Allure: The Science of Beauty artwork

Allure: The Science of Beauty

45 episodes - English - Latest episode: over 1 year ago - ★★★★★ - 248 ratings

Join Allure as we explore the inextricable link between science and beauty — and don't be surprised if you discover your next favorite serum, hair mask, or scalp treatment along the way. Jenny Bailly, executive beauty director, and Dianna Mazzone, senior beauty editor, are asking the tough questions and getting the straight answers from dermatologists, cosmetic chemists, and at least one expert on climate change (we said the questions were tough). So if you’ve always wondered what a wrinkle actually is (and how retinol can make it go away), or why your hair is curly (and which polymers will give it the most spring), come get nerdy with us!

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Episodes

Introducing: The Run-Through

November 11, 2022 16:59 - 11 minutes

You can listen & follow The Run-Through with this link, with new episodes airing weekly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Introducing Dynasty

May 12, 2022 09:00 - 11 minutes

Unimaginable secrets. Unyielding power. Devastating rifts and shocking allegiances. With surprising new interviews as well as historic sound, Vanity Fair’s DYNASTY examines the ties that bind the most influential families in the world today, taking you inside their lives for a glimpse at the inner workings of privilege. The DYNASTY debut season goes deep on the modern Windsors with Vanity Fair’s royal correspondent Katie Nicholl and staff writer Erin Vanderhoof, who reexamine the complex, som...

S2 Ep. 6 | Hair Dye

December 23, 2021 10:00 - 32 minutes

It's our final episode of the year! After reviewing the colorful — pun very-much intended — history of hair dye, Jenny and Dianna team up with cosmetic chemist Dr. Anne Wagner to answer all your burning (well, hopefully not burning) questions about coloring your hair.  This episode of Allure: The Science of Beauty is presented by Head & Shoulders, available at Target. Don’t miss out on new episodes of Allure: The Science of Beauty on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcas...

S2 Ep. 5 | Scalp

December 16, 2021 10:00 - 31 minutes

This week, we're covering the topic holding this whole season together: our scalps. Join Jenny, Dianna, and guest Dr. Rolanda Wilkerson, principal scientist for Head & Shoulders, as they get to the root of dandruff, dryness, and every other scalp issue imaginable. This episode of Allure: The Science of Beauty is presented by Head & Shoulders, available at Target. Don’t miss out on new episodes of Allure: The Science of Beauty on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. L...

S2 Ep. 4 | Hair Loss/Thinning

December 09, 2021 10:00 - 32 minutes

As we speak, there are about 30 million women in the United States who are experiencing hair loss and thinning as caused by genetics — yet the topic remains taboo. So this week, Jenny and Dianna called in dermatologist Nazanin Saedi to investigate the different causes of hair loss and review the many treatment options available — while getting real about the costs. This episode of Allure: The Science of Beauty is presented by Head & Shoulders. Don’t miss out on new episodes of Allure: The Sci...

S2 Ep. 3 | Frizz

December 02, 2021 10:00 - 27 minutes

This week, Jenny and Dianna are going to battle with a universal enemy: frizz. Join them — along with cosmetic chemist Erica Douglas — as they dive deep into what causes frizz and how to prevent it, plus share the frizz-fighters we should all add to our arsenal. This episode of Allure: The Science of Beauty is presented by Pantene. Don’t miss out on new episodes of Allure: The Science of Beauty on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices....

S2 Ep. 2 | Conditioner

November 25, 2021 10:00 - 34 minutes

Be honest — have you ever wondered what conditioner is actually... doing? This week, Jenny and Dianna are exploring the MVP of any in-shower routine with help from Dr. Jeni Thomas, global principal scientist for Pantene.  This episode of Allure: The Science of Beauty is presented by Pantene. Don’t miss out on new episodes of Allure: The Science of Beauty on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

S2 Ep. 1 | Silicones

November 18, 2021 10:00 - 30 minutes

Our second season is off to a spooky start, as we investigate a vilified ingredient... that's probably on your skin right now. Eek! But don't worry — cosmetic chemist Perry Romanowski is here to help Jenny and Dianna bust some myths about silicones. This episode of Allure: The Science of Beauty is presented by Pantene. Don’t miss out on new episodes of Allure: The Science of Beauty on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podca...

