscreens! In this episode, we break down 13 different formulas—categorized by price point from budget-friendly drugstore finds to eye-watering luxury formulas. TIMESTAMPS: 00:31 | US Chemical...
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#182) PART 2! 30 SUNSCREENS IN 30 DAYS! - EU and Asia
We are wrapping up the next leg of our #30for30 sunscreen challenge testing roundup! In this episode, we dive deep into the world of international sunscreens, putting five popular EU formulas and eight Asian sunscreens to the test. Plus, don't miss a hilarious, science-backed detour into the...
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#181) WE TESTED 30 SUNSCREENS IN 30 DAYS! P1 - US Sunscreen
The #30for30 Sunscreen Challenge is back, and we are officially kicking off our deep dive! In this episode, we’re breaking down the US mineral sunscreens we put to the test. From "accidental" foundations and heavy-duty rub-ins to luxury formulas that claim to erase wrinkles, we’re giving you the...
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#180) What to look for in a sunscreen?
Sunscreen database: https://chemistconfessions.com/sunscreen Shop other products tested on the CC podcast here: https://shopmy.us/collections/4698294 Shop more of my favorite products here: https://shopmy.us/chemistconfessions Instead of getting bogged down by marketing fluff, we dive deep into…
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#179) EWG & Yuka App Debunked!
Sunscreen database: https://chemistconfessions.com/sunscreen Shop other products tested on the CC podcast here: https://shopmy.us/collections/4698294 Shop more of my favorite products here: https://shopmy.us/chemistconfessions We are deep in sunscreen season, but unfortunately, it is also...
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#178) 5 More Tinted SPFs Tested in 2026
Sunscreen database: https://chemistconfessions.com/sunscreen Shop other products tested on the CC podcast here: https://shopmy.us/collections/4698294 Shop more of my favorite products here: https://shopmy.us/chemistconfessions We are starting of this series with tinted sunscreens. Navigating this...
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#177) We must talk about IRON OXIDES!
We are officially diving into the sunscreen segment to break down a burning, highly technical question for anyone tackling stubborn dark spots: is iron oxide a non-negotiable must-have for your hyperpigmentation routine? Sunscreen database: https://chemistconfessions.com/sunscreen Shop other...
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#176) We tested these lineup of viral PDRN products!
We are reviewing five popular K-Beauty products to see if they actually live up to the hype. We break down the science behind different PDRN sources, explore the "50 peptides" marketing claims, and analyze clinical data to separate realistic skin improvements from clever lighting tricks. You will...
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#175) Reviewing 2 Exosome Products!
We take an objective look at two polar opposite formulas—a $20 "junior" product and a $250 luxury serum—to see if the high science matches the high price tag. We break down the mysteries of sourcing, discuss why your 1% active might not be what it seems, and share our honest (and sometimes…
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#174) PDRN Skincare: Longevity Cure or Just Hype?
Chemist Confessions Minis! https://chemistconfessions.com/shop/kits&minis We're pickup where we left off with another science update episode! Today, we're diving into another buzzy ingredient in the "longevity" space: PDRN. In this episode, we go beyond the "salmon sperm" headlines to investigate...
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#173) How About Exosomes in Skincare Now? (A 2026 Update)
Exosome is that $500 buzzword that's not going anywhere anytime soon. The claims have only gotten broader from healing, skin regeneration, eczema, anti-aging, to even alopecia. In this episode, we provide an update on any new data since our last deep dive last year. We discuss how these tiny…
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#172) THEY CLAIM THIS WILL WORK! Reviewing Retinal products!
In this episode, we are diving deep into the retinal (retinaldehyde) landscape to see how current market offerings stack up. Following our technical breakdown of retinol versus retinal, we shift our focus to real-world testing of popular formulations from Krave Beauty, Prequel, Celimax, and…
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#171) We have to talk about this again: RETINOL VS RETINAL
We are diving back into the "rumor mill" of the retinoid world! Is Retinal actually better than Retinol, or is it just better marketing? In this episode, we revisit the Retinol vs. Retinal debate with new 2026 data. We break down what the evidence says about the retinoid conversion pathway into...
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#170) WE ARE ENDING THIS! Hyperpigmentation Finale!
We are taking a break from hyperpigmentation actives! In this finale, we tie together months of research to help you build the ultimate hyperpigmentation skincare routine. We rank the actives from our last 10 episodes—including Hydroquinone, Azelaic acid, Arbutin, Glutathione, Thiamodol…
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#169) Reviewing Resorcinol stuff!
CHECK OUT DOUBLE PLAY!: https://chemistconfessions.com/products/double-play-retinol-face-eye-treatment We follow up our deep dive into resorcinols by featuring five specific products that highlight these key ingredients for hyperpigmentation! Do We Absorb Sunscreen Filters into Our Bloodstreams?...
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#168) Resorcinol Part 2!
