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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

3 hours ago
3 hours ago
49 min
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 realities behind K-Beauty. We break down the evolution of multi-step routines, the truths behind product categories like toners and essences, and why classic ingredients like snail mucin continue to hold up under scientific scrutiny. From the manufacturing hurdles of hot-pour cleansing balms to navigating US sunscreen filter regulations, we unpack what it takes to formulate effective products amidst viral TikTok trends.
If you enjoyed this deep dive, don't forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and hit the notification bell 🔔 for more science-backed skincare breakdowns! #sokoglam @sokoglam #skincarescience

7 days ago
7 days ago
25 min
#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 Serum. We discuss their PDRN ingredient sourcing and why higher concentrations aren't always better—highlighting in vitro and clinical data showing why 1,200 ppm of salmon-derived PDRN is an optimal sweet spot for barrier recovery and hydration. We also analyze their Advanced PDRN Copper Peptide Serum, exploring how encapsulating delicate copper tripeptides helps maintain formula integrity, alongside its clinical results on heat-induced skin stress, elasticity, and fine lines. Finally, we share our real-world user experience on how to layer these unique gel-gel textures into your existing routine. #rejuall #pdrn #copperpeptide
• Dr. Reju-All Official Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/4gfUXI1.
• Dr. Reju-All Advanced PDRN Rejuvenating Cream: https://amzn.to/4gdo4LT.
• Dr. Reju-All Advanced PDRN Copper Peptide Serum: https://amzn.to/4gAJmo6. #drrejuvall #ad #pdrnserum

Aug 18, 2026
Aug 18, 2026
36 min
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 intend to treat, highlight potential formula overlap (like sneaky niacinamide and bakuchiol), and discuss the layering rules you may need to consider for your routine. Hear the chemists' perspective on where peptides fit into a smart anti-aging strategy.
Timestamps
00:01 | Copper Peptide Formula Breakdown Strategy
03:00 | Remedy Copper Peptide Complex Review
06:15 | COSRX Blue Peptide Bakuchiol Serum
15:39 | Dr. Reju-All PDRN Copper Peptide Serum
19:02 | The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides
21:54 | The Orindary Copper Peptide Serum's Layering Restrictions
23:33 | Peach & Lily Copper Peptide Pro Serum
26:24 | Chemists Discuss Copper Peptide Category Efficacy
31:32 | Where Peptides Fit in Your Skincare Routine
#GHKCu #CopperPeptides #SkincareScience #FormulationScience #AntiAgingSkincare #SkincarePodcast #ChemistConfessions #30for30 #

Aug 13, 2026
Aug 13, 2026
37 min
🧪 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 elastin synthesis. We analyze the physiological realities of peptide size, molecular weight, and the famous 500 Dalton Rule to reveal how much of your product actually penetrates the skin barrier. And most importantly... all the theories and in vitro studies aside, what do the clinical studies REALLY say?
YouTube Timestamps
00:00 | Biological Role of Copper Peptides
02:55 | The Four Categories of Skincare Peptides
04:18 | What is the 500 Dalton Rule? (Skin Permeation Guidelines)
08:32 | GHK-Cu Molecular Weight & Permeability Limitations
18:41 | Copper Peptide better than Tretinoin? What the clinical data ACTUALLY say)
25:20 | Animal Fun Fact! Copper peptides in the animal kingdom
30:58 | Can you use copper peptide with vitamin C? Active Ingredient Incompatibilities & Layering Guidelines
🔗 Resources & Links Animal fun fact study for the curious: https://www.livescience.com/bloodworms-fangs-origins
Blank Slate Gel Cleanser https://chemistconfessions.com/products/blank-slate-cleanser (add to cart and get the mini for free with code MINIME)
Our Sunscreen Database! https://www.chemistconfessions.com/sunscreen
If you enjoyed this deep dive, don't forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and hit the notification bell 🔔 for more science-backed skincare breakdowns!
#GHKCu #CopperPeptides #SkincareScience #FormulationScience #AntiAgingSkincare #SkincarePodcast #ChemistConfessions #30for30 #SunscreenChallenge

Aug 7, 2026
Aug 7, 2026
32 min
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 also dive into eye-area stinging, why US mineral sunscreens hit differently, layering under makeup, handling acne flare-ups, and finding out if dropping to SPF 30 actually gives you better texture.
Timestamps
00:01:05 | How Much Sunscreen Should You Actually Apply?
00:03:22 | Why Did the Rich Area Hold Cream Get a Mediocre Rating?
00:05:51 | Can You Safe Apply Sunscreen to Eyelids Without Eye Stinging?
00:09:09 | Does Rubbing Sunscreen in Too Long Ruin the Protective Film?
00:12:09 | Are US Sunscreens Inferior to International Sunscreens?
00:15:47 | How Do You Layer Sunscreen Under Makeup Without Pilling?
00:18:00 | What Is the Best Replacement for Banana Boat Light as Air?
00:20:00 | Does Sunscreen Cause Acne Breakouts?
00:20:53 | Does Lowering to SPF 30 Offer Better Texture Than SPF 50?
00:25:17 | How Do You Proper Remove Water-Resistant Sunscreen?
Check out the rest of the sunscreen tested at chemistconfessions.com/sunscreen Don't forget to like, subscribe, and drop your favorite mineral SPF in the comments! #30for30 #SunscreenChallenge #skincarepodcast

