Beauty IQ Uncensored

Centella Asiatica (aka Tiger Grass) has taken over skincare shelves, but what does it actually do? This week on Expert, we break down the science behind this centuries-old ingredient and why it's a barrier repair MVP. From healing support to anti-inflammatory power, we explain why it’s trending (again) and who should use it.

Plus, in Adore Anonymous, we help a listener dealing with hormonal breakouts before their period, offering tips for prevention and calming inflammation. And yep, we’re talking about the jellyfish haircut. Because why not?

Everything Mentioned:

This week on Uncensored, we bust viral Botox myths (thanks to TikTok’s fave NYC derm), help a listener repair their dry, crusty lips, and test Bondi Sands’ new Ultra Express tan that promises deep colour in just one hour.

Plus, Doechi is making face tape fashion, and we review the Mediheal toner pads all over our TikTok feeds.

Everything Mentioned:

This week on Expert, we're getting real about beauty supplements — what’s changed, what’s next, and which ones are actually worth your cash. From the gut-skin-brain connection to smarter, more sustainable formulas, we’re breaking it all down. Plus, meet the newest cult supplement brand to hit Adore Beauty’s shelves.

In Win, Bin or Recycle, we ask the tough question: why do we still clean our ears with cotton buds when we know it’s a terrible idea? (Guilty.)

Finally, in Adore Anonymous, we help a listener whose skin can’t handle vitamin C serums — and...

This week on Uncensored, we’re talking braces (yes, braces because apparently they're cool again??), Mel's three Brazilian non-negotiables, and Mother’s Day beauty cart builds — all in one jam-packed episode.

First up, it's Top 3, where we dig into Adore Beauty’s data to uncover the most coveted products by category. On the list this week? Hair smoothing essentials to help you fight frizz and flyaways like a pro.

Next, we step into Build My Cart to help a listener find the perfect Mother’s Day foundation—light, dewy coverage for under $90.

And finally, we pe...

We’re giving the skin below your chin some well-deserved love in this week’s Expert episode—from in-clinic treatments that sound like they belong in a sci-fi flick, to at-home body care solutions that actually deliver results. Think firming creams, LED gadgets, and exfoliants that’ll have you feeling dolphin-smooth in no time.

But first, it’s Win, Bin or Recycle—and let’s just say… we’re going full bush this week. No further context needed.

Later, we settle the great neck cream debate: do you really need one, or is your face moisturiser enough...

This week on Uncensored, we chart the rise of Japanese and Korean beauty in Australia, why it's outpacing French cosmetics globally, and the new TikTok-viral brands that just dropped on Adore Beauty.

From glass skin 2.0 to salmon DNA (yes, really), we’re breaking down the skincare and makeup trends you’ll be seeing everywhere in 2025.

In Beauty IQ Hotline, a listener wants to know: What’s the deal with silk pillowcases? We break down the real benefits (and the overhyped claims) for your skin and hair.

And in Stuff We Love, it’s a juicy P...

This week on Expert, we’re tackling a big one: age management during pregnancy. Skin therapist and co-host Tegan breaks down what you can use safely during this stage (hi bakuchiol, vitamin C, and hydrating facials) and what to give a hard pass (goodbye, retinol and high-strength peels).

We’re also covering the clinic treatments that are actually pregnancy-safe—and the best options for glowing, healthy skin with minimal downtime.

But first… Sadaf has a hot take on the Shark FlexStyler. Spoiler: it changed her entire hair routine.

In Win, Bin or Recycle, we’re we...

What happens when you’re away from home with zero makeup and a formal event on the cards? In this week’s Uncensored episode, we put our personal shopper hats on for a listener who needs a full glam look—on a strict $150 budget. From the best drugstore foundation to a smudge-proof mascara and a setting spray that actually works, we build a cart that covers all the essentials (and looks damn good in photos).

Plus, in We Tried It, Mel shares her experience getting a pregnancy-safe lymphatic massage. We unpack what makes this treatment safe for pregna...

In this week’s Expert episode, we’re diving into a topic that doesn’t get nearly enough airtime: menopause and your skin. From perimenopause to post, Skin Therapist Tegan unpacks the science behind hormonal skin changes—think dryness, sensitivity, breakouts—and shares practical tips on how to tweak your skincare routine to match.

Expect expert advice, product swaps, and gut health hacks to help you feel more confident (and less confused) about what your skin needs during this phase of life.

Plus, the Millennial Side Part is apparently making a comeback (did it ever really lea...

Emily Ratajkowski just got the worst haircut of her life—her words, not ours—but somehow turned it into a genius Kérastase ad. We had thoughts, so naturally, we had to kick off this week's Uncensored ep by dissecting the whole thing.

