Fat Mascara
Fat Mascara has been leading the conversation about beauty and beyond since 2016. Host Jessica Matlin, a veteran journalist and retail insider, interviews celebrities, artists, executives, doctors, perfumers, and writers. Guests share insider knowledge and express themselves in ways never heard before.
Episodes
Newsroom: GlowJob on How the Bleph Became the Biggest Procedure in the World, How Girlboss Culture Crushed The Outset, and Why Everyone Loves Touchland
On this Newsroom edition of Fat Mascara, we're joined by Julia Bellary and Sasa Li of GlowJob, the podcast about beauty and business hosted by two beauty enthusiasts from the worlds of tech and finance. We discuss how the "bleph" quickly became the most popular (and possibly most casualized) plastic surgery procedure in the world, and how girlboss culture has come back tenfold: "
Business Desk: How to Advocate for Yourself with Dana Capone, The Beauty Lawyer NYC
Dana Capone (@thebeautylawyernyc) has a 360-degree view of the legal side of beauty, having worked with both major corporations and independent creators. (Full disclosure: She also works with Fat Mascara.) Her passion is helping people advocate for themselves, which she says is a muscle you can strengthen with every difficult conversation. In this episode, she explains her "Velvet Hammer"
Makeup Artist Katie Jane Hughes Talks Investment, Working with Your Husband, the Founder Group Chats that Save Her Life, Her Top Skincare Tip, and More
Katie shares how a single Instagram question sparked the idea for her brand, KJH.Brand, now in Sephora and, until recently, entirely self-funded. (“It's quite scary,” she says of taking on investment.) We also get into why education is at the heart of everything she makes, her pet peeve about the term “self-taught,” the A-list founder group chat that keeps her sane, what it's like building
Business Desk: The Beauty Playbook Everyone Is Copying
Michelle Lee — Chief Brand Officer at Front Row and former Editor-in-Chief of Allure — joins Fat Mascara to unpack K-beauty's second wave, and why it's influencing how every brand operates. We discuss the business approach that sets K-beauty apart from the rest of the world, and drill down on the strategies K-beauty brands consistently rely on — from ingredient-first innovation and embraci
Isaac Mizrahi: Unzipped and Unfiltered
Legendary designer, performer, and the creative force that Isaac Mizrahi sits down with to talk about newly restored re-release of fashion’s favorite documentary, Unzipped, which hits theaters on September 25th before streaming in December. In this interview, we ping pong between topics like: Summers at the Jersey shore; his close friendship with the late, legendary Kevyn Aucoin; drag culture; syn
The Peptide Princess Speaks! Dr. Amanda Kahn on the New GLP-1s, Low-Ferritin Face, Reddit Rxs, and More
A longevity doctor? In this economy? We've got her. Dr. Amanda Kahn — affectionately known as "The Peptide Princess" — is a board-certified internist on the Upper East Side with a blocks-long waitlist. In this episode, Dr. Kahn explains what a longevity doctor actually does, what's happening in unregulated gray markets, and the troubling trends parents need to know about (and look
Hot Topics in Plastic Surgery: A Roundtable Discussion with Dr. Sean Alemi, Dr. Babak Azizzadeh, and Dr. Darren Smith
Jessica gathers three A-list plastic surgeons — Dr. Sean Alemi, Dr. Babak Azizzadeh, and Dr. Darren Smith — for a rare joint conversation on the hottest topics in aesthetics. They break down how to actually find a great surgeon and the critical questions to ask along the way. The conversation also covers how GLP-1s are reshaping their practices, why professional aftercare is becoming more commonpl
Erin Parsons: From Makeup Artist to Makeup Archivist
Erin Parsons is not a makeup artist anymore. On this episode of Fat Mascara, she explains why she quit the business at the very top, making the leap into full-time content creation in her 40s. Her niche: deep-diving into beauty history and finding a completely new audience, from 13-year-olds to makeup artists to "guys who don't care about makeup at all." ("I figured out the algorithm," she says.)
