361. "Hydration Hacking" Explained: Myths, Facts & What Works for Skin

Spring cleaning isn’t just for your wardrobe – your skincare shelf deserves a reset, too. In this Expert episode, Sadaf and Tegan show you how to declutter, swap, and reset your beauty routine without spending a cent. From spotting expired products (yes, your mascara probably needs to be tossed) to smart seasonal swaps and beauty editor-approved hacks, this is your no-cost guide to starting fresh for spring. We also tackle a very relatable Adore Anonymous on just how long you can stretch out your washes with dry shampoo, plus a juicy Win, Bin or Recycle on whether it’s ever okay to dip into your Airbnb host’s products. Everything Mentioned: Dermal Therapy Heel Balm Platinum - Adore Beauty AB LAB by Adore Beauty Dewy-C Luminous Moisturiser 50ml with Vitamin C and Ceramides Cosmedix Skin Thirst Moisturising Hyaluronic Acid Cream 60ml  I Have Dehydrated Combination Skin & This Moisturiser Gave Me My Glow Back Alpha-H Illuminating Enzyme Polish with Native Rosella Flower 50g Aspect Fruit Enzyme Mask 50g  K18 Airwash Dry Shampoo K18 Peptide Detox Shampoo 250ml Credits: Hosts: Tegan Mac and Sadaf Razi Producer: Jasmine Riley For more beauty insights and exclusive offers, visit adorebeauty.com.au Disclaimer | Privacy Policy Adore Beauty acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and podcast. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on Uncensored, Mel makes the case for the best part of any night out: the girls’ getting-ready hour. Then, we dive into Renee Rapp’s viral lip combo and talk “nipple-matching” our lipstick shades. Yes, really. Then we’re joined by Dr Devini Ameratunga for PCOS Awareness Month. She breaks down what PCOS actually is, the different types, how it shows up in skin and hair, and what treatments and supports really make a difference. If you’ve ever felt confused about PCOS, this chat is a must-listen. And finally, in Stuff We Love, we’re all about K-Beauty staples: from lightweight lotions to juicy ceramide lip essences. We wrap things up with a hot topic from Europe: the EU’s recent ban on certain gel nail polish ingredients, and why BIAB is different. Everything mentioned: Renee Rapp "Is Nothing" Without This Lip Combo - YouTube MAKE UP FOR EVER Artist Color Pencil Extreme (Wherever Walnut) L'Oreal Paris Plump Ambition Hyaluron Lip Oil (Wine O’Clock) Palladio Lip Stain (Mocha Cream) - Amazon Anua Heartleaf 70% Daily Lotion Laneige Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Cream 50ml Mediheal Teatree Trouble Pad Torriden Solid-In Ceramide Lip Essence https://www.russh.com/tpo-gel-nail-polish-ban-explained/ Submit your Beauty IQ Hotline questions and Build My Cart challenges for Hannah and Mel @adorebeauty on IG. Join the conversation in our Beauty IQ Uncensored Facebook Group to discuss this episode, swap beauty tips, and submit your questions for future shows. Credits: Hosts: Hannah Furst and Melissa Mason Producer: Jasmine Riley For more beauty insights and exclusive offers, visit adorebeauty.com.au Disclaimer | Privacy Policy Adore Beauty acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and podcast. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on Expert, Skin Therapist Tegan and co-host Sadaf are diving into one of 2025’s biggest beauty trends: hydration hacking. From electrolyte powders on your desk to “injectable moisturisers,” we’re breaking down what actually keeps your skin plump, dewy, and healthy – and what’s just clever marketing. We unpack: The difference between hydration, moisture, and barrier repair (and why it matters) Electrolyte powders, collagen blends, and injectables like Profhilo – are they worth it? The truth about hyaluronic acid, moisture sandwiching, and slugging Lifestyle factors you might be overlooking that leave skin parched In Win, Bin or Recycle, we debate baby powder after a shower. In Adore Anonymous, we answer a listener’s question about how many skincare steps you actually need (hint: it’s not ten). Everything mentioned: K18 HeatBounce Conditioning Heat Protectant SkinCeuticals HA Intensifier Vida Glow Pro Collagen + Sodii Everyday Hydration Salts - Tub - Unflavoured Vitadrop Rapid Hydration Sugar Free - 30 Serves Laneige Cream Skin Cerapeptide™ Whether you’re team serum, powder, or slugging, this episode will help you cut through the noise and get to the heart of what really hydrates skin. Credits: Hosts: Tegan Mac and Sadaf Razi Producer: Jasmine Riley For more beauty insights and exclusive offers, visit adorebeauty.com.au Disclaimer | Privacy Policy Adore Beauty acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and podcast. