Breaking Beauty Podcast

What if your best skin ever had nothing to do with Botox, fillers or even fancy skincare? This week we welcome Dr. Tia Paul, a Harvard- and MIT-trained, board-certified dermatologist—and major skin laser aficionado. As the founder of Balanced Skin Dermatology and Aesthetics in Newport Beach, California, Dr. Paul treats everything from acne, hyperpigmentation, eczema and psoriasis to skin cancer and she has earned over 400K followers on social media.

Tune in to find out how to achieve glass skin the non-gimmicky way, as Dr. Paul reveals everything to know about the most effective at-home brightening solutions, how-to navigate the world of professional lasers, and the “pyramid” framework she designed for a brighter skin game plan that won’t shock your skin or your credit card.

In this episode, we discuss:

Hydroquinone, tranexamic acid, azelaic acid, niacinamide — the new rules for skin brightening skincare in 2026
Lasers 101 — the difference between ablative and non-ablative lasers, vascular lasers and why the term “laser” itself is one of the most misused words in the beauty industry
What is laser “stacking” and why Dr. Paul says that combining technologies is where you get the best results
What’s all the fuss about Xerf? The new tightening device that's giving people snatched jawlines with zero downtime — Dr. Paul shares her experience.
Myth or reality? The truth about lasers on skin of colour — and what to ask before your appointment
Why the Fitzpatrick scale is outdated — according to Dr. Paul — and what she thinks should replace it to treat a full range of skin tones
Dr. Paul’s go-to’s: The laser that she personally swears by for glass skin, and the favourite sunscreen the derm will be using to maintain clear skin results all summer long
Disclaimer: Please note the discussion in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Get social with us and let us know what you think of the episode! Find us on Instagram, Tiktok,X, Threads. Join our private Facebook group. Or give us a call and leave us a voicemail at 1-844-227-0302. Sign up for our Substack here. Subscribe to our YouTube Channel to watch our episodes!

For any products or links mentioned in this episode, check out our website: https://breakingbeautypodcast.com/episode-recaps/

Related episodes like this:

K-Beauty Secrets: Dermatologist Dr. David Kim on Salmon DNA, Glass Skin & Anti-Aging
Stress and Your Skin: Decoded with Dr. Amy Wechsler
Skincare Terms to Know Before Your Next Dermatologist Visit with Dr. Samantha Ellis

PROMO CODES: When you support our sponsors, you support the creation of Breaking Beauty Podcast!

One Skin
Born from over a decade of longevity research, OneSkin’s OS-01 Peptide™ is proven to target the visible signs of aging, helping you unlock your healthiest skin now and as you age. For a limited time, try OneSkin with 15% off using code BREAKINGBEAUTY at oneskin.co/BREAKINGBEAUTY. After you purchase, they’ll ask you where you heard about them. PLEASE support our show and tell them we sent you.

Qualia Life Sciences
Experience the most trusted magnesium for purity, potency, and performance. Plus it’s non-GMO, vegan and gluten-free making it a choice you can feel good about. Go to qualialife.com/BEAUTY for 50% off. And here’s a bonus, use the code BEAUTY for an additional 15% off your order. Thanks to Qualia for sponsoring this episode!

Quince
Elevate your summer wardrobe. Go to Quince.com/breakingbeauty for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too.

Dove
Discover the new Dove Serum+ Oil Body Wash — available in “Radiance” with notes of jojoba and monoi flower and “Soothing” with almond oil and sandalwood — at www.dove.com/ca. Now available on Amazon and in stores nationwide.

*Disclaimer: Unless otherwise stated, all products reviewed are gratis media samples submitted for editorial consideration.*

Hosts: Carlene Higgins and Jill Dunn
Theme song, used with permission: Cherry Bomb by Saya

Produced by Dear Media Studio
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The #DamnGood K-beauty revolution is officially landing in North America! This week, we’re going deep into the highly anticipated US arrival of Korea’s mega beauty retailer, Olive Young with its first outpost in Los Angeles. From the massive grand opening in Pasadena to our curated edit of the best-selling products you need to add to your online cart, this is your ultimate guide to navigating the highly-anticipated K-beauty mecca.
In this episode, you’ll hear about:
Olive Young 101:The scoop on everything you need to know about the mega-retailer’s LA flagship openings, including what you will and won’t be able to buy.
*The* top 10 bestsellers: We break down the official Olive Young best-sellers data, from the cult-favorite Mediheal sheet masks you already know to the get-it-now products you haven’t discovered yet.
Our next obsession—K-Hair: We reveal the bonding hair masks, overnight scalp treatments, and viral reedle shot hacks that are completely changing the game for hair thickness and shine.
Mind-blowing makeup: From blurring pudding pots to the 'juicy' cushion foundations causing a stir on social media, we’re running through the innovative makeup products that are making over our makeup bags.
K-Beauty for Gen X? The science-backed skincare we’re making room for on our own top shelves, from glutathione serums to pillowy “K-pharmacy” retinols
The wildcard: Stay tuned for our exclusive reveal of the surprising non-K-beauty brand that will be anchoring the Olive Young US launch experience—you’ll never guess who they partnered with!
PROMO CODES: When you support our sponsors, you support the creation of Breaking Beauty Podcast!