Jul 31, 2026
Jul 31, 2026
38 min
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 Sunscreens Overview
01:30 | Economical & Drugstore Sunscreens
05:11 | Neutrogena Sport Face SPF Review
07:01 | Testing Vacation Sunscreen & Pilling Issues
09:45 | Eucerin Tinted Chemical Sunscreen
13:05 | e.l.f. Suntouchable Silicone Texture
15:35 | Anua Invisible Matte & Numbuzin SPF
25:14 | Sephora & High-End Sunscreen Breakdown
28:48 | ISDIN Fusion Water Magic Performance
33:16 | Tatcha The Silken Sunscreen & Avobenzone Stability
Check out the rest of the sunscreen tested at chemistconfessions.com/sunscreen Don't forget to like, subscribe, and drop your favorite mineral SPF in the comments! #30for30 #SunscreenChallenge #SkincarePodcast

Jul 14, 2026
Jul 14, 2026
43 min
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 sophisticated culinary habits of cockatoos!
Products Mentioned:
• Avene Anti-Pigmentation Tinted Fluid https://go.shopmy.us/p-64086387
• La Roche Posay UVMune Tinted Fluid https://go.shopmy.us/p-67227007
• La Roche Posay UV Air Serum https://go.shopmy.us/p-71463108
• Geek & Gorgeous Zero Feel https://go.shopmy.us/p-68997384
• La Roche Posay UV Mune Hydration https://go.shopmy.us/p-67239571
• Curel Moisture Intensive Care https://go.shopmy.us/p-65141082
• Cell Fusion C Laser UV Defense https://go.shopmy.us/p-71465193
• Biore Watery Hold Cream https://go.shopmy.us/p-71465570
• Biore Rich Airy Hold Cream https://go.shopmy.us/p-71465508
• Canmake Mermaid Skin Gel Feel https://go.shopmy.us/p-71465758
• Anessa Moisture Perfect https://go.shopmy.us/p-71465924
• Rhoto Skin Aqua Hyaluronic Acid Serum https://go.shopmy.us/p-67228915
Check out the rest of the sunscreen tested at chemistconfessions.com/sunscreen Don't forget to like, subscribe, and drop your favorite mineral SPF in the comments! #30for30 #SunscreenChallenge #SkincarePodcast

Jul 9, 2026
Jul 9, 2026
22 min
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 unfiltered truth on what’s worth your cash and what you should pass on. Grab your SPF, and let's get into the reviews!
Timestamps
0:00 - Intro 0:45 - Missha Perfect Cover: hybrid formula that's better as a foundation than standalone sunscreen
02:15 - Merit The Uniform: A solid coverage - SPF usage rate balance
04:00 - Bloomeffects Tulip Screen Dew Drops: serious glow, $$$$$
05:30 - CeraVe Invisible Mineral: okay daily basic, not for those in sweat-happy scenarios
07:15 - Kiehl’s Better Screen: Redness reduction & post-procedure stats
09:45 - SkinCeuticals Future Mineral: Luxury pricing vs. real anti-aging results
Products Mentioned
• Missha Perfect Cover BB Cream SPF 42 PA+++ ($24/50mL) go.shopmy.us/p-69775225
• Merit The Uniform Tinted SPF 45 ($38/50mL) go.shopmy.us/p-68610171
• Bloomeffects Tulip Screen Dew Drops SPF 50 ($39/30mL) go.shopmy.us/p-67231497
• CeraVe Invisible Mineral SPF 50 ($17/50mL) go.shopmy.us/p-69775395
• Kiehl’s Better Screen Miner-all UV Serum SPF 50 ($36/40mL) go.shopmy.us/p-69775593
• SkinCeuticals Future Mineral UV Defense SPF 50 ($60/50mL) go.shopmy.us/p-69775734
Check out the rest of the sunscreen tested at chemistconfessions.com/sunscreen Don't forget to like, subscribe, and drop your favorite mineral SPF in the comments! #30for30 #SunscreenChallenge #SkincarePodcast

Jun 25, 2026
Jun 25, 2026
56 min
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 the real metrics of sunscreen performance: initial application speed, the science behind "watery breaks," and how a product's long-term finish affects different skin types. Listeners will walk away knowing exactly how to spot uneven film formation, navigate the nuances of water and friction resistance, and decode why certain formulas cause eye irritation or pilling so they can find their perfect, reliable daily match. #skincarescience #skincare #skincareroutine #sunscreen

Jun 16, 2026
Jun 16, 2026
51 min
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 fear-mongering season. In this episode, we take a scientific look at prominent clean beauty advocacy voices like EWG and the Yuka app to untangle the science from the marketing fluff. We pull back the curtain on how these platforms analyze formulations, revealing why their extreme stances and rigid rating systems often lead to massive inconsistencies, misguided consumer fear, and ultimately, unsafe choices for your skin. By walking you through real-world formulation realities—from the stabilization challenges of zinc oxide to the actual toxicological safety profiles of chemical filters like octocrylene and vital preservatives like phenoxyethanol—we give you the context needed to tune out the noise. Tune in to ground yourself in cosmetic chemistry, find peace of mind, and gain the confidence to choose formulas that actually protect your skin daily without the unnecessary anxiety.
#skincarescience #skincare #skincareroutine