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mel is back from maternity leave, and we have much to catch up on in this week's Uncensored episode – but first, we need to know everything about her new baby, Joey. First up in Trending, we’re asking: Is shopping IRL making a comeback? From Adore Beauty's physical store rollout to the revival of Chadstone and Chatswood Chase, we unpack why physical retail is booming again and what it says about the way we shop in 2025. In Build My Cart, listener Rhianna asked us to curate the ultimate beginner’s makeup kit for a natural, glowy look. Then, we're sharing the beauty creators and experts inspiring us right now for Stuff We Love. Finally, we unpack TikTok’s “Australian 10” trend. What even is the Australian beauty aesthetic? Slicked-back buns, bronzed skin, dewy glow?? We’ve got thoughts. Everything mentioned: 2025 Customer Shopping Behaviors & Purchase Trends in Australia | Resonate CX MCoBeauty Flawless Glow Luminous Skin Filter IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream SPF50 Huda Beauty #Fauxfilter Luminous Matte Liquid Concealer MCoBeauty Brighten & Perfect Cream Concealer MAKE UP FOR EVER HD Skin Face Essentials Palette H2 Benefit Cosmetics Hoola Powder Bronzer MCoBeauty Miracle Flawless Pressed Powder Torriden Solid-In Ceramide Lip Essence IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye Illuminating Anti-aging Concealer Huda Beauty GloWish Luminous Pressed Powder Clinique Black Honey MirandaNP  Natalie O’Neill  I Am Boho Blonde Dr Rosh Evan Rieder MD   Barefaced Media Maddie Edwards Lab Muffin Hannah Collingwood English Alicia Bhojwani Dewy dudes Lucy Neville Submit your Beauty IQ Hotline questions and Build My Cart challenges for Hannah and Mel @adorebeauty on IG. Join the conversation in our Beauty IQ Uncensored Facebook Group to discuss this episode, swap beauty tips, and submit your questions for future shows. Credits: Hosts: Hannah Furst and Melissa Mason Producer: Jasmine Riley For more beauty insights and exclusive offers, visit adorebeauty.com.au Disclaimer | Privacy Policy Adore Beauty acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and podcast. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on Expert, we’re asking the question filling your feeds: is hypochlorous acid just fancy water in a spray bottle, or a legit skin saviour? Before we get into that, we kick things off with Win, Bin or Recycle, where gel toenail extensions are on the chopping block. Worth it or nah? Then, in our deep dive, we break down everything you need to know about hypochlorous acid: the antibacterial, anti-inflammatory ingredient your own body naturally makes. We cover why it’s trending right now, how it helps with acne, eczema, and barrier support, and whether it belongs in your routine. Plus, we compare Tower 28’s cult SOS Spray to Qure’s Dermal Mist (our Adore pick), and share exactly when and how to use it. In Adore Anonymous, we answer a listener’s SOS: how to deal with post-acne dark marks (spoiler: niacinamide is a great start, but pigment blockers are key, and you have to stop picking!). Everything Mentioned: Hailey Bieber opens up about her perioral dermatitis—and shares exactly how she deals with a flare up  Acne, Rosacea or Pigmentation? You Need to Know About Azelaic Acid Qure Dermal Mist The Duct-Tape Of Skincare; Here's Why Hypochlorous Acid Mists Are Going Viral The Ordinary’s Niacinamide Is the First Product That Really Transformed My Skin Credits: Hosts: Tegan Mac and Sadaf Razi Producer: Jasmine Riley For more beauty insights and exclusive offers, visit adorebeauty.com.au Disclaimer | Privacy Policy Adore Beauty acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and podcast. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on Uncensored, Mel’s out battling post-partum hives (sending all the thoughts and prayers), so Producer Jas is back with Hannah. We kick things off with Cringey Convo, diving into a topic you didn’t know you were secretly obsessed with: how to properly clean your shower. From tiles and glass to grout and silicone, we share the simplest hacks for keeping everything sparkling, plus tips for tackling stubborn mould, limescale, soap scum, and preventing buildup before it starts. Next, in On My Shelf, we sit down with Carla Oates, founder of The Beauty Chef, to talk about how gut health really drives glowing skin. Carla opens up about her daily rituals, kitchen and bathroom staples, the science behind the microbiome, and how her wellness and beauty routine has evolved over the years. Finally, in Stuff We Love, MAC Cosmetics is having a moment (thanks, Elizabeth Cee!). We revisit timeless classics like Extra Dimension Eye Shadow, Studio Fix Fluid, and Strobe Cream, and share the very first MAC products we ever bought with our own hard-earned cash. Everything Mentioned: https://www.tiktok.com/@spotoncleaningsydney/video/7141688219103464705 