Medik8
Medik8 is a clinically proven, dermatologist-recommended British skincare brand known for age-defying results. Visit Medik8.us or the new Medik8.ca and use code BREAKING20 to save 20% on your first order.

Alaya Naturals
Alaya Naturals Multi Collagen features a comprehensive blend of five hydrolyzed collagen peptides along with MSM, glucosamine, and chondroitin to promote skin hydration, hair and nail health, and natural collagen production. Visit Alayanaturals.com/beauty and enter code BEAUTY at checkout for 20% off your first order.

Goodr
Ready to upgrade your eyewear to something functional, fashionable, fun, and affordable? Head to goodr.com/BEAUTY to claim $10 off your first order.

Narwal
Stop babysitting your vacuum and let the AI do the work! From spills to daily messes, The Narwal Flow Series keeps your home effortlessly fresh. Head to Narwal.com today to check out the new Narwal Flow 2.

Related episodes like this:

K-beauty glass skin secrets with Amy Chang — plus the top 3 treatments that transformed her skin
K-Beauty Secrets: Dermatologist Dr. David Kim on Salmon DNA, Glass Skin & Anti-Aging
Your Ultimate #DamnGood K-Beauty Shopping Guide is Here! Featuring Ava Lee, AKA @glowwithava

Get social with us and let us know what you think of the episode! Find us on Instagram, Tiktok,X, Threads. Join our private Facebook group. Or give us a call and leave us a voicemail at 1-844-227-0302. Sign up for our Substack here. Subscribe to our YouTube Channel to watch our episodes!

For any products or links mentioned in this episode, check out our website: https://breakingbeautypodcast.com/episode-recaps/


*Disclaimer: Unless otherwise stated, all products reviewed are gratis media samples submitted for editorial consideration.*

Hosts: Carlene Higgins and Jill Dunn
Theme song, used with permission: Cherry Bomb by Saya

Produced by Dear Media Studio
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week we’re back in the studio to have a proper catch up and to make sense of the recent beauty headlines! Everything from an unexpected “holy” pivot for a beauty brand founder to the sponcon wedding boom.

Tune in as we discuss:

Is it tacky or genius to have your entire bachelorette trip sponsored by a beauty brand — 747 private jet and all? We break it down.
Sephora’s latest content pillar alongside Makeup by Mario aims to sort out your makeup dilemmas
Our thoughts on the “Natural Nail Movement” that’s picking up steam on social media — is it a recession indicator or a shift that says a lot more about our societal norms?
For the first time ever, we are joined by our producer Olivia who helps us debrief the disturbing mindset of Gen-Z “Looksmaxxing” influencer Clavicular
The new body oil discovery unlike any other that Carlene has tried
Our experience with the latest innovation from Olaplex — direct from the very salon where master celebrity hair colorist Tracey Cunningham (and Olaplex ambassador) can work on up to 20 clients per day
Stay tuned to the end for a jaw-dropping conversation about a beauty biz billionaire who’s giving it all away for an entirely new career pivot that we’re certain has never been done before
PS – if you’re already sharing links with your friends and you’re not on ShopMy yet, you should be! It just makes everything more organized and you can actually earn from it. You can join with this referral link to get set up. #shopmycreator

Get social with us and let us know what you think of the episode! Find us on Instagram, Tiktok,X, Threads. Join our private Facebook group. Or give us a call and leave us a voicemail at 1-844-227-0302. Sign up for our Substack here. Subscribe to our YouTube Channel to watch our episodes!

