Allure: The Science of Beauty

Olivia Munn on the Test to Take Even If Your Mammogram Is Clear

Actor Olivia Munn is no stranger to the spotlight, but in recent years, after the birth of her first child and a breast cancer diagnosis, things have looked a little diff

S2 Ep. 6 | Hair Dye

It's our final episode of the year! After reviewing the colorful — pun very-much intended — history of hair dye, Jenny and Dianna team up with cosmetic chemist Dr. Anne W

S2 Ep. 5 | Scalp

This week, we're covering the topic holding this whole season together: our scalps. Join Jenny, Dianna, and guest Dr. Rolanda Wilkerson, principal scientist for Head & Sh

S2 Ep. 4 | Hair Loss/Thinning

As we speak, there are about 30 million women in the United States who are experiencing hair loss and thinning as caused by genetics — yet the topic remains taboo. So thi

S2 Ep. 3 | Frizz

This week, Jenny and Dianna are going to battle with a universal enemy: frizz. Join them — along with cosmetic chemist Erica Douglas — as they dive deep into what causes

S2 Ep. 2 | Conditioner

Be honest — have you ever wondered what conditioner is actually... doing? This week, Jenny and Dianna are exploring the MVP of any in-shower routine with help from Dr. Je

S2 Ep. 1 | Silicones

Our second season is off to a spooky start, as we investigate a vilified ingredient... that's probably on your skin right now. Eek! But don't worry — cosmetic chemist Per

Introducing Allure: The Science of Beauty, Season 2

Did you miss us? The Science of Beauty, a podcast from Allure, is back for a second season. And this time, things are getting... hairy. Join Jenny Bailly, executive beaut

The Inside Story: Peptides

These tiny chains of amino acids are among the most powerful topical tools we have to help smooth wrinkles and restore skin firmness — here’s why. (Special thanks to Derm

The Inside Story: Niacinamide

This clinically-proven vitamin B3 derivative can help treat acne, brighten dark spots, and smooth fine lines and wrinkles. No wonder it’s taken TikTok by storm. (Special

The Inside Story: Jojoba Oil

This natural oil has a funny-sounding name, but it’s got serious benefits for skin and hair—especially if yours feel parched. Best of all, you can easily snag a bottle on

The Inside Story: Tea Tree Oil

This essential oil is a triple-threat against breakouts, but if you want to reap the benefits, you’ve got to take it slow. (Special thanks to Dermatologist Alyx Rosen Aig

The Inside Story: Kojic Acid

This skin brightener is one of few ingredients that can help reduce the dark spots and discoloration also known as hyperpigmentation—but there’s more to the story. Listen

The Inside Story: Squalane

This moisturizing lipid has a complicated backstory, but it’s worth sifting through the facts to uncover the hydrating benefits, particularly if you have oily skin. (Spec

The Inside Story: Cica

This soothing ingredient has a fascinating origin story—and compelling research on why it works so well to treat inflammatory skin conditions like eczema and help acceler

The Inside Story: Ceramides

Without our body’s natural ceramides, our skin cells would dry up and shrivel. Apply ceramides topically, and these lipids help your skin cells not just survive, but thri

The Inside Story: Biotin

Biotin has earned a reputation as the “it” supplement if you’re looking to grow out your hair or strengthen your nails — though surprisingly, there’s very little clinical

The Inside Story: Collagen

We have natural collagen to thank for our skin’s resilience and firmness… or lack thereof. Collagen depletes as we age, but can applying it topically — or even ingesting

The Inside Story: Sulfur

The skin benefits of sulfur are often overshadowed by its rather... stinky reputation. But we suspect you’ll quickly get over the smell when you learn what this ingredien

The Inside Story: Turmeric

This week, we're exploring an ingredient with a storied past — and a promising future. Turmeric is spiked with curcumin, an antioxidant that helps protect skin from damag