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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 the latest science update on plant-derived PDRN from peony & rose, discuss the potential impact of molecular weight, and discuss early looks of unique PDRN delivery systems. Let's navigate the complex clinical data behind these DNA fragments and see if they actually match up to the marketing hype.   Products Mentioned: Shop everything mentioned in this video here: https://shopmy.us/collections/4698294 Check out the better oil https://chemistconfessions.com/products/the-better-oil Try our Mr. Reliable https://chemistconfessions.com/products/mr-reliable-lightweight-moisturizer Check out our newly facelifted Double Play Retinol! https://chemistconfessions.com/products/double-play-retinol-face-eye-treatment https://go.shopmy.us/p-51236391 MEDIK8 | Crystal Retinal 6 Serum: https://go.shopmy.us/p-51236422 (use code: CHEMISTCONFESSIONS for 15% off) Shop more of my favorite products here: https://shopmy.us/chemistconfessions   #skincare #skincarescience #pdrnserum #pdrn #salmonpdrn

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 lipid nanovesicles—ranging from 30 to 200 nanometers—function as "biological mail" that triggers collagen synthesis and other regenerative pathways. But do the theories really convert to proven topical benefits? We also tackle one of the most important things you should know about exosomes - sourcing. Does it matter if your exosomes come from humans, plants, or bacteria? And what sort of skin benefits could exosomes provide...if any. Products Mentioned: Shop everything mentioned in this video here: https://shopmy.us/collections/4698294 Check out the better oil https://chemistconfessions.com/products/the-better-oil Try our Mr. Reliable https://chemistconfessions.com/products/mr-reliable-lightweight-moisturizer Check out our newly facelifted Double Play Retinol! https://chemistconfessions.com/products/double-play-retinol-face-eye-treatment https://go.shopmy.us/p-51236391 MEDIK8 | Crystal Retinal 6 Serum: https://go.shopmy.us/p-51236422 (use code: CHEMISTCONFESSIONS for 15% off) Shop more of my favorite products here: https://shopmy.us/chemistconfessions

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 Medik8. We examine the scientific validity of concentration ranges—from the entry-level 0.05% to the more intense 0.24%—and discuss how different textures and price points impact the user experience for various skin types. Whether you are a retinoid rookie or a seasoned pro, we provide the detailed assessment on the data to find the right one for your particular skinario.   Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro 02:18 - Product Aesthetics & Textures 08:35 - Krave Beauty 24 Retinal Decode 10:21 - Prequel Retinal Renewal Decode 15:48 - Celimax Vita-A Retinal Shot Decode 22:00 - Medik8 Crystal Retinal 6 Decode 23:51 - Is Retinal 11x faster than Retinol? 28:39 - Chemists' Favorite Retinal (Personal favorites and usage recommendations)   Products Mentioned: Shop everything mentioned in this video here: https://shopmy.us/collections/4698294 PREQUEL | Retinal Renew Retinaldehyde Gel: https://go.shopmy.us/p-51236222 CELIMAX | The Vita-A Retinal Shot Tightening Booster: https://go.shopmy.us/p-51236269 KRAVEBEAUTY | 24 Carrot Retinal Gentle 0 05 Retinal Serum: https://go.shopmy.us/p-51236391 MEDIK8 | Crystal Retinal 6 Serum: https://go.shopmy.us/p-51236422 (use code: CHEMISTCONFESSIONS for 15% off) Shop more of my favorite products here: https://shopmy.us/chemistconfessions    

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 retinoic acid. We look at the latest clinical evidence to help you decide if it’s time to switch your anti-aging active or stay the course with your current skincare routine. Episode Timestamps 0:00 - Intro: Revisiting the Retinoid Rumor Mill 1:34 - Why Retinal (Retinaldehyde) is Growing in Popularity 2:01 - The Science of Retinoic Acid Conversion Steps 5:30 - What the Data Shows (Retinol vs. Retinal ex vivo Conversion) 9:15 - Retinal vs. Retinol: Potency & Efficacy Realities 14:40 - Is Retinal Actually Gentler? (Irritation & Skin Barrier) 18:20 - Debunking High-Concentration Retinoid Myths 23:55 - Reviewing Recent Retinal Product Launches 28:10 - How to Choose: Retinol or Retinal for your Skin Type? 36:22 - Final Verdict: Should You Switch Your Active? Resources & Mentions Retinal vs Retinol on the CC Blog: https://chemistconfessions.com/blogs/retinal-is-it-better-than-retinol Retinol vs Tretinoin: https://chemistconfessions.com/blogs/tretinoin-vs-retinol Follow us on IG : @chemist.confessions #chemistconfessions #retinal #retinol #skincarescience #antiaging #retinaldehyde #skincareroutine