CHECK OUT DOUBLE PLAY!: https://chemistconfessions.com/products/double-play-retinol-face-eye-treatment We are wrapping up our hyperpigmentation series by diving into the science of resorcinol and its various derivatives. We explore the history of this "ancient" molecule, its uses in treatments…
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#167) Resorcinol! (But really its cousins)
CHECK OUT DOUBLE PLAY!: https://chemistconfessions.com/products/double-play-retinol-face-eye-treatment We are wrapping up our hyperpigmentation series by diving into the science of resorcinol and its various derivatives. We explore the history of this "ancient" molecule, its uses in treatments…
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#166) Reviewing 5 Glutathione Products!
We are back for a follow-up to our glutathione deep dive! We review five specific glutathione-heavy products, four from the K-beauty world and one popular Amazon find, to see if they truly deliver on their antioxidant and brightening claims. 00:00 | Intro: Hashtags & antioxidant claims 00:24 |...
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#165: We are finally talking about this ingredient: GLUTATHIONE!
WE HEARD YOU! We explore the science behind one of the most requested and hyped ingredients skincare sector: glutathione. We break down what this "master antioxidant" actually is. 01:25 | What is Glutathione? Breaking down the tri-peptide 01:54 | Why is it called the "Master Antioxidant"? 02:43 |...
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#164) The Drugstore Level Alpha Arbutin Landscape
We explore the science of skincare as we review five affordable, drugstore-priced arbutin products. In this episode, we break down everything from texture and clinical claims and ingredient lists of popular brands to help you find the right formula for your skin. TIMESTAMPS: 01:27 | Texture...
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#163 ) The Science of Arbutin: Does It Actually Clear Dark Spots?
We are diving deep into the science of skincare to explore the role of Arbutin in treating hyperpigmentation. In this human conversation, we break down what exactly Arbutin is, analyze the existing data on its efficacy, and provide a comprehensive guide on what you should consider when shopping…
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#162 ) Testing 3 Popular K-Beauty Azelaic Acid Serums
In this episode, we take a deep dive into the world of K-beauty azelaic acid products. We explore the science behind three popular contenders—Anua, Purito, and medicube—while decoding their ingredient lists, analyzing clinical testing data, and discussing the tricky chemistry of azelaic acid...
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@161) Is Azelaic Acid Better Than Hydroquinone?
This week, we're starting our series on hyperpigmentation answering one of the most common questions many of us will encounter which is, "Is azelaic acid better than hydroquinone for my hyperpigmentation 00:00 | Introduction: 2026 Skincare Kickoff 03:45 | Investigating the PNAS Combination Study...
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#160) We tested 103 products in 2025
The Chemist Confessions podcast year-end review is here! We blitz through the 103 skincare products tested in 2025! We reveal our favorite and least favorite categories, discuss surprising finds like Hypochlorite Acid, and give our honest takes on individual products, including the Banana Boat...
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#159) Occlusive Balms Head-to-Head! | Chemist Confessions Podcast
We did a product head-to-head comparing occlusive balms, all with a petrolatum base! Following our beef tallow deep dive, we are breaking down the texture, transfer, price, and complex chemist notes of Vaseline, Aquaphor, CeraVe, Prequel, and our own Bon Voyage. Which formula is best for…
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#158) Why is BEEF TALLOW in skincare?
This week, we tackle one of the most requested ingredients: Beef Tallow in skincare. We break down the science, compare its characteristics to other popular ingredients like shea butter, and look at the actual topical studies (or lack thereof). 00:00 | What Is Beef Tallow and Why Is It in…
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#157) Ceramides in products! | Chemist Confessions Podcast
We dive deep into the complicated science of ceramides (NP, AP, EOP) in your barrier creams, explaining the complex nomenclature and how different ceramide types function in the skin. We compare the ceramide blends found in 10 popular moisturizers and reveal the winning factors to look for when...
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#156) EAST VS WEST! 10 Barrier Creams Reviewed & Ranked!
We review 10 popular East and West barrier creams from Aestura, Dr. Jart, Dieux, Skinceuticals, La Roche Posay, and more. We break down everything from texture and finish for different skin types to occlusives like petrolatum and dimethicone, humectants like glycerin, and clinical claims. We also...
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#155) Sulfur Skincare Product Review | Chemist Confessions Podcast
We put three 10% OTC sulfur products to the test! Kate Somerville, the Ordinary, Vichy, and De La Cruz Lab have four completely different takes on sulfur. The chemists discuss which product is the best to use as an acne spot treat! Products Discussed this 2025 Podcast Season *a small portion of...
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#154) AD | A Deep Dive Into VT’s Reedle Skincare!
In paid partnership with VT! VT has given us insider access to the R&D behind their viral Reedle Skincare. In thanks to our community’s curiosity, they’ve decided to share the research behind their reedles, what makes them special, and all the testing they’ve done behind this product line. The...