Business Desk: Investor Manica Blain of Top Knot Ventures on Why Creator Brands Are The Buzziest Big Bet
Manica Blain of Top Knot Ventures shares her perspective on TSG's major stake in Saltair, and what that may mean for the future of beauty. She breaks down the critical difference between "creator" and influencer brands, and the real reasons big beauty conglomerates aren't in a rush to add these brands to their portfolios. She also shares her predictions on which brands are poised for the next big
Fragrance Expert Thomas Dunckley: The Great Dupe Debate, GLP-1’s Impact on Perfume, and The Genius of Thierry Mugler’s Angel
Fragrance expert Thomas Dunckley (aka Making Sense of Scent, formerly Candy Perfume Boy) joins us to talk about GLP-1s' unexpected role in the fragrance business, his "strong feelings about dupes," and the viral Scent Sounds series, in which Dunckley pairs perfumes with iconic albums. Plus, he shares his real thoughts on PR gifting, what "fragrance people" all seem to have in common, and the fragr
Newsroom: Hallie Gould of Byrdie and Lauren Valenti of InStyle: Kitten Fur Fragrances, The Return of Spray Tanning, CoverGirl’s Gen X Pivot, and More
Hallie Gould (Editor-in-Chief of Byrdie) and Lauren Valenti (Beauty Director of InStyle) talk about the stories getting the biggest reactions on the internet, from the kitten fur fragrance trend, Zendaya’s soft-focus blush, why spray tans are booming, CoverGirl’s Gen X pivot, and more. They also reveal some of their favorite products, from Hallie’s perfect red lipstick to Lauren’s cheap and cheerf
Business Desk: Alison Hahn, Beauty Retail Expert and Former SVP of Makeup, Fragrance, and Sephora at Kohl’s
Beauty retail whisperer Alison Hahn is one of the industry's most sought-after experts, with a track record of identifying major players like Patrick Ta, Kayali, and Makeup by Mario. On this episode of Fat Mascara: Business Desk, Hahn talks about selling to Gen Alpha, reengaging Gen Xers, beauty dupes, the big mistake celebrity founders often make, tough vendor conversations, and more.
Ione Gamble and Gina Tonic on the Ableism in Wellness, Snooty Status Symbols in Beauty, and the General Tyranny of Good Taste
The Polyester queens, Ione Gamble and Gina Tonic, are back, and this time with a fabulous new book, The Polyester Book of (Bad) Taste. On this episode, we chat about the new plastic surgery status games, the return of old fashioned kitsch, why Charli XCX could only have exploded now, how wellness culture can be quite ableist, and more. More from Fat Mascara
Hairstylist James Pecis on Fashion FOMO, His Answer to Beauty's Plastic Problem, and More
James Pecis is one of the world's most respected, in-demand hairstylists, working with celebrities like Billie Eilish for Vogue, as the key hairstylist for Chanel's runway shows, and, of course, creating memorable looks for countless fashion ads and editorials. In this episode, James talks about why he reset his pace to prioritize family and the growth of his buzzy brand, Blu & Green, a direct
Best of FM: Makeup Artist Marcelo Gutierrez
We are taking a week off from Fat Mascara as it’s not only the United State’s 250th birthday, but it’s also...it Madonna’s Confessions II release week!!! What better interview to share with you than makeup artist Marcello Gutierrez, who is currently collaborating with The Queen of Pop herself? Marcelo is a makeup artist, creative director, filmmaker, and his work can only be described as sexy, exp
Business Desk: What Gen Z is Actually Buying with the Selleb Sisters
NYC-based sisters Chloe and Claire Lee started the Selleb newsletter as a place to discover what beauty and fashion-obsessed people are actually buying (as verified by their receipts—i.e. no sponcon, please!). Now an app, this discovery platform allows more people to share their receipts and quickly connect with others who share a similar taste “timeline.” In this Business Desk, we talk about the
Newsroom: Linda Wells on Bezos’s Glow-Up, Paris Hilton’s Home Spa, $250K Facelifts, and More
It doesn’t get bigger than Linda Wells, the founding editor of Allure magazine, branding consultant, founder of Flesh, and now a columnist for Air Mail, and the editor of Look (Air Mail’s beauty vertical). Linda was the woman who decided beauty was worthy of its own conversation, with sharp reporting, a critical eye, and of course, a sense of humor. She brings all of that to this episode of Fat Ma
Makeup artist Lisa Eldridge on Marilyn Monroe's Beauty Legacy, Illegal Pigments, and Least Favorite Internet Makeup Trend
Makeup artist Lisa Eldridge really, really loves makeup. Yes, she works with every big fashion title and A-list celebrity (Kate Winslet, Dua Lipa), but she’s just as happy organizing her illegal pigment collection, buying vintage makeup, and studying exactly what shade of transparent red lip color her beauty icon Marilyn Monroe wore in 1952. Join us for a chat in Lisa’s NYC pop-up to discuss her b
Marc Jacobs on Beauty, Image, and More
