Tina Chen Craig shares the backstory of her skincare line, U Beauty, and explains how she went from author of the wildly popular blog Bag Snob to fashion influencer to beauty entrepreneur. Plus, Tina shares the secrets to great skin, the makeup she can't live without, and the five fashion pieces everybody should have in their wardrobes. This episode features a new introduction, but the interview previously aired in January, 2020. We'll be back next week with all new episodes! -- For links and sp...
Aug 10, 2021•31 min•Ep. 326
Hairstylist Jimmy Paul takes us on a journey, starting in the small steel mill town outside of Pittsburgh where he dreamed big and landing in New York City, where he made his name as one of the fashion industry’s most in-demand talents. His tale is a true New York story: He talks about his time at the The Pyramid Club, with nightlife legends like Ethyl Eichelberger, Agosto Machado, and Lady Bunny; getting his start at Oribe; Marc Jacobs’ legendary 1992 grunge collection for Perry Ellis; his firs...
Aug 05, 2021•57 min•Ep. 325
We share our honest review of Rihanna’s new Fenty eau de parfum and dig into other happenings in the beauty world: the controversial Olympics ban of Soul Cap, a line of swim caps for thick, curly hair; Kate Somerville’s new philanthropic partnership; L’Oréal’s interesting patent application for a skin-diagnosis system; and more. Plus, a listener tells us about a new shade of blue pigment that was recently discovered and Jess opens up about how parenthood has affected her beauty routine, for bett...
Aug 03, 2021•37 min•Ep. 324
Why has beauty become so important to our society? Is looks-based discrimination, or lookism, as bad as sexism or racism? Why do beauty and wellness companies use moral language (“Be your best self!”) to sell products? These are just a few of the big questions that Heather Widdows, PhD, a professor of philosophy at the University of Birmingham, answers in this fascinating interview that will make you rethink the way you talk about (and judge) other people's looks and reconsider how you respond w...
Jul 29, 2021•51 min•Ep. 323
Jenn got a semi-permanent tattoo that’s supposed to fade in about a year. She takes you into the tattoo shop to share what the process was like, and then explains the science behind Ephemeral Tattoo’s proprietary ink. Plus, Intern Val (aka Fat Mascara’s Southern Correspondent) shares new research on Gen-Z beauty habits, including a firsthand analysis of the trends, products, and brands that speak to her generation. -- For links, products, and sponsors mentioned in this episode: fatmascara.com/bl...
Jul 27, 2021•37 min•Ep. 322
If a product is preservative-free, or clinically tested, or medical grade, or pH-balanced…what does that even mean? Dermatologist Ranella Hirsch, MD, cuts through the hype and explains how skincare products are marketed and sold so you can figure out what’s worth your money. -- For links, products, and sponsors mentioned in this episode: fatmascara.com/blog ; To shop the products: myshlf.us/fatmascara ; Our private Facebook Group: Fat Mascara Raising a Wand ; Instagram: @fatmascara , @jessicamat...
Jul 22, 2021•59 min•Ep. 321
What’s going on with sunscreen this week? We’ll explain why two brands issued recalls and bring you up to speed on the benzene controversy, then we chat about other fun beauty things: NuFace’s new serums (do you need them to make your device work better?); a petrol-scented perfume; how the Western diet causes skin inflammation (and how to reverse it); and more. After the news, it’s time to relax: Jess shares her experience with the Sensory 7 Crystal Chakra Bed and Energy Bath at Modrn Sanctuary....
Jul 20, 2021•35 min•Ep. 320
Trichologist Bridgette Hill explains her holistic approach to hair health, which takes into account ingredient allergies, medications, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, hormonal issues, and so much more. If you're dealing with (or want to prevent!) hair issues like hair loss, thinning, bald patches, flakes, oiliness, dryness, or dullness, then this interview is a must listen. -- For links, products, and sponsors mentioned in this episode: fatmascara.com/blog ; To shop the products: myshlf.us/fat...
Jul 15, 2021•53 min•Ep. 319
We take a closer look at the haircut that’s everywhere this summer and chat about its origins, what makes a haircut go viral, and whether or not it’s safe to call the wolf cut “Gen Z’s answer to the mullet.” Before that, there’s lots of beauty news to discuss: details on the new Glossier retail locations; the temporary shutdown of KKW Beauty; Tracee Ellis Ross’s docuseries, The Hair Tales ; NYC Cosmetics sponsoring e-gamers; and more. Plus: A new study shows how quickly hair can go gray due to s...
Jul 13, 2021•37 min•Ep. 318
Actress Kate Hudson talks about her strategies for overcoming fear and negativity and shares what she eats when she’s preparing for a movie, her DIY microneedling technique, her (high and low) skincare must-haves, and the makeup she uses for a dewy look that lasts all day. Plus, she introduces us to the concept of omnidegradable packaging (her nutrition line InBloom features it) and explains how it can make the beauty and wellness industry more sustainable. -- For links, products, and sponsors m...