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, Symwhite, etc. —from S-Tier (Gold Standard) to Tier “Meh.” We also filter through the 18 products we tested down to the ones we think should be on your radar and warn you about "Niacinamide Overload." Timestamps: 0:00 - Intro: Our Hyperpigmentation Journey Recap 1:34 - How to Build a Hyperpigmentation Routine Framework 3:37 - S-Tier Actives: The Most Effective Brightening Ingredients 5:44 - A-Tier: Reliable, Well-Tested Actives for Dark Spots 7:12 - B-Tier: Decent but with some caveats 10:23 - C-Tier & "Meh" 14:17 - Top Product Recommendations: which ones should you actually try? 21:07 - The Niacinamide Math: Avoid Potential Skin Irritation from Overlayering Product Links LA ROCHE-POSAY | Mela B3 Dark Spot Serum with Melasyl + Niacinamide: https://go.shopmy.us/p-47880551 (use code: CHEMISTCONFESSIONS10 for 10% off) EUCERIN | Radiant Tone Dual Serum Dark Spot Corrector: https://go.shopmy.us/p-47881019 ULTA | The Alpha-Arbutin 2 Discoloration Care Serum: https://go.shopmy.us/p-49134844 ANUA | Azelaic Acid 10 Hyaluron Redness Soothing Serum: https://go.shopmy.us/p-49134854 PAULA'S CHOICE | 25% Vitamin C + Glutathione Clinical Serum: https://go.shopmy.us/p-49134896 Numbuzin Glutahione TXA Advanced Dark Spot Ampoule Concentrate: https://go.shopmy.us/p-49134975 Shop more of my favorite products here: https://shopmy.us/chemistconfessions

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? https://chemistconfessions.com/blogs/controversy-corner-do-we-absorb-sunscreen-filters-into-our-bloodstreams  Follow us: IG:   / chemist.confessions   INTERWEB: https://chemistconfessions.com/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@chemistconfes... Skincare questions for the podcast? Leave your question in the comments and it could be featured in our next episode! #chemistconfessions #skincarescience #chemistconfessionspodcast #skincarehack

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 like designer peels and acne prescriptions, and why the industry has shifted toward modern derivatives to avoid skin irritation. 00:21 | Part 2: Continuing our Resorcinol Series  00:35 | What is Hexylresorcinol?  00:49 | Hexylresorcinol vs. 2% Hydroquinone: The Study Breakdown  01:07 | Testing Parameters: 1% Hexylresorcinol Concentration  01:37 | Analyzing the Results: Expert Grading and Data  01:53 | 12-Week Results: Significant Improvements in Pigmentation  02:03 | Comparing Performance to Hydroquinone  25:22 | Major Formulation Challenges with Resorcinols 25:33 | Conclusion and What’s Coming Next Do We Absorb Sunscreen Filters into Our Bloodstreams? https://chemistconfessions.com/blogs/controversy-corner-do-we-absorb-sunscreen-filters-into-our-bloodstreams  Follow us: IG:   / chemist.confessions   INTERWEB: https://chemistconfessions.com/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@chemistconfes... Skincare questions for the podcast? Leave your question in the comments and it could be featured in our next episode! #chemistconfessions #skincarescience #chemistconfessionspodcast #skincarehack

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 like designer peels and acne prescriptions, and why the industry has shifted toward modern derivatives to avoid skin irritation. 01:28 | What is resorcinol?  01:50 | Resorcinol in acne treatments and designer peels  02:13 | Why is resorcinol used in hair dyes?  02:33 | The shift toward resorcinol derivatives for skin safety  02:54 | EU SCC regulations on resorcinol concentrations  22:30 | Hyperpigmentation serum scenarios and skin discomfort 23:05 | Preview: Hexylresorcinol and Diamond Oil Do We Absorb Sunscreen Filters into Our Bloodstreams? https://chemistconfessions.com/blogs/controversy-corner-do-we-absorb-sunscreen-filters-into-our-bloodstreams  Follow us: IG:   / chemist.confessions   INTERWEB: https://chemistconfessions.com/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@chemistconfes... Skincare questions for the podcast? Leave your question in the comments and it could be featured in our next episode! #chemistconfessions #skincarescience #chemistconfessionspodcast #skincarehack