Marc Jacobs is in the building. We repeat, Marc Jacobs is in the building! On this short-but-sweet episode of Fat Mascara, the designer talks about the hotly anticipated return of Marc Jacobs Beauty, the women on his forever mood board, his ever-evolving image, his low-maintenance beauty routine, and more. More from Fat Mascara Instagram: @fatmascara @
British Beauty Editor Sarah Jossel on "The White Bread Skincare Routine," the best beauty splurges, and what on earth a beauty editor actually does
Sarah Jossel, author of Diary of a Beauty Editor: What Works, What Doesn't — From the Woman Who Really Knows, answers the question once and for all: what does a beauty editor actually do? Once that's established, she shares the products she actually pays for, the drugstore brand that's a dream for sensitive skin, Lisa Eldridge's life-changing advice, and more. More fro
Makeup Artist Kristofer Buckle on the best 40-plus makeup tips, his genius deep plane facelift, the best Instagram beauty products, and more
Makeup artist Kristofer Buckle returns to Fat Mascara! One of our most-requested guests, he talks about traveling the world with longtime client and friend Mariah Carey, why he got a deep plane facelift with top NYC plastic surgeon Dr. David Rosenberg (another Fat Mascara guest), the best beauty tips for women 40+, why people are obsessed with the '90s, and more. We laugh A LOT. &
Artists’ Salon: Hairstylists Mara Roszak and Barb Thompson
What happens when a totally established hairstylist like Barb Thompson—a woman with her own successful salon in northern California—leaves it all behind to live her dream and work alongside celebrity hairstylist/Rōz haircare founder Mara Roszak (Emma Stone and Olivia Wilde)? The two make even more magic. In this Artists’ Salon episode, Mara and Barb talk about collaboration, owning your own busine
British Hair Legend Sam McKnight Stands Up for Beauty Teams: “We need a new deal.”
British hairdresser Sam McKnight MBE expands on his bombshell op-ed for Business of Fashion, “Hair and Makeup Artists Need a New Deal.” McKnight (with over 200 British Vogue covers to his name) pulls back the curtain on the business of beauty editorial and explains why artists often don’t get the credit, payment, or even protection that they’re owed. McKnight shares advice for
Caroline Hirons is Back, Baby!
Skincare expert, SkinRocks founder, self-described "post-menopausal grandmother who is tired of everyone's B.S.," and the most popular Fat Mascara guest to date, Caroline Hirons returns to discuss her least favorite beauty jargon, building her own brand after making money for so many others, the life-changing effects of hormone replacement therapy (HRT), the jeans she swears by
Ask the Expert: Dr Dhaval G. Bhanusali
Board certified dermatologist Dr. Dhaval Bhanusali is in the Fat Mascara studio answering our listeners’ most pressing skincare questions. The Rhode dermatologist and Elm Biosciences CMO/Co-Founder gives his top solutions for under eye circles and under eye bags, shares his real feelings on the K-beauty hype, whether or not facial massage does anything, his favorite lasers for
Makeup Artist Molly R. Stern
Molly R. Stern is one of Hollywood's most sought-after makeup artists, celebrated for her luminous aesthetic and a loyal clientele that reads like a who's who (Reese Witherspoon, Maya Rudolph, Tracee Ellis Ross, and Natasha Lyonne, to name a few). We sat down with her to talk favorite products (from the best drugstore blush to the most worthwhile skincare splurge), but the best bit? Moll
Business Desk: Camille Moore, The Internet’s Favorite Branding Expert
When Camille Moore speaks, beauty brands listen. “The Internet’s Favorite Branding Expert” gives a mini masterclass on what all of us can do to clarify our message and be heard, whether on social media or IRL. More from Fat Mascara Instagram: @fatmascara @jessicamatlin Shop the products mentioned on Fat Mascara: https://shopmy.us/shop/fatmascar
Newsroom: Andrea Lavinthal
Andrea Lavinthal, People’s Executive Director of Special Integrated Projects and Greenwich Mom(TM), sits down with Jess to talk about Cindy Crawford’s polarizing (but frankly unsurprising) GRWM video, the return of the 90s zig zag headband, mommy makeovers, red light devices that work, the very best mascara, and so much more. More from Fat Mascara 
Artists’ Salon: Bobbi Brown and Daniel Martin
Fat Mascara relaunches this year with a conversation between makeup artists Bobbi Brown and Daniel Martin, two icons who have built their careers on natural beauty. Hear how they found their trademark aesthetic, navigated professional change, remain grounded outside of the industry, and more. More from Fat Mascara Instagram: @fatmascara @jessicamatlin&nb
Ep. 580: Bye for Now
Jenn & Jess take a look back at some of the best moments in Fat Mascara history. We share stories about our celebrity guests, memorable moments from the past 10 years, shout outs to the super fans (you know who you are!), favorite interviews, bloopers, and more. We also give a huge and heartfelt thank you to our team at Redd Rock Music, especially Redd Yoachum and Enrique Hinojosa; our co