Jul 08, 2021•51 min•Ep. 317
What is UPF clothing and how does it actually protect you from UV rays? So glad you asked! We explain the technology, tell you about some of our favorite brands, and share an easy hack for making your own sun-protective clothing at home. We also chat about #cryptocosmetics from e.l.f. Cosmetics; sunscreen-scented dog-poop bags (?!); a Lisa Frank lawsuit; the Environmental Working Group's product-labeling initiative; Scarlett Johansson's beauty line; and animal-friendly news at major fashion labe...
Jul 06, 2021•34 min•Ep. 316
Professor Lauren Labrecque, PhD, researches how color influences the decisions we make and the culture around us. In this interview, she takes a closer look at the logos and packaging from some of our favorite beauty brands to explain how they influence our purchasing behavior. Plus, we learn about sensory marketing and color psychology; the shade that makes people eat less; the hue sports teams use to influence a game; and the color you should wear if you need roadside assistance (really!). -- ...
Jul 01, 2021•53 min
Do your underarms need a deep cleaning? We take a closer look at armpit detox products to see A) how they work and B) if they’re necessary. Plus, in Jenn’s Science Corner, we dig into new research that found PFAs (perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances that are often referred to as “forever chemicals”) in cosmetics sold in North America and discuss how prevalent the chemicals are, their potential dangers, legislation that could address the issue, and what it means for you. Plus: the elf e...
Jun 29, 2021•35 min•Ep. 314
Model Cindy Crawford is refreshingly honest about her “age maintenance” and what it’s like to model at 55 during this wide-ranging interview. She shares stories from the set of MTV’s House of Style , explains why she’ll never be able to do makeup as well as Naomi Campbell, and reveals what she said to her daughter, Kaia Gerber, before they walked the Versace runway together. Plus: the real reason she started Meaningful Beauty (her skincare brand, which just expanded with a new haircare range), t...
Jun 24, 2021•47 min•Ep. 313
Jenn is back from her trip to Germany with…a treatment that helps varicose veins! Listen in as she reports from the field (literally) on the benefits of Kneippen (undergoing hydrotherapy). Plus, Michael Edwards’ popular fragrance wheel gets an update, and there's lots of other beauty news to discuss: Sephora will upgrade its clean beauty standards; Paula’s Choice has a new owner; sales of lipstick (especially long-wear formulas) are rising; and more. -- Become a Fat Mascara+ member to listen to ...
Jun 22, 2021•36 min•Ep. 312
In honor of Acne Awareness Month, we asked dermatologist Dr. Chris Tomassian (who has more than a million followers on TikTok) to answer your acne questions. In this special episode, powered by The INKEY List, we discuss acne types and causes, reveal which foods can make your skin worse, teach you how to tell if your acne is hormonal, and more. Plus, Dr. Tomassian explains the ingredients you can use to help treat pimples, blackheads, and even cystic acne at home. For a list of products featured...
Jun 17, 2021•47 min•Ep. 311
How do you trim long brow hairs and clean up the area *above* your eyebrows without messing things up? Jess shares what she learned from Angela Marinescu, the “queen of brows.” Before that, Jenn’s science corner is devoted to the benzene-in-sunscreen controversy. Plus, there’s lots of news to discuss: NFTs (non-fungible tokens) in the beauty world; the rise of waterless beauty products (and a listener review of solid conditioner bars that really work); vegan-friendly news at The Body Shop; and m...
Jun 15, 2021•32 min•Ep. 310
Victoria Beckham and Sarah Creal, the co-founders of Victoria Beckham Beauty, chat about their brand, #startuplife, and their take on clean beauty. Also, Victoria opens up about her makeup journey (including those "skinny, skinny eyebrows"), her immutable public image, and her lifelong obsession with beauty products. -- Visit victoriabeckhambeauty.com and use code FATMASCARA at checkout for 10% off; Episode recap & list of products featured: fatmascara.com/blog ; To shop the products: myshlf...
Jun 10, 2021•52 min•Ep. 309
If you want to remove peach fuzz and unwanted facial hair while gently exfoliating your skin, shaving just might be the answer. Jenn, a longtime face shaver, shares her experience with DIY dermaplaning and offers tips from her dermatologist, Dr. Heidi Waldorf, then she and Jess reveal the best face shavers for women. Before that, get up to speed on the latest in beauty: a review of Huda Beauty's new line, GloWish; skincare by Hyram Yarbo; Harry Styles' beauty line; Ulta’s 15% Pledge; a new color...
Jun 08, 2021•33 min•Ep. 308
Is it time to ban the word “normal” in discussions of body shape and skin and hair type? Yes, says model Ashley Graham. The author and TV host also explains how to do (realistic!) daily affirmations and shares the things that make her feel good: meditation, prayer, and acupuncture—along with facials, exfoliation, occasional hair removal, and the meticulous application of self-tanner. (If you want to self-tan without looking fake, take notes as she shares her foolproof technique!) -- Episode reca...