The Beauty Chef Glow® The Beauty Chef Glow Ageless™ Top MAC Cosmetics Favorites for Makeup Lovers | TikTok M.A.C Cosmetics Extra Dimension Eye Shadow Studio Face and Body Foundation 120ml M.A.C Cosmetics Studio Fix Fluid SPF15 30ml M.A.C Cosmetics Strobe Cream M.A.C Cosmetics Macximal Sleek Satin Lipstick (Morange) M.A.C COSMETICS Eyeshadow (Mulch) Submit your Beauty IQ Hotline questions and Build My Cart challenges for Hannah and Mel @adorebeauty on IG. Join the conversation in our Beauty IQ Uncensored Facebook Group to discuss this episode, swap beauty tips, and submit your questions for future shows. Credits: Hosts: Hannah Furst and Melissa Mason Producer: Jasmine Riley For more beauty insights and exclusive offers, visit adorebeauty.com.au Disclaimer | Privacy Policy Adore Beauty acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and podcast. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You’ve layered on dark spot serums and SPF like it’s your full-time job… and yet those spots are still hanging around. Why is pigmentation so stubborn, and what can skincare actually do about it? In this episode of Expert, we break down everything you need to know about treating pigmentation, from sun damage, hormonal changes, PIH, and melasma, to figuring out which type you have. We cover which serums really work, when to consider in-clinic treatments like lasers or peels, and the top ingredients to fade dark spots, including vitamin C, tranexamic acid, azelaic acid, retinoids, and kojic acid. We also discuss why pigmentation can recur, the actual timeframe for results, and share tried-and-tested product recommendations for every budget, including favourites from Dermalogica, Ole Henriksen, Cosmedix, Société, Osmosis, and L’Oréal Paris (all linked below). Plus, in Win, Bin or Recycle, we ask if face cupping is trend or trash, and in Adore Anonymous, we answer: tranexamic acid vs. azelaic acid: Can you actually use them together? Everything Mentioned: L'Occitane Almond Shower Oil 500ml PCA Skin Body Therapy 206.5ml mesoestetic mesoprotech melan 130 pigment control 50ml L’Oreal Paris Bright Reveal Dark Spot Face Serum 30ml Ole Henriksen Glow2OH Dark Spot Toner 190ml Osmosis Perfection Pigment Corrector Dermalogica Powerbright Dark Spot Peel Société Even Out Dark Spot Corrector Cosmedix Simply Brilliant 24/7 Brightening Serum Acne, Rosacea or Pigmentation? You Need to Know About Azelaic Acid Credits: Hosts: Tegan Mac and Sadaf Razi Producer: Jasmine Riley For more beauty insights and exclusive offers, visit adorebeauty.com.au Disclaimer | Privacy Policy Adore Beauty acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and podcast. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on Uncensored, Producer Jas joins us to talk 9D Breathwork: an emerging, multi-sensory wellness practice combining conscious breathing, soundscapes, and subconscious programming to unlock emotional release. From intense physical sensations to deep emotional catharsis, she shares what it’s like and who might benefit from this unconventional wellness tool. In Build My Cart, we curate the ultimate bridal beauty bag for your wedding day, covering powder, lips, blush, brows, and hair essentials to keep you fresh and camera-ready. In Stuff We Love, we talk body care: pregnancy-safe favourites, indulgent serums, moisturisers, and luxe shower oils, plus budget-friendly and splurge-worthy options inspired by Miranda NP’s viral TikTok routine. Everything Mentioned: 9D Breathwork MAKE UP FOR EVER HD Skin Perfecting Loose Powder 4g Skoop Skincare Babe Blotter, Blotting Paper M.A.C Cosmetics Lip Pencil (Whirl or Stripdown) MAKE UP FOR EVER Artist Color Pencil Huda Beauty Liquid Matte Ultra-Comfort Transfer-Proof Lipstick Ole Henriksen Pout Preserve Peptide Lip Treatment  Benefit Gimme Brow + Mini Volumizing Gel  Benefit Hoola Mini  MCoBeauty Miracle Flawless Pressed Powder Oribe Dry Texturising Spray Travel Size I’m a Makeup Artist and Here’s What to Pack for Event and Bridal Touch-Ups https://www.tiktok.com/@np.miranda?lang=en  Ultimate Evening Self-Care Routine: Everything Shower & Skincare Routine | TikTok  The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 0.5% Body Serum - 240mL The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner 240ml The Ordinary Niacinamide 5% Face and Body Emulsion - 100mL CeraVe Moisturising Lotion CeraVe SA Renewing Foot Cream 88ml Alpha-H Retinol Reboot Exfoliating Body Treatment  Alpha-H Firming Peptide Body Oil with Hexapeptide-8 100ml Alpha-H Daily Dose Multivitamin Body Serum 150ml Bioderma Atoderm Ultra-Nourishing Cleansing Shower Oil 200ml CeraVe Advanced Repair Balm Bali Body AntiOxidant Body Whip Aesop Geranium Leaf Body Cleanser Molton Brown Orange & Bergamot Hand Lotion 300ml Molton Brown Orange & Bergamot Fine Liquid Hand Wash 300ml L'Occitane Almond Whipped Shower Cream 200ML Submit your Beauty IQ Hotline questions and Build My Cart challenges for Hannah and Mel @adorebeauty on IG. Join the conversation in our Beauty IQ Uncensored Facebook Group to discuss this episode, swap beauty tips, and submit your questions for future shows. Credits: Hosts: Hannah Furst and Melissa Mason Producer: Jasmine Riley For more beauty insights and exclusive offers, visit adorebeauty.com.au Disclaimer | Privacy Policy Adore Beauty acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and podcast. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on Expert, we’re tackling one of the most-Googled beauty questions ever: Can you actually shrink your pores? From viral clay masks to pore-blurring primers, we’ve all been tempted by products promising “poreless” skin, but how much of that is marketing, and how much is science? Jas shares her latest VISIA scan results post-treatments (spoiler: she's a time traveller), before we dive into: What really determines pore size (genetics, oil flow, collagen levels) Why pores sometimes look larger, and how to prevent it The skincare ingredients worth adding to your routine (retinol, niacinamide, AHAs, salicylic acid) In-clinic treatments that actually help (and the ones to avoid) Affordable pore-refining products under $100 that really deliver We also settle the debate on whether blackhead vacuums and pore strips help or harm (hint: your barrier will thank you if you skip them). Plus, in Win, Bin or Recycle, we ask: are bandage dresses back… and are they a recession indicator? And in Adore Anonymous, an exfoliation dilemma: if your cleanser already has acids, is it double-exfoliating to use another? If you’ve ever zoomed in on your nose and wished your pores would disappear, this episode will reset your expectations and give you the best tools to refine, smooth, and keep your skin healthy long-term. Everything Mentioned: Are bandage dresses a recession indicator? https://www.instagram.com/p/DLPw3H2NYnl/?hl=en&img_index=1  Cosmedix Define Age-Defying Treatment Cosmedix Opti Crystal- Liquid Crystal Eye Serum Aspect Pigment Punch+ 30ml Benefit POREfessional Primer Australia Medik8 Pore Cleanse Gel Intense Medicube Zero Pore Cream Murad Blemish Control Clarifying Toner 180m Credits: Hosts: Tegan Mac and Sadaf Razi Producer: Jasmine Riley For more beauty insights and exclusive offers, visit adorebeauty.com.au Disclaimer | Privacy Policy Adore Beauty acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and podcast. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on Uncensored, we’re diving into all the beauty basics you didn’t know you needed (plus a few you definitely did). First up, Top 3: we count down the most-coveted scalp scrubs, why they’re so good for hair health, and which ones really deliver clean, flake-free, stronger, and shinier hair. Next, in Beauty IQ Hotline, we turn our attention to our nails. Builder Gel, Gel X, or SNS: Which one lasts, which one damages your nails less, and which is worth your money? Jas and Hannah break down wear time, maintenance, and salon costs so you can pick the perfect manicure for any occasion (wedding trials included). Finally, in Stuff We Love, we dig into pregnancy-safe skincare. From serums to SPF, facials to Botox alternatives, we explore what’s genuinely safe, what to avoid, and tips for keeping your skin glowing and comfortable during pregnancy. Plus, Hannah's must-have products that actually work. Everything Mentioned: UNIQLO: C Sweat Wide Pants Kmart Long Sleeve Top and Pants Comfort Pyjama Set Kérastase Symbiose Micro-Exfoliating Cellular Treatment 200ml | Anti-Dandruff Bondi Boost Pink Salt Scalp Scrub - 250ml Christophe Robin Cleansing Purifying Scrub with Sea Salt 250ml Skin Care, Hair Care and Cosmetic Treatments in Pregnancy and Breastfeeding asap N20 peptide complex The Ordinary Argireline 10% Solution Medik8 Liquid Peptides Drone-Targeted Peptide Complex 30ml COSRX The 6 Peptide Skin Booster Serum 150ml Alpha-H Liquid Gold Ultra Violette Future Fluid SPF 50+ Superlight Mineral SKINSCREEN™ Dermal Therapy Eczema & Dermatitis Cream  Submit your Beauty IQ Hotline questions and Build My Cart challenges for Hannah and Mel @adorebeauty on IG. Join the conversation in our Beauty IQ Uncensored Facebook Group to discuss this episode, swap beauty tips, and submit your questions for future shows. Credits: Hosts: Hannah Furst and Melissa Mason Producer: Jasmine Riley For more beauty insights and exclusive offers, visit adorebeauty.com.au Disclaimer | Privacy Policy Adore Beauty acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and podcast. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.