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 | Welcome back to Chemist Confessions Podcast 00:30 | Glutathione deep dive follow-up 00:56 | Product lineup: 4 K-beauty + 1 Paula’s Choice 02:05 | Price points & supply differences 03:40 | Texture notes: neutral, not hydrating 05:03 | Fragrance issues & masking glutathione scent 06:05 | Stability concerns & 2-week shelf life 07:23 | Paula’s Choice texture & film discussion 08:25 | The infamous “eggy with undertone of death” scent 10:16 | Clinical claims & before/after photos skepticism 12:04 | Niacinamide + tranexamic acid doing the heavy lifting 17:57 | Tulsa Wound serum: 2% glutathione, suspicious photos 21:03 | Abib serum: percentages, encapsulation, and clinical data Product Shoutout: Double Play Retinol Face and Eye Treatment: https://chemistconfessions.com/products/double-play-retinol-face-eye-treatment Enrichment Content: Sunscreen Layering Guide https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IQ0Dlb0WXvc Do We Absorb Sunscreen Filters into Our Bloodstreams? https://chemistconfessions.com/blogs/controversy-corner-do-we-absorb-sunscreen-filters-into-our-bloodstreams  Follow us: IG:   / chemist.confessions   INTERWEB: https://chemistconfessions.com/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@chemistconfes... Skincare questions for the podcast? Leave your question in the comments and it could be featured in our next episode! #chemistconfessions #skincarescience #chemistconfessionspodcast #skincarehack    

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 | Mechanisms: Tyrosinase inhibition and skin whitening  03:16 | The Stability Struggle: Why pH and temperature matter  06:18 | Half-life study: How quickly does it degrade in your products?  08:12 | Gold Standard Age Booster: Tactical hyperpigmentation tool  08:40 | Does it actually work? Reviewing topical clinical studies  12:35 | Study Deep Dive: 0.5% GSH vs. placebo on Indonesian women  17:36 | Oxidized Glutathione (GSSG): Is a more stable version better? Product Shoutout: Double Play Retinol Face and Eye Treatment: https://chemistconfessions.com/products/double-play-retinol-face-eye-treatment Enrichment Content: Sunscreen Layering Guide https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IQ0Dlb0WXvc Do We Absorb Sunscreen Filters into Our Bloodstreams? https://chemistconfessions.com/blogs/controversy-corner-do-we-absorb-sunscreen-filters-into-our-bloodstreams  Follow us: IG:   / chemist.confessions   INTERWEB: https://chemistconfessions.com/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@chemistconfes... Skincare questions for the podcast? Leave your question in the comments and it could be featured in our next episode! #chemistconfessions #skincarescience #chemistconfessionspodcast #skincarehack

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 Analysis: Why is Arbutin so Sticky? 03:01 | Texture Face-Off: Oily vs. Dry Skin Reactions 04:48 | Is the Beauty of Joseon Serum a Moisturizer? 06:01 | Chemist Notes: Breaking Down the Cosrx Formula 06:57 | Analyzing Clinical Claims: Inner and Outer Melanin? 09:57 | Instrumental Measurements: Reducing Dark Spots 13:01 | Deep Dive: Beauty of Joseon Ingredients 14:56 | The Truth About "Pregnancy Safe" Marketing 16:25 | The Ordinary & Naturium: Simple Serum Breakdown Product Shoutout: Double Play Retinol Face and Eye Treatment: https://chemistconfessions.com/products/double-play-retinol-face-eye-treatment Enrichment Content: Sunscreen Layering Guide https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IQ0Dlb0WXvc Do We Absorb Sunscreen Filters into Our Bloodstreams? https://chemistconfessions.com/blogs/controversy-corner-do-we-absorb-sunscreen-filters-into-our-bloodstreams  Follow us: IG:   / chemist.confessions   INTERWEB: https://chemistconfessions.com/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@chemistconfes... Skincare questions for the podcast? Leave your question in the comments and it could be featured in our next episode! #chemistconfessions #skincarescience #chemistconfessionspodcast #skincarehack