Jun 03, 2021•38 min•Ep. 307
Hair-repair treatments are so confusing! In this episode, we break down the differences between K18, Olaplex, bond builders, split-end menders, and other assorted hair damage treatments. We’ll also get you up to speed on the beauty news: the truth about blue-light damage; new CVS research on how we respond to photo retouching; the most-searched skincare brands; changes at Givenchy Beauty; and a perfume that smells like…Van Gogh. -- For a list of most products featured in this episode: myshlf.us/...
Jun 01, 2021•34 min•Ep. 306
Learn more about cold therapy and ice facials with podcaster, blogger, and The Skinny Confidential founder Lauryn Evarts Bosstick. We also discuss her face-rolling technique; why she prefers icy showers and breathing exercises to meditation; the skincare products she can’t live without; her favorite podcast guests; and the best tips from her upcoming book, Get The F*ck Out Of The Sun . -- For a list of products featured in this episode: myshlf.us/fatmascara ; Episode recap: fatmascara.com/blog ;...
May 27, 2021•45 min•Ep. 305
Applying blush is tricky, so we’re sharing expert tips and the best products to help you (and us) get it right. Plus, we have a spirited discussion about the latest beauty news: a Google AI-powered app that will help you identify skin concerns; less-is-more beauty lines Glowish and Ami Colé; the vegan Miss Universe; a connection between smoking and hair loss; and surprising ways the Covid-19 vaccine is affecting hair salon regulations. -- For a list of products featured in this episode: myshlf.u...
May 25, 2021•34 min•Ep. 304
Lacy Redway draws inspiration from history, fashion, art, and more when she’s styling the hair of celebrity clients like Tessa Thompson, Priyanka Chopra, Ruth Negga, and Anne Hathaway. Listen in as she explains her creative process; tells us what really happens before (and after) red carpet appearances; and shares how she became a hair stylist, her secrets for healthy hair, and the one thing you better not steal from her kit. -- For a list of products featured in this episode: myshlf.us/fatmasca...
May 20, 2021•46 min•Ep. 303
Video-conferencing can affect the way you feel about your face. In this episode, we discuss how screen time distorts your perception of your looks and share a dermatologist’s tips for making your next Zoom/FaceTime/Google Hangout more positive. There’s also lots of beauty news to get into: a new deodorant for people with visual impairment and motor disabilities; the Urban Decay X Prince makeup collection; Vita Coco’s hair-care range; and more. Plus, in Jenn's Science Corner, we’re going deep on ...
May 18, 2021•38 min•Ep. 302
Body acceptance is great in theory, but how do you actually get there? Katie Sturino can help. In this episode, the style influencer behind The 12ish Style and beauty brand Megababe, and author of the forthcoming book Body Talk, s hares her journey to self-acceptance and tips for stopping the negative thought cycle. Plus, she explains why boob sweat, thigh chafe, and a melasma mustache are nothing to be ashamed of. -- For a list of products featured in this episode: myshlf.us/fatmascara ; Episod...
May 13, 2021•47 min•Ep. 301
To celebrate 300 episodes of their award-winning beauty podcast, Jess and Jenn revisit the launch show where they interviewed each other. In this special podcast, they share real-time commentary and behind-the-scenes details as they update their answers; reveal their favorite beauty products; and share the best (and worst!) beauty treatments, most cringe-worthy moments in their careers, and details of what really happens during their celebrity interviews. -- For a list of products featured in th...
May 11, 2021•1 hr•Ep. 300
Shift your self-criticism to self-compassion with the help of Valerie Monroe, creator of the How Not To F*ck Up Your Face newsletter. In this episode, Val discusses the power of de-objectifying your looks (and how she learned to do it); some of her favorite products; how to make skincare and makeup more fun; and a few things she knows for sure after serving as the beauty director of O, The Oprah magazine for almost 16 years. -- For a list of products featured in this episode: myshlf.us/fatmascar...
May 06, 2021•47 min•Ep. 299
Before you do any spring cleaning, listen to this! We talked to a cosmetic chemist about how long skincare products are safe and effective, and whether those expiration dates really matter. Before that: Does drinking chlorophyll water help with acne? Plus, lots of news to discuss: the trendy haircut we love (minus the name); why your favorite perfume might smell different next year; a surprising survey about sun-safety knowledge; and more. -- For a list of products featured in this episode: mysh...
May 04, 2021•41 min•Ep. 298
We're so excited to introduce you to the co-author of one of our favorite books, Perfumes: The A–Z Guide . In this interview, Tania Sanchez reveals the hidden love story in her book’s pages, explains how she thinks (and writes) about scent, and tells us about some of her favorite perfumes. Plus, we talk about how to move the fragrance world forward and make the art of perfumery more inclusive and easier to understand and enjoy. -- For a list of products featured in this episode: myshlf.us/fatmas...
Apr 29, 2021•47 min•Ep. 297