Everybody Loves This Caroline Hirons Interview
This classic from the FM archives is our most popular interview ever. In it, skincare expert Caroline Hirons explains the right order to apply products and tells us how she really feels about “clean” beauty, INCI lists, the Environmental Working Group (EWG), the beauty-industry patriarchy, myths about pores, acid solutions, hyaluronic acid, and more. The interview originally aired in 2020. We’ll b
Ep. 579: What’s In Our Bags, Big News & The Week in Beauty
In this special episode, Jenn & Jess discuss big podcast changes ahead and then unpack their bags, in a segment sponsored by Maybelline New York and Acast Creative. We also have Gen Z (Fat Mascara’s intern, Lexi) talking beauty with Gen Alpha (11-year-old Nyah) and thoughts about what’s going on at Drunk Elephant. Plus: Ole Henriksen’s biopic; another beauty Roblox game; love for Ceremonia; an
Ep. 578: Butt Skincare, Hyaluronic Acid & The Week’s Beauty News
What random body part will Big Beauty make a product for next?! Jenn & Garrett talk about it: skincare for your butt, probiotic oral care, and a new hyaluronic acid injectable gel for dry eyes. Garrett shares personal news that inspires a conversation about the connection between beauty and mental health. Plus, we raise wands to Sofie Pavitt’s mandelic serum, zit stickers that double as bandag
Mental Health & Beauty with Dr. Afiya Mbilishaka
Beauty is a big part of today’s mental-health conversation, says psychologist, hair stylist, hair historian, and clinical therapist Afiya Mbilishaka, PhD. She’s here to talk about why hair (and caring for it) can be an entry point to mental-health services; why hair loss is so devastating; the importance of hairstylists in Black communities; and what’s really going on when someone gets breakup ban
Ep. 577: Beta Blockers, Caveman Skin & The Week’s Beauty News
Jenn & Jess talk about what went on behind the scenes of this week’s Met Gala. Plus: caveman skin, TikTok’s newest trend (if you can call it that); what all the brides want in their hair this wedding season; new research on glutathione; a life-size scratch-and-sniff marketing campaign; Westman Atelier Bronzing Drops vs. Saie Cream-Balm Bronzer; and some fun Raise A Wands!Episode recap:&nb
Maybe You Should Get That Mole Checked with Dr. Deborah Sarnoff
You know that thing you’ve been meaning to see a dermatologist about? Now is the time to do it, says Deborah Sarnoff, MD, the president of the Skin Cancer Foundation. She’s here to bust some myths about sun protection, share her SPF knowledge, and explain exactly when, why, and how to get a skin check. This interview originally aired in 2019, but the advice and tips are timeless. Episode reca
Ep. 576: Colored Mascara, New Vitamin C Serums & The Week’s Beauty News
Jenn & Julee try to figure out if they are colored-mascara people. But first: A new ($26!) vitamin C serum; the end of the SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic patent; salon owners are predicting a recession; Givaudan’s new Roblox game that teaches players about fragrance; pick-me-up products for pregnant people; a hammam-like shower set; and so much more.Episode recap: fatmascara.com/blog/ep-576Prod
How to Think Positive with Beauty Pioneer Victoria Jackson
Victoria Jackson, the founder of No Makeup Makeup, was the first person to sell beauty via an infomercial. From there she built a makeup empire, became a medical trailblazer, and established a charitable foundation that helps fund research for neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD). We talk to Victoria about her start in makeup, her thoughts on social selling and beauty today, what she lov
Ep. 575: Influencer Troubles, Conservative Beauty Looks & The Week’s Beauty News
Can you really call particular beauty trends conservative or liberal? Jess & Jenn discuss. Plus: Coachella is a wrap; Revolve faces a class action lawsuit for its handling of influencer endorsements; big hair is back; Jess found a facial device that does it all; and Jenn welcomes a very special 10-year-old to the virtual studio to Raise (or Lower?) A Wand.Episode recap: fatmascara.com/blo
Scents and the Soft Life with Sir Candle Man
Kudzi Chikumbu (aka @SirCandleMan), your bougie uncle of fragrance, shares the story of how he became a candle connoisseur. We talk about the $8 candle that he can’t get enough of, wick-trimming, waxes, why he doesn’t believe in a signature scent, the best-smelling hotel in the world, and so much more. Plus: His favorite Bath & Body Works candles and the Loewe candle we agree might be wor
Ep 574: Skin Tech, Tattoourism & The Week’s Beauty News
Garrett joins Jenn in the virtual studio to discuss where beauty culture is headed next: skincare for GLP-1 users; good news in animal testing; the futuristic work of Cornell’s Hybrid Body Lab; the best way to do a “moisture sandwich” to decrease retinoid irritation; and an encapsulated cannabidiol (CBD) cream that prevents UVA-induced damage. We also chat about free tattoos from a hotel chain, ho
Jennifer Aniston, Welcome to Fat Mascara!