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#153) The Science Behind Sulfur for Acne & Skincare
We take a deep dive into the science behind Sulfur, a very old and historically prevalent ingredient for acne. We discuss its nonmetal clay origins and characteristic scent, often described as rotten eggs , or like "if a clay farted". The episode covers its classification as an OTC acne…
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#152) MY SKIN IS ANGRY! Now what?
Everyone at some point in their lives will experience skin irritation. From overeager retinoid use to skin deciding to do a complete 180° just because. When skin is angry, troubleshooting your routine can start to feel stressful and overwhelming . The chemists review why skin reacts the way it…
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#151) Hypochlorous Acid Sprays Tested: Tower 28, Prequel & Magic Molecule Review!
We put popular hypochlorous acid sprays to the test! Tower 28, Prequel, and Magic Molecule. Do they live up to the hype for acne, redness, and barrier support? Here’s the chemists’ breakdown. Products Discussed this 2025 Podcast Season *a small portion of your purchase through these links goes to...
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#150) Hypochlorous Acid Explained | Chemist Confessions Podcast
Hypochlorous acid is the trending skincare ingredient for acne, eczema, and irritated skin...... but does it really work? Products Discussed this 2025 Podcast Season a small portion of your purchase through these links goes to feeding a chemist. https://shopmy.us/collections/1280514
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#149) THD Products Texture Discussion | Chemist Confessions Podcast
From $20 drugstore finds to $185 luxury formulas, We break down Vitamin C skincare products, textures, and ingredient lists to help you choose what really works for hyperpigmentation, hydration, and beyond. Products Discussed this 2025 Podcast Season *a small portion of your purchase through…
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#148) Is THD Ascorbate a worthy Vitamin C derivative?
Is tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate (aka. THD ascorbate) a more stable, more exciting form of vitamin C, or just another quirky chemical cousin? We unpack the science, separate facts from marketing fluff, and reveal what this ingredient really does for your skin. Products Discussed this 2025 Podcast...
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#147) Shopping for Sunscreens in 2025! | Chemist Confessions Podcast
It’s the last sunscreen episode of 2025 (we promise!). The chemists have been mulling over all of the recent sunscreen drama. Ultimately, they’ve decided that the most constructive way to address everyone’s concerns is to walk everyone through how to properly shop for sunscreens in 2025. In this...
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#146) 100 Days of Double Cleansing
Victoria recently decided to commit to 100 days of double cleansing on her oily, acne-prone skin. In those 100 days, she tests 10 cleansing oils and 10 gel cleansers. They discuss their likes, dislikes, and surprise discoveries amongst these formulas. Ultimately, the chemists’ goal in this...
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#145) 5 Ethyl Ascorbic Acid Products Compared
In this episode, we put five popular vitamin C serums featuring 3-o-ethyl ascorbic acid to the test: Beauty of Joseon Light on Serum, Elf C+E+Feruic Acid Serum, Olay Vitamin C Brightening Serum, Innisfree Green Tean Enzyme Vitamin C, and Numbuz:n 5+. This is a wild category of products. Unlike…
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#144) Is 3-o-ethyl ascorbic acid a worthy vitamin C derivative
Is 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid truly a gentler, more stable form of vitamin C, or just a shiny chemical cousin? We unpack the science, separate facts from marketing fluff, and reveal what this ingredient really does for your skin. Products Discussed this 2025 Podcast Season a small portion of your...
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#143) 30 Sunscreens in 30 Days 2025 Pt.2!
In this extended 30 for 30 finale, we review 30 chemical sunscreens across drugstore, mid-tier, international, and luxury categories. breaking down textures, performance, pilling, greasy finishes, and even surprise standouts like Banana Boat Light as Air. Perfect for anyone struggling to find…
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#142) 30 for 30 Sunscreen Challenge 2025 Pt.1 - Minerals
We’re back for our third year of the 30 for 30 sunscreen challenge where we test 30 sunscreens in 30 days. In part 1, we discuss the mineral sunscreens. This category is divided into mineral fluids and mineral lotions. We rate them from worst, meh, noteworthy, and best based on their texture and...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Skincare chemists Gloria & Victoria’s weekly conversation on all things skincare science.The podcast covers notable skincare news, decoding outrageous claims, demystifying the overwhelming product landscapes, and answering your burning skincare questions. Tune in if you might need help building a skincare routine, finding a serum that’ll ACTUALLY deliver, or just want to have a few laughs on some of the crazy things you see in skincare.
HOSTED BY
Chemist Confessions Inc.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Chemist Confessions have?
Chemist Confessions currently has 100 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Chemist Confessions about?
Skincare chemists Gloria & Victoria’s weekly conversation on all things skincare science.The podcast covers notable skincare news, decoding outrageous claims, demystifying the overwhelming product landscapes, and answering your burning skincare questions. Tune in if you might need help building a...
How often does Chemist Confessions release new episodes?
Chemist Confessions has 100 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to Chemist Confessions?
You can listen to Chemist Confessions 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 Chemist Confessions?
Chemist Confessions is created and hosted by Chemist Confessions Inc..
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