Introducing Allure: The Science of Beauty, Season 2

November 11, 2021 05:00 - 1 minute

Did you miss us? The Science of Beauty, a podcast from Allure, is back for a second season. And this time, things are getting... hairy. Join Jenny Bailly, executive beauty director, and Dianna Mazzone, senior beauty editor, as they investigate all the hair tips, tricks and myths that you've always wondered about. Season 2 launches Thursday, November 18th, with new episodes releasing weekly. Subscribe now so you don't miss our first episode all about one of the most mysterious ingredients in h...

Introducing In Vogue: The 2000s

September 07, 2021 09:00 - 1 minute

In season 2 of In Vogue: The 2000s, we explore how fashion fused with every aspect of pop culture to become a global entertainment engine ubiquitous in culture--impinging on the global consciousness like never before. From Nicholas Ghesquière awakening the sleeping fashion house of Balenciaga, to Vogue putting the couture into Juicy Couture, and discussing Carrie Bradshaw’s influence on trendy 2000s fashion with Sarah Jessica Parker, we cover the iconic looks that defined the decade. Hear how...

The Inside Story: Peptides

July 13, 2021 10:00 - 8 minutes

These tiny chains of amino acids are among the most powerful topical tools we have to help smooth wrinkles and restore skin firmness — here’s why. (Special thanks to Dermatologist Cindy Bae) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Inside Story: Niacinamide

July 06, 2021 10:00 - 8 minutes

This clinically-proven vitamin B3 derivative can help treat acne, brighten dark spots, and smooth fine lines and wrinkles. No wonder it’s taken TikTok by storm. (Special thanks to Dermatologist Shari Marchbein) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Inside Story: Jojoba Oil

June 29, 2021 10:00 - 7 minutes

This natural oil has a funny-sounding name, but it’s got serious benefits for skin and hair—especially if yours feel parched. Best of all, you can easily snag a bottle on your next grocery-store run. (Special thanks to Dermatologist Rita V. Linker) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Introducing: Healthyish

June 24, 2021 10:00 - 4 minutes

We're excited to be bringing you a sneak peek at the latest from our friends at Bon Appétit! Healthyish is a six-part mini-series that takes on food and wellness in all their delicious complexity. Join host Amanda Shapiro (editorial director of Bon Appétit and the founding editor of Healthyish) along with professional chefs, home cooks, foragers, and of course our very own cast of Bon Appétit personalities to dive deep into what it means to eat, drink, and live healthy(ish), with lots of cook...

The Inside Story: Tea Tree Oil

June 22, 2021 10:00 - 7 minutes

This essential oil is a triple-threat against breakouts, but if you want to reap the benefits, you’ve got to take it slow. (Special thanks to Dermatologist Alyx Rosen Aigen) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Inside Story: Kojic Acid

June 15, 2021 10:00 - 8 minutes

This skin brightener is one of few ingredients that can help reduce the dark spots and discoloration also known as hyperpigmentation—but there’s more to the story. Listen in, then read this investigative report on skin lightening products published by Allure last year: https://www.allure.com/story/end-of-skin-whitening-products (Special thanks to Dermatologist Evan Rieder) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Inside Story: Squalane

June 08, 2021 10:00 - 6 minutes

This moisturizing lipid has a complicated backstory, but it’s worth sifting through the facts to uncover the hydrating benefits, particularly if you have oily skin. (Special thanks to Dermatologist Paul Jarrod Frank) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Inside Story: Cica

June 01, 2021 10:00 - 7 minutes

This soothing ingredient has a fascinating origin story—and compelling research on why it works so well to treat inflammatory skin conditions like eczema and help accelerate wound healing. If you have sensitive skin, you’ll definitely want to check out this list of our favorite cica-infused products: https://www.allure.com/gallery/cica-skin-care-products (Special thanks to cosmetic chemist Marisal Mou) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Inside Story: Ceramides