Actress, producer, and founder of Lolavie, Jennifer Aniston, is in the studio for a fun and freewheeling chat with Jess and Jenn. We talk about how beauty culture is portrayed in her movies; her first audition; her best and worst haircuts; the ways her mom influenced her health and beauty choices; her dogs; how she decides which brands she wants to work with; and what’s coming next from Lolavie, h
Ep. 573: Southern Hospitality, Meghan Markle’s Makeup & The Week’s Beauty News
We’re on location at Montage Palmetto Bluff, in South Carolina, and sharing tips we learned at our masterclass with facialist Fatma Shaheen, the founder of Skin Design London. Relax with us and learn some techniques for draining your lymphatic fluid and releasing tension in your face. Plus, let’s talk about the beauty products Meghan Markle recommends on her ShopMy page; beauty trends based on pol
Ep. 572: Body Diversity, TikTok Perfumes & Our People Magazine Beauty Podcast Nod
Jess and Jenn get excited about being included as a best podcast nominee in People magazine’s Read Choice Poll, and then there’s lots of beauty news to cover. A new body-diversity report reveals that fashion models are getting skinnier, and the five best-selling perfumes on TikTok may surprise you. Plus, Kim Cattrall’s beauty campaign; changes at Supergroup; the Hairbrained Awards; highlights from
How Not to Smell & Spring Cleaning Tips with Madame Sweat
Why doesn’t natural deodorant always work? How do you prevent bad breath? What’s the best way to clean a mattress? Why do feet get so smelly? Social media sensation Madame Sweat—aka, Mary Further, the founder of Kaia Naturals—is here to answer all those questions. Plus, she explains how she became the internet’s expert on hygiene and etiquette, her favorite ways to fragrance a home, why she uses a
Ep. 571: The Intersection of Beauty & Sports, Arthritis-Friendly Makeup & The Week’s Beauty News
Jenn and Julee talk about all the brands sponsoring women’s sports leagues this year—and the athletes who bring the best looks. Plus, Jenn’s experience at The Othership bathhouse; Julee’s latest celebrity encounter; the FDA’s voluntary recall of acne products due to elevated levels of benzene; a perfume you can lick (if you want to?); a pelvic wellness brand from Diva Cup; the Shark Beauty LED fac
Drag Queen Beauty Secrets with Bianca del Rio
Bianca del Rio, aka Roy Haylock, is a comedian, drag queen, and winner of the sixth season of RuPaul's Drag Race. This is one of Fat Mascara’s first celebrity interviews (it originally aired in 2016) and it’s surprising how relevant it remains today! Bianca talks about how drag culture influences pop and beauty culture, and shares celebrity gossip, beauty tips, and her opinions on everything from
Ep. 570: The White Lotus Look, Breast Implant Sponcon & The Week’s Beauty News
Garrett joins Jenn to discuss the look of the White Lotus ladies—and what the Thai resort where it’s filmed is really like (yes, Garrett visited). Plus, we’re talking about the latest skincare and sunscreen news from the American Academy of Dermatology meeting; Meghan Trainor’s branded content campaign for a breast implant company; multitasking sunscreens; and a low-key amazing pencil for lips and
Perfumer Francis Kurkdjian on Art, Commerce, and Dupe Culture
From his Paris atelier, the mastermind behind Baccarat Rouge 540, Narciso Rodriguez for Her, and Jean Paul Gaultier Le Male dishes on his greatest hits and (a few) misses. Francis Kurkdjian, who co-founded Maison Francis Kurkdjian with Marc Chaya, reveals his unexpected path to perfumery, gets real about dupe culture, and explores the delicate balance of being both an artist and entrepreneur.