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 for these products.     Product Shoutout: Double Play Retinol Face and Eye Treatment: https://chemistconfessions.com/products/double-play-retinol-face-eye-treatment Enrichment Content: Sunscreen Layering Guide https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IQ0Dlb0WXvc Do We Absorb Sunscreen Filters into Our Bloodstreams? https://chemistconfessions.com/blogs/controversy-corner-do-we-absorb-sunscreen-filters-into-our-bloodstreams  Follow us: IG:   / chemist.confessions   INTERWEB: https://chemistconfessions.com/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@chemistconfes... Skincare questions for the podcast? Leave your question in the comments and it could be featured in our next episode! #chemistconfessions #skincarescience #chemistconfessionspodcast #skincarehack

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 solubility.  We provide a chemist’s perspective on how to choose the right formula for your skincare routine. 00:00 | Introducing K-Beauty Azelaic Acid Contenders   00:02 | The "Ouch" Factor: Testing medicube’s Needle Technology  00:04 | Sensation vs. Science: Do Spicules Improve Penetration?   00:05 | Texture Breakdown: Puridose Oil Droplets vs. Anua Watery Serum   00:08 | Decoding Ingredient Lists: Tea Tree Oil vs. Leaf Water   00:13 | Analyzing Anua’s Clinical Studies for Redness Reduction   00:18 | Is 4-Week Acne Testing Actually Meaningful?   00:23 | Bacterial Exosomes and the Future of Skincare Sourcing   00:29 | Chemist Corner: The Difficulty of Azelaic Acid Solubility   00:32 | Final Verdict: Choosing Suspensions vs. Soluble Formulas

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 08:12 | Deep Dive: Azelaic Acid vs. Hydroquinone 12:50 | The Challenge of Finding Full Research Papers 18:30 | Patient Compliance: The 16-Week Milestone 22:15 | Why Visual Improvements Take Time 27:00 | Analyzing Study Abstracts vs. Full Data 31:10 | Dual Therapy Overkill: 5% Concentration Discussion 31:50 | Motivation and Routine Consistency for Results Product Shoutout: Double Play Retinol https://chemistconfessions.com/products/double-play-retinol-face-eye-treatment Enrichment Content: Chemists’ Guide to Choosing an Exfoliating Toner https://chemistconfessions.com/blogs/how-to-choose-the-right-exfoliating-toner-for-your-skin Follow us: IG:   / chemist.confessions   INTERWEB: https://chemistconfessions.com/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@chemistconfes... Skincare questions for the podcast? Leave your question in the comments and it could be featured in our next  

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 Light as Air Sunscreen and the La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Sunscreen, and of course, Animal Corner! Timestamps:  00:00 | Welcome to Chemist Confessions Podcast & Year-End Review 01:07 | How Many Skincare Products Did We Test in 2025? (103 products!) 03:55 | Favorite Skincare Product Categories We Tested This Year 07:27 | What is Our Least Favorite Skincare Product Category? 10:07 | Why is K-Beauty C-Fu Dupe Testing Boring? 12:21 | Most Surprising Skincare Category: Cleansing Oils & Hypochlorite Acid 18:11 | Best Product of the Year: Banana Boat Light As Air Sunscreen Review 21:48 | Worst Product of the Year: La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Sunscreen Pill Test 25:54 | Most Surprising Product: What is A0X or 2X Intense? 28:17 | Are Cushion Foundations Good Sunscreens? Tarte Cushion Review 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 Recommended 30 for 30 Sunscreens 2025 *a small portion of your purchase through these links goes to feeding a chemist. https://shopmy.us/collections/1766357 Product Shoutout: Blank Slate Gentle Gel Cleanser https://chemistconfessions.com/products/blank-slate-cleanser Enrichment Content: Sunscreen Layering Guide https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IQ0Dlb0WXvc Do We Absorb Sunscreen Filters into Our Bloodstreams? https://chemistconfessions.com/blogs/controversy-corner-do-we-absorb-sunscreen-filters-into-our-bloodstreams  Follow us: IG:   / chemist.confessions   INTERWEB: https://chemistconfessions.com/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@chemistconfes... Skincare questions for the podcast? Leave your question in the comments, and it could be featured in our next episode! #chemistconfessions  #skincarescience  #chemistconfessionspodcast  #skincarehacks