May 25, 2021 10:00 - 8 minutes

Without our body’s natural ceramides, our skin cells would dry up and shrivel. Apply ceramides topically, and these lipids help your skin cells not just survive, but thrive. Here are some of our favorite ceramide-enriched products to get you started: https://www.allure.com/gallery/best-ceramide-skin-care-products (Special thanks to Dermatologist Elyse Love) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Inside Story: Biotin

May 18, 2021 10:00 - 7 minutes

Biotin has earned a reputation as the “it” supplement if you’re looking to grow out your hair or strengthen your nails — though surprisingly, there’s very little clinical research behind its supposed beauty benefits. But we do know about the B vitamin might very well surprise you... (Special thanks to Dermatologist Annie Chiu) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Inside Story: Collagen

May 11, 2021 10:00 - 9 minutes

We have natural collagen to thank for our skin’s resilience and firmness… or lack thereof. Collagen depletes as we age, but can applying it topically — or even ingesting it — make a difference in the quality of your skin? Let’s find out! (Special thanks to Dermatologist Melanie Palm) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Inside Story: Sulfur

May 04, 2021 10:00 - 5 minutes

The skin benefits of sulfur are often overshadowed by its rather... stinky reputation. But we suspect you’ll quickly get over the smell when you learn what this ingredient can do to help fight acne. (Special thanks to Dermatologist Corey L. Hartman) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Inside Story: Turmeric

April 27, 2021 10:00 - 8 minutes

This week, we're exploring an ingredient with a storied past — and a promising future. Turmeric is spiked with curcumin, an antioxidant that helps protect skin from damaging free radicals. It can also treat inflammatory conditions like rosacea and eczema, which is why you'll often find turmeric in calming lotions and serums. Listen in, then shop our turmeric-infused favorites here: https://www.allure.com/gallery/turmeric-based-skin-care-products (Special thanks to Dermatologist Kavita Mariwal...

The Inside Story: CBD

April 20, 2021 10:00 - 7 minutes

For our debut episode, we're setting the record straight on one of the most polarizing ingredients out there: cannabidiol, also known as CBD. While there's a lot we still don't know about what it can do for your skin — because neither do scientists and researchers — there are some widely-agreed upon rules of thumb to keep in mind when buying a CBD-infused product. Here's a list of Allure editors' favorites to get you started: https://www.allure.com/gallery/weed-laced-beauty-products (Special ...

Allure's The Science of Beauty Presents "The Inside Story: Ingredients

April 19, 2021 18:54 - 50 seconds

Ever pick up a jar of moisturizer, slather it over every inch of your face, then look at the ingredients list and realize...you have absolutely no idea what's actually inside that jar? Or, if it’s going to do anything at all for your skin? Allure’s senior beauty editor Dianna Mazzone hosts The Inside Story, a new miniseries from the producers of Allure’s The Science of Beauty podcast that cuts through marketing language and glittering claims to dissect the why, how, and what’s-in-it-for-me of...

Ep. 15 | Face Masks

February 25, 2021 11:00 - 41 minutes

There are the face masks you wear when you have to go outside in a pandemic. And then there are the face masks you wear when you're safely inside (preferably with an episode of Bridgerton queued up) and in the mood to give your skin a little TLC. Since this is a podcast by Allure, our episode is all about the latter kind. With the help of dermatologist David Kim, Michelle and Jenny break down the many types of masks on the market (sheet, clay, mud, charcoal, you name it) and test out a tighte...

Ep. 14 | Hydration

February 18, 2021 11:00 - 45 minutes

Do you hear a humming noise? You should, because running a humidifier is just one of the many ways you can help keep your skin happy and hydrated all winter long. Of course, there are tons of topical options too, but it's not as simple as slathering on the thickest cream you can find and saying a prayer. That's why Michelle and Jenny tapped Christine Lee, a senior research and development manager with AHC (Korea's #1 skin-care brand), and dermatologist Claire Chang to share why hydration is t...

Ep. 13 | Skin-Care Layering

February 11, 2021 13:07 - 34 minutes

Whether you’re assembling a rainbow cake or putting together a skin-care routine, proper layering is essential. And the multistep regimens that have become synonymous with K-beauty (we're talking 10, 12, and even 17 steps) have turned the way we apply serum, moisturizer, and oil into an art form. To master it, Michelle and Jenny called upon dermatologist Marie Jhin to share some hard-and-fast rules for layering and to spell out exactly how — and when — to apply your skin-care products for max...