Ep. 569: Pat McGrath 2.0, What Greenpoint Smells Like & The Week’s Beauty News
What would a fragrance inspired by your town or neighborhood smell like? Call and let us know: 646-481-8182. Jess & Jenn got the idea to ask you all after discussing Bond No. 9’s new Gerenpoint perfume. We’re also chatting about Pat McGrath’s appointment to La Beauté Louis Vuitton; the polarizing beauty look at Prada’s runway show; writer Ottessa Moshfegh’s high-fashion collaboration; eye
How Dianna Cohen Turned A Hair Obsession Into Crown Affair
Crown Affair’s hair products are in the bathrooms (and kits) of so many people who love and work in the beauty industry. How did that happen? Founder Dianna Cohen is here to explain. She shares lessons she learned working on some of the hottest “millennial” brands of the 2010s (Into The Gloss, Away, Outdoor Voices, Harry’s); why marketing isn’t the most important part of building a brand; the diff
Ep. 568: Makeup-Skincare Hybrids, Aromatherapy At Work & The Week’s Beauty News
Lots of new products (Versed, Rhode, Glow Recipe, Naked Sundays, etc.) claim to be your skincare and makeup in one, but do they really live up to the hype? Jenn hashes it out with Julee. Before that, Julee shares the backstory of a recent cover story she wrote and explains how she ended up modeling for InnBeauty Project’s new campaign. Plus, we’re talking about a perfumed computer mouse, essential
The Benefits of Bathing Culture with Robert Hammond
From saunas and jimjilbang to hammams and temazcales, bathing rituals exist in almost every culture around the world—but they’re still not a regular part of many people’s lives. Robert Hammond, the co-founder of New York City’s High Line and president of Therme Group US, wants to change that. He discusses the history of bathhouses in the modern United States, and explains their physical, social, a
Ep. 567: Listeners on Sephora Tweens, Animal Testing & The Week’s Beauty News
The Fat Mascara family is part of the show this week! Jess & Jenn share listener voicemails discussing Sephora birthday parties and tweens wearing makeup. We also talk about proposed legislation in California to ban the sale of “anti-aging skincare” to children. Plus, why is the FDA insisting that sunscreens in America should be tested on animals? We’ll discuss that, as well as Jess’s recent a
Celebrity Facials, Lymphatic Massage & More with Aesthetician Vanessa Marc
What do Zendaya, Hailee Bieber, Cardi B, and Sara Sampaio have in common? They’ve all put their faces (and bodies!) in the hands of aesthetician Vanessa Marc, the founder of Vanessa Marc Studio in New York City. She joins us to talk about why models and celebrities love her treatments, the special needs of melanin-rich skin, the benefits of lymphatic massage and Colombian wood therapy tools, and h
Ep. 566: Lotion P50 Drama, Big Hair, B Corps & The Week’s Beauty News
People are distraught about the discontinuation of Biologique Recherche’s P50 Lotion (1970 version), but Jenn & Garrett have some replacement suggestions. We’re also talking about Jenn’s filler (Garrett approves!); how teens feel about celebrity beauty brands; hair trends at New York Fashion Week; why Dr. Bronner’s is no longer a B Corp (and what B Corp status even means); and doctors taking O
French Girl Beauty with Violette Serrat
Makeup artist Violette Serrat, the founder of Violette_FR, makes the je ne sais quoi of French Girl beauty and style accessible to everybody. She shares her rebellious approach to makeup, the homeopathic skin drops she uses, why skin needs to rest, the key to good “sex hair,” and why eyeshadow looks better when it’s “slowly dying.” This interview originally aired in 2017 and has been re-edited and
Ep. 565: Drugstore Beauty Shopping, Hair Salon Etiquette & The Week’s Beauty News
Jess & Jenn ponder the future this week! We talk more about kids having birthday parties at beauty stores, and then: why beauty shopping at drugstores is so unpleasant; advice for switching hair stylists; layoffs at Estée Lauder Companies; Paulina Porizkova returning to Lauder; navigating trade shows; manicures featuring NFC (Near-Field Communication) chips; glycolic acid as deodorant (and a n
Hidden Dangers of the Med Spa Industry with Dr. Kate Dee
Are you risking your health at unregulated med spas? Dr. Kate Dee, author of Med Spa Mayhem and owner of Glow Medispa in Seattle, reveals the shocking truth about America's aesthetic clinics. In this episode, she explains how to identify if a med spa is operating legally; the risks of unregulated treatments; and how lasers, cosmetic filler, microneedling, and IV treatments can go wrong. Plus, she
Ep. 564: Sephora Birthday Parties, Renuva & The Week’s Beauty News