For any products or links mentioned in this episode, check out our website: https://breakingbeautypodcast.com/episode-recaps/


Related episodes like this:
Solo Episode: The Devil Wears Lancôme? Movie Marketing Gone Wild, Jo Malone Zara Drama and Can Acne Ever be “Sexy”
Solo Episode! 👀Carlene’s Blepharoplasty Journey, How We’re Erasing Our Redness and Spider Veins, Why Your Fave Influencer May Be a Catfish and Will The Row Launch Into Beauty?
Drop Everything! Our 2026 #DamnGood Budget Buying Guide is Here


PROMO CODES: When you support our sponsors, you support the creation of Breaking Beauty Podcast!

Nutrafol
Let your hair be one less thing to worry about. See thicker, stronger, faster-growing hair with Nutrafol. For a limited time, Nutrafol is offering our listeners $10 off your first month’s subscription and free shipping when you visit nutrafol.com and enter promo code BREAKING.

Vivier Skin
Vivier is a Canadian, pharmaceutical-grade skincare brand known for its science-backed, clinically proven formulations—designed to deliver real, visible results. Visit VivierSkin.com and use code BEAUTY15 at checkout to receive 15% off your purchase.

*Disclaimer: Unless otherwise stated, all products reviewed are gratis media samples submitted for editorial consideration.*

Hosts: Carlene Higgins and Jill Dunn
Theme song, used with permission: Cherry Bomb by Saya

Produced by Dear Media Studio
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Joanna Czech believes that three minutes of sun exposure a day is good for your skin - say what?! The celebrity facialist with more than four decades of experience (her client roster includes everyone from Anna Wintour, Kim Kardashian and Hailey Bieber) also thinks you should incorporate vitamin A “training” before any skin treatments and/or plastic surgery. Plus, are exosomes just a trend?

This week we’re welcoming Joanna back to the show and getting totally unfiltered about everything skin-related, so buckle up — you’re in for a thought-provoking ride!

You’ll discover:
How to transition your routine for summer — why Joanna doesn’t believe in switching creams based on the weather, but rather on your skin’s specific needs
How to practice intermittent sun exposure the right way — and yes, she does believe it’s good for you
The No. 1 treatment to get rid of hyperpigmentation, according to the pro
Microneedling for rosacea? It’s a yes, says Joanna
Why “vitamin A training” is a must before any professional skin treatment or surgery, in her experience
Exosomes in skincare? Not for this esthetician
Why your daytime skin routine really begins at night
Vitamin A 101: why she is saying ‘no’ to prescription retinoids, and yes to over-the-counter derivatives for better results
The importance of resetting your skin pH before the rest of your skincare steps
Her surprising expert hack for using clay masks!
The one supplement she uses every day that truly makes a difference
Pssst - If you want to learn more about Joanna’s spas, you can find more info on her New York atelier here, her Dallas spa here, and her Beverly Hills outpost here.
Disclaimer: Please note the discussion in today’s podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

For any products or links mentioned in this episode, check out our website: https://breakingbeautypodcast.com/episode-recaps/

Related episodes like this:
Fashion’s Favourite Facialist, Joanna Czech
Everything to Know About The French Pharmacy Inspired Vitamin A Skin Ointment by Cassatt Beauty
7 Ways to Future-Proof Your Skin According to Celebrity Esthetician Crystal Koro Plus! We Try Liquid Microneedling

PROMO CODES: When you support our sponsors, you support the creation of Breaking Beauty Podcast!

Jones Road Beauty
If you want makeup that brings out your natural glow instead of hiding it, Jones Road is the way to go. For a limited time, our listeners are getting a free gift on their first purchase when they use code BEAUTY at checkout. Just head to jonesroadbeauty.com and use code BEAUTY at checkout. After you purchase, they will ask you where you heard about them. Please support our show and tell them our show sent you!

Vivier
Vivier is a Canadian, pharmaceutical-grade skincare brand known for its science-backed, clinically proven formulations—designed to deliver real, visible results. Visit VivierSkin.com and use code BEAUTY15 at checkout to receive 15% off your purchase.

Momentous
Momentous Fiber+ is a complete, 3-in-1 formula with soluble fiber, insoluble fiber, and a prebiotic resistant starch. Head to livemomentous.com and use promo code beauty for up to 35% off your first order.

Cowboy Colostrum
Cowboy Colostrum offers the highest quality bovine (that’s cow) colostrum available in the US. For a limited time, our listeners get up to 25% off their entire order. Just head to cowboycolostrum.com/beauty and use code BEAUTY at checkout.

Quince
Refresh your everyday with luxury you’ll actually use. Head to Quince.com/BREAKINGBEAUTY for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too.

Get social with us and let us know what you think of the episode! Find us on Instagram, Tiktok,X, Threads. Join our private Facebook group. Or give us a call and leave us a voicemail at 1-844-227-0302. Sign up for our Substack here. Subscribe to our YouTube Channel to watch our episodes!