Introducing Allure: The Science of Beauty - K-Beauty Edition

February 04, 2021 12:00 - 2 minutes

What's better than dedicating one episode of The Science of Beauty to all things K-beauty? Well, dedicating three of 'em, that's what! For the next several weeks, hosts Michelle Lee, editor in chief, and Jenny Bailly, executive beauty director, are taking a deep dive into some of the most important facets of Korean skin care, including layering, hydration, and masking. Along the way, you'll learn practical tips (yes, face oil should be the last product you apply at night) and next-level terms...

Ep. 12 | Lasers

December 30, 2020 11:00 - 46 minutes

Cue the Star Wars-style sound effects, because this week's episode is all about lasers. The ones we're talking about can't defeat the dark side, but they can conquer dark spots. And unwanted hair and broken blood vessels and scars. With the help of dermatologist Tina Alster, Michelle and Jenny demystify some of the lasers you may have heard about (like Fraxel), nerd out about how they work, and share the surprising things that happen to your skin following some laser treatments (they speak fr...

Ep. 11 | Body Hair

December 23, 2020 11:00 - 47 minutes

Now that we've given the hair on our head its due, we're traveling south to explore the hair we have everywhere else. And we mean everywhere: Our bodies are covered with about five million follicles from tip to toe, except for our lips, palms, and the soles of our feet. First, Michelle and Jenny travel back in time with anthropologist Nina Jablonski, who explains how our ancestors went from thoroughly hairy to basically naked over the course of a half-million years. After that, dermatologist ...

Ep. 10 | Scalp

December 17, 2020 11:00 - 42 minutes

Put down your lunch, because this episode begins with a very, uh, vivid description of every nook and cranny on Jenny's scalp, as seen through the microscopic lens of consulting trichologist David Adams. (Don't worry, we explain what a trichologist is within the first three minutes.) Then, Michelle and Jenny welcome dermatologist Michelle Henry, who explains the many ways you should care for your scalp (but probably aren't) and the best treatment options for issues like itchiness, oiliness, a...

Ep. 9 | Curls

December 10, 2020 11:00 - 41 minutes

If you have spirals, coils, or waves, you already know that having curly hair isn't just a trait; it's a lifestyle. So we packed this episode with tips, tricks, and techniques, beginning with an easy at-home test that can make a big difference in determining how to care for your hair. After that, Michelle and Jenny call in cosmetic chemist Erica Douglas to explain what curls actually are, debunk some common myths (yes, your curl pattern really can change over time), and a whole lot more. Then...

Ep. 8 | Stress

December 03, 2020 11:00 - 43 minutes

You can't always control a stressful situation, but you can control the way you — and in some ways, even your skin and hair — react to one. During this episode, Belisa Vranich, psychologist and founder of The Breathing Class, walks Michelle and Jenny through simple exercises that use breath to bring peace of mind. Next up is Amy Wechsler, one of very few humans to be board-certified in dermatology and psychiatry, who stops by to discuss the cruel and unusual ways stress can impact our skin an...

Ep. 7 | Shampoo

November 25, 2020 11:00 - 43 minutes

Imagine a world where instead of using shampoo, you relied on the powders and liquids in your pantry to keep your hair looking (and smelling) fresh. That was reality just a little more than 100 years ago; Today, the shampoo aisle has a dizzying number of options. In this episode — our first to focus on hair — Michelle and Jenny try an old-school hair-washing method before cosmetic chemist and longtime Allure collaborator Ni'Kita Wilson joins in to share the latest and greatest ways to remove ...

Ep. 6 | Acids

November 19, 2020 11:00 - 41 minutes

As the old saying goes: An acid a day (or, uh, every few days if you're sensitive) keeps breakouts, fine lines, and dullness away. And no, we don't mean that kind of acid. In this episode, we're talking about AHAs and BHAs — the acids commonly used in skin care to help slough off dead cells and keep complexions bright. First, Michelle and Jenny try a product that proves how powerful acids can be — and completely gross-out their loved ones in the process. Then, dermatologist Laurel Naversen Ge...