Garrett joins Jenn to chat about tweens having birthday parties at Sephora and Glossier stores; a Kiehl’s campaign featuring pubic hair (and the history of the merkin!); body scrubs; bathhouses; perfume-longevity hacks; and a deep dive on Renuva, the newish non-surgical volumizing treatment that’s different than cosmetic filler or fat transfers.Episode recap with links: fatmascara.com/blog/ep
The Truth About Kibbe Body Types with David Kibbe
Image consultant David Kibbe published his cult-classic style guide in the 1980s, and now he’s updated and expanded his philosophy with a new book for a new generation. In this interview, he shares how he became a “style mentor,” how to think about developing your own personal style, the history of seasonal color analysis, why he thinks his image-identity system is so popular on social media—and w
Ep. 563: Before & After Photos, Mood-Boosting Perfume & The Week’s Beauty News
Jenn & Jess welcome FM’s intern, Lexi, to the studio to talk about mood-boosting fragrances and whether or not they work. Before that: How do we all feel about the term “dermorexia”? Plus: Jess shares her adventures in a Parisian flea market; we try an AI-powered skin analysis tool; Coors Light enters the beauty game; one of our listeners gives the best trend analysis we’ve heard yet; we learn
Best of FM: Makeup Artist Laura Mercier
This episode is about so much more than makeup. Celebrity makeup artist and brand founder Laura Mercier shares the story of how she found her purpose and the lessons she learned along the way. We talk about her childhood in France; New York City in the 1990s; her work with Steven Meisel and clients like Madonna and Julia Roberts; the iconic makeup products she’s created; dessert; Buddhism; and so
Ep. 562: Celebrity Encounters, Sephora’s New Store Design & The Week’s Beauty News
Jenn & Julee share their latest beauty adventures: A variety show about bathing culture, meeting Ilana Glazer, and dinner with Dr. Augustinus Bader. Plus: Sephora’s store redesign and new Hulu series; research showing how age affects the way we feel about our beauty products; the scientist turning fatbergs into fragrance; the Beauty Together coalition helping those impacted by L.A. wildfires;
Skincare Supplements & How Diet Affects Beauty with Dr. Rajani Katta
Dermatologist Rajani Katta, MD, explains how vitamins are (and aren’t) regulated, how to judge the safety and efficacy of skincare supplements, and the truth about collagen powders, biotin, vitamin A, and other hair, skin, and nail vitamins. Plus, we learn how your diet affects your skin and hair, which supplements can alter results of medical tests, and how certain foods can help neutralize free
Ep. 561: Bad Bridal Behavior, the Astro Facial & The Week’s Beauty News
A bride sparked debate online for washing off her makeup artist’s work, and Jess & Jenn think there’s something bigger going on. Let’s discuss! Plus: Jess’s facial that doubled as an astrology reading; Jenn’s chrome nails; Ariana Grande thanking Botox; Armani Beauty’s new spokesman; a scientist calls in to teach us about botanical oils in hair care; heated socks for people with Raynaud's syndr
Beauty Trends in South Korea with Jenny Jin
Seoul-based beauty journalist Jenny Jin joins us with a full report on 2025 K-beauty trends and the latest in South Korean beauty culture. We’re talking about her favorite products at Olive Young; Ultherapy, Thermage, Rejuran (and the Skin Botox and Winback treatments she tried); Chahong’s hair perfume; 5X5 Nail Studio; and the Miffy nails she got from Unistela. Plus: Torriden masks, Nonfiction pe
Ep. 560: The Pantene Urban Legend, Facelifts & 2025 Beauty Predictions
Jess & Jenn are talking about “one and done” facelifts, makeup with personality (is Messy Girl the new Clean Girl?), skin tightening, the Lyma at-home laser, the next big fragrance trends, new beauty newsletters, the urban legend that Pantene is bad for hair—and how Alix Earle may have finally put it to rest. Episode recap with links: fatmascara.com/blogep-560Products mentioned in th
Best of FM: Anastasia Soare of Anastasia Beverly Hills
The founder of the Anastasia Beverly Hills has plucked the eyebrows of Jennifer Lopez, Naomi Campbell, and Michelle Obama, but Anastasia Soare’s biggest success is her brand, which is estimated to be worth $500 million. In this interview (which originally aired in 2020), she tells us why she considers herself an example of the “American Dream” and shares how she built her brand, what she wishes mo
How to Shop for Skincare with Cosmetic Chemist Victoria Fu
Learn how to decode a cosmetic ingredient list, which skincare ingredients actually work, and how not to waste money on ineffective products in this interview with Victoria Fu, the co-founder of Chemist Confessions. Plus, she tells us about an AI-discovered molecule that improves skin elasticity and explains how social media causes skincare misinformation to proliferate online. This interview orig