*Disclaimer: Unless otherwise stated, all products reviewed are gratis media samples submitted for editorial consideration.*

Hosts: Carlene Higgins and Jill Dunn
Theme song, used with permission: Cherry Bomb by Saya

Produced by Dear Media Studio

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Barb Stegemann is back to inspire us once more, just in time for Mother’s Day! Also known as the “Philosopher Queen,” Barb is a longtime friend of our show and a complete force to be reckoned with in the beauty business.

Barb launched The 7 Virtues fragrance brand out of her garage in Halifax, Nova Scotia on International Women’s Day back in 2010, after her best friend, Capt. Trevor Greene, was wounded in Afghanistan by the Taliban while serving there.

Barb then sowed the seeds of what would become a historic social enterprise and commercial success story, buying fair-trade essential oils from farmers in war-torn regions to make perfumes for peace — and now The 7 Virtues is in 2,000 Sephora stores around the world.

Tune in to hear about:

What makes a viral moment: why The 7 Virtues “Santal Vanille and “Amber Vanilla” were the clean perfumes to pop off on TikTok
Why “Vanilla Woods,” launched in 2018, was years ahead of the gourmand trend, and what makes it the brand’s bestseller to this day
What makes a fragrance “clean” anyway? Barb explains fragrance load, organic sugar-cane alcohol and a 24-hour wear test
Why “Strawberry Jam” is the biggest launch in brand history, and why Barb believes everyone wants to smell like layer cake at this moment in time
Inside The 7 Virtues Atelier on the Halifax Waterfront, and a major scoop on Barb’s expansion plans for the custom fragrance concept store
The Sephora full-circle moment: from taking part in Sephora Accelerate in 2018 to mentoring the next class of Sephora Squad creators in 2026
“Dragons’ Den,” redux: the original pitch that landed Brett Wilson's $125,000 investment (a reported 56-fold return), and what it felt like to return as a guest dragon for the show's 20th anniversary
Why being underestimated is a gift, and the Marcus Aurelius wisdom Barb has repeated to her kids since they were small: “Be prepared to meet the angry, the lost, the jealous, the jaded. Now lead.”

Get social with us and let us know what you think of the episode! Find us on Instagram, Tiktok,X, Threads. Join our private Facebook group. Or give us a call and leave us a voicemail at 1-844-227-0302. Sign up for our Substack here. Subscribe to our YouTube Channel to watch our episodes!

For any products or links mentioned in this episode, check out our website: https://breakingbeautypodcast.com/episode-recaps/


Related episodes like this:
The 7 Virtues Founder Barb Stegemann (original airdate in 2017)
What Bite Beauty Founder Susanne Langmuir is Banking on Next
“Perfume Princess” Mona Kattan On Kayali’s Meteoric Rise at Sephora, The Secrets to Fragrance Layering and Is Your Signature Scent Overrated?


PROMO CODES: When you support our sponsors, you support the creation of Breaking Beauty Podcast!

Lightstim
LightStim Elipsa is an FDA-cleared device used by thousands of professionals to simultaneously treat wrinkles and acne. It has 868 professional LED lights and delivers the same collagen-stimulating results as a treatment at a doctor’s office—and it’s now available for at-home use. Use our code BEAUTY to SAVE 10% at lightstim.com.

Merit
Right now, Merit Beauty is offering our listeners their Signature Makeup Bag with your first order at meritbeauty.com.

Vivier
Building on their legacy of Vitamin C innovation, Vivier recently launched their most
advanced formula to date—Vivier Serum 30, designed to visibly brighten the skin, refine tone, texture and support a more radiant, even-looking complexion. Visit VivierSkin.com and use code BEAUTY15 at checkout to receive 15% off your purchase.

Nutrafol
Let your hair be one less thing to worry about. See visibly thicker, stronger, faster growing hair in 3–6 months with Nutrafol. For a limited time, Nutrafol is offering our listeners $10 off your first month’s subscription and free shipping when you visit nutrafol.com and enter promo code BREAKING.

Dove
Discover the new Dove Serum+ Oil Body Wash at www.dove.com/ca now available on Amazon and in stores nationwide.

*Disclaimer: Unless otherwise stated, all products reviewed are gratis media samples submitted for editorial consideration.*

Hosts: Carlene Higgins and Jill Dunn
Theme song, used with permission: Cherry Bomb by Saya

Produced by Dear Media Studio
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.