Introducing SELF: Checking In

November 16, 2020 11:00 - 1 minute

Introducing Checking In, the advice podcast where we answer real health and wellness questions from real people like you. Hosted by SELF’s Editor in Chief, Carolyn Kylstra, and featuring trusted experts, doctors, therapists, thought leaders, and even a few celebrities, we’re diving deep into what it really means to be healthy. Checking In launches on Monday, November 16th, with new episodes releasing weekly. Subscribe to get episodes right when they drop at 6:00 am EST. Listen to Checking In ...

Ep. 5 | Vitamins in Skin Care

November 12, 2020 11:00 - 35 minutes

You know vitamins as the micronutrients our body needs in order to function, but when applied topically, vitamins can have a profound effect on the health and appearance of our skin. In this episode, Michelle and Jenny learn about the man who first gave these micronutrients a name (he just so happens to have a very cool one himself) and tell the forgotten tale of the lost vitamins. Then, with the help of Dr. Frauke Neuser, PhD, Principal Scientist & Senior Director of Science Communications a...

Ep. 4 | Wrinkles

November 05, 2020 11:00 - 40 minutes

Let's get one thing straight: It's a privilege to have wrinkles. But if you want your skin to look as youthful as you feel, modern medicine has a few tricks up its sleeve, and injectables like Botox are chief among them. Ophthalmologist Jean Carruthers sits down with Michelle and Jenny to tell the truly unbelievable tale of how she "accidentally" discovered that botulinum toxin could smooth brows and erase frown lines. And dermatologist Melissa Levin shares the scoop on the most effective top...

Ep. 3 | Pores

October 29, 2020 10:00 - 42 minutes

There are millions of tiny openings all over your skin — and if you didn't have them, you'd be dead. If that makes you feel squeamish, then cover your ears, because we've got dermatologist Sandra Lee, also known as Dr. Pimple Popper, in the house. The social media sensation and reality star walks Michelle and Jenny through how she extracted one gigantic blackhead from a single pore. After that, dermatologist Shereene Idriss joins the party to explain the misconceptions surrounding "poreless" ...

Ep. 2 | Hyperpigmentation

October 22, 2020 10:00 - 29 minutes

Our skin is home to many tiny factories called melanocytes. They're responsible for producing the pigment that gives skin its color. But certain triggers like UV light can send those factories into overdrive, resulting in dark spots and discoloration known as hyperpigmentation. In this episode, Michelle shares a cautionary tale of some splotchy, unwanted mementos from one magical island vacation in her youth, and dermatologist Mona Gohara breaks down the best ingredients and in-office lasers ...

Ep. 1 | Sunscreen

October 15, 2020 10:00 - 38 minutes

Without protection from UV rays, every one of the greatest beauty innovations of the modern age — retinoids, AHAs, hyaluronic acid, lasers — is a big, old waste of time and money. It's fitting then that our debut episode is all about SPF. First, Michelle and Jenny have a frank talk with Shyla Raghav, vice president of climate at Conservation International, about how the state of our environment makes wearing sunscreen more crucial than ever before. Then, dermatologist Caroline Robinson shares...

Teaser: Allure: The Science of Beauty

October 13, 2020 12:31 - 3 minutes

During an upcoming episode all about pores, Michelle and Jenny get nerdy with dermatologist Sandra Lee — also known as Dr. Pimple Popper — as she walks them through how she extracted one gigantic blackhead from a single pore. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Introducing Allure: The Science of Beauty

October 08, 2020 10:00 - 1 minute

Do you start group chats about the best scalp treatments? Google AHA vs BHA exfoliants until the wee hours? Take progress photos of your dark spots after trying a new vitamin C serum? You’re our people. And we know you’re going to love The Science of Beauty, a new podcast produced by the editors of Allure. Michelle Lee, editor in chief, and Jenny Bailly, executive beauty director, are deep-diving into the topics you’ve always wondered about and bringing dermatologists, cosmetic chemists — and...

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September 11, 2020 21:40 - 1 minute