Best of FM: How to Talk to Kids About Beauty with Makeup Artist Jamie Greenberg
In this interview (our most popular of 2024!), we talk to celebrity makeup artist Jamie Greenberg, a mom of three, about a timely topic: How young is too young for makeup and skincare? How can parents encourage self expression without glorifying consumerism? Should adults talk to kids about the downsides of plastic surgery and photo filters? Plus, she shares her makeup tricks for hooded eyeli
Candlemaker Louis Hotchkiss on The Secrets of His Craft
We’re lighting up the holiday season with candlemaker Louis Hotchkiss, the former president of KOBO candles. Here’s here to answer all our candle questions. Which wax burns the cleanest? How do containers, wicks, and fragrances affect burn rate? Why do some wick tips form a mushroom shape after they burn? How can you tell if a candle with have a good scent throw? All that and more. This interview
Best of FM: Hairstylist Nikki Nelms
It’s impossible to listen to Nikki Nelms share her story and not be inspired! The celebrity hairstylist—who’s worked with Beyoncé, Bjork, Janelle Monáe, and others—explains why she doesn’t need mood boards to create hair magic and never “looks to the side” for her ideas. She talks about how she got her start styling hair, the surprising tools and accessories in her kit, how she continues to innova
The Annual Naughty & Nice (But, But, But!) Special
Jenn & Jess reveal the year’s biggest moments in beauty culture—what we loved (nice), hated (naughty) and loved and hated with caveats (but, but, but!). We’re talking about contrast makeup theory; Pantone’s next color of the year; the beauty industry’s use of artificial intelligence; the TikTokification of makeup trends; everybody’s obsession with Lindsay Lohan’s face; influencers making their
The Dark Prince of Perfumery with Douglas Little
Creative director Douglas Little, the perfumer and founder of Heretic Parfums, explains how he taps into his shadow self to fuel creativity. He tells us how the new Nosferatu perfume came to be and shares stories from his collaborations with Gwyneth Paltrow and Dita Von Teese, the lessons he learned from the folding of his first brand, D.L. & Company, and why he’s drawn to “things that go bump
Ep. 559: “Undetectable” Plastic Surgery, Filler Below The Belt & The Week’s Beauty News
There’s so much happening in cosmetic surgery for Jenn & Garrett to discuss: Lindsay Lohan’s new face; politicians getting work done; labia puffs; penis filler; and all the new ways to stop aging (and whether or not to partake or disclose). We also do a live fragrance test of Harry’s new Tamalpais cologne and keep the holiday-candle conversation going with the Fat Mascara Fam, then Garrett exp
The Future of Cosmetic Formulation with Chemist AJ Addae
Cosmetic chemist AJ Addae is the founder of Sula Labs, a company that helps beauty brands develop and test products and ingredients for melanin-rich consumers. She’s here to share her story and talk about the future of sunscreen and clean beauty, how bias affects scientific research, the difference between cosmetics and drugs, exosomes, vitamin C, why she loves sulfur for treating acne, brow lamin
Ep. 558: Dating with Pheromones, Migraine Marketing & The Week’s Beauty News
Jess & Jenn are intrigued by the growing interest in pheromone perfumes. Could they help people find love? Hmm. Plus: L’Oréal’s Louvre tour; investment and acquisition news from Jess’s Business Desk; a rise in products designed to help people who get migraines (aka, migraneurs!); faux candles that don’t look fake; and the anti-frizz treatment spray that made Jenn’s blowout last five days.Episo
Makeup for “Older” Women with Sonia Ramos
Content creator @officiallysoniaramos calls herself a “mature lady” (lol, she’s 46), but her makeup tips work for Gen Z, Boomers, and everybody in between. She explains how (and why) she let her gray hair grow in at 35, why everybody’s getting their concealer wrong, where to put your blush, the power of the double cleanse, and how to look less tired when you’re feeling “busted and crusted.” This e
Ep. 557: Wicked Nails, Botanical Oils & The Week’s Beauty News
Jenn & Julee are in the holiday spirit! Let’s talk about which botanical oils are best for your hair type; why Dax Shepard thought it was okay to ask Cynthia Erivo a *very* personal question about her long nails; the huge rise in applications for dermatology residencies; and which candle says “I’m feeling the holiday season” best. Plus, we raise wands to a room spray that celebrates sanctuarie
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