Then, in honour of 25 Years of Adore Beauty, we’re revealing the three best-selling, most iconic products of all time—and trust us, the results might surprise you.

We also sat down with the woman who started it all: Kate Morris, co-founder of Adore Beauty. From launching Australia’s first online beauty retailer at...

This week on Expert, producer Jas gets up close and personal with her VISIA scan results—uncovering her biggest skin concerns and the treatment plan skin therapist (and co-host) Tegan has prescribed to tackle them. Plus, we reveal Jas’ TruSkin Age… and let’s just say, one side of her face has been aging in fast-forward. Yep, a full five years ahead of the other.

Next, we’re diving into skincare through the decades—what your skin actually needs in your 40s, 50s, and 60s. From collagen support in your 40s to deep hydration in your 50s and barrier...

From nose jobs to fox-eye lifts, cosmetic procedures have never felt more accessible—or more tempting. Thanks to social media, we’re no longer just seeing the before and afters. We're watching it all unfold: pre-op consults, the surgery chair, the bruises, the swelling, the recovery. But is this behind-the-scenes access empowering, or is it just another kind of beauty pressure dressed up as transparency? We get into it in this week's Uncensored episode.

Plus, we help a listener build the ultimate $100 barrier repair cart for dehydrated, acne-prone skin—affordable and effective picks only.

And finally...

On TikTok, #GoingBackToSiliconeShampoo has amassed over 89.6 million views, sparking a major beauty debate: why did we turn our backs on silicones in the first place, and why are they making a comeback in our showers?

In this Expert episode, Tegan and Sadaf enter the silicone chat, unpacking why some hair types thrive with them while others don’t. We discuss how hair porosity might have something to do with it—plus, we try the viral TikTok hair porosity test.

And of course, we’ve got another Adore Anonymous dilemma to solve! This time, it’s a skinca...

Would you trust AI with your face? In this Uncensored episode, hosts Hannah and Mel see if ChatGPT could prescribe the perfect AM and PM regimen. Did it nail our skin concerns, or did we end up with a 12-step routine that included dish soap and coconut oil? We compare its suggestions to our current routines to see how they measure up.

Plus, we help a listener repair their broken skin barrier in this week's Beauty IQ Hotline, sharing our top product picks that won't break the bank.

Finally, we talk go-to niacinamide serums for...

This week on Expert, we’re tackling one of beauty’s most debated topics: pheromone perfumes. Can they really make you more irresistible, or is the secret to an unforgettable scent all about how you layer? Our Experts break down the science behind fragrance chemistry, reveal why some scents get more compliments, and share the best fragrance combos for a signature scent that lasts.

In Win, Bin, or Recycle, we settle the great rain shower head debate—are they a decor dream or just an overhyped hassle? Tegan has some thoughts to share.

And in Adore A...

Lip balms, butters, and oils are everywhere right now, and we’re kicking off this week’s Uncensored episode by unpacking why these little luxuries are dominating our feeds (and our handbags). Plus, in this week's Top 3, we're revealing the most coveted beauty sleep essentials according to Adore Beauty’s data.

Then, we’re joined by Dynasty star Maddison Brown to chat about launching Outside Beauty, the SPF brand she co-founded with her sister. She spills on her ride-or-die skincare essentials and the best beauty hacks she’s learned from the pros for our On My Shelf series.

Salmon sperm skincare (aka PDRN) is one of the biggest beauty trends of 2025. From under-eye injections to topical skincare, our Experts break down why this DNA-derived ingredient is making waves in the beauty world and whether or not you should add it to your regimen, too.

Plus, in this week’s Adore Anonymous, we’re helping a listener tackle a summer skincare conundrum: Why do ingrown hairs seem to flare up in the heat, and what’s the best way to actually banish them for good?

Products Mentioned:

We kick off this week's Uncensored episode with a nod to our favourite female-founded beauty brands in honour of International Women’s Day (IWD) over the weekend.

Then, we bring you part two of Mel's fertility journey, answering listener questions and sharing more about her pregnancy experience—covering the highs and lows, managing physical changes, the impact of stress, and our viral IG moment.

Plus, we put Ultra Violette's new mineral sunscreen Future Fluid to the test (TGA-approved, of course), and reveal the wellness and lifestyle apps we keep coming back to.

Products Ment...

Endometriosis affects 1 in 9 people with a uterus, yet many struggle for years before getting a diagnosis. In this week’s Expert episode, Sadaf opens up about her own journey with endo and shares practical tips on how to support loved ones navigating this debilitating condition.

Plus, we dive into the latest celebrity shower debate—are Tegan and Sadaf firmly on team “wash your legs,” or is the trickle-down method enough?

And for this week’s Adore Anonymous, we’re settling a skincare dilemma: Is it better to target each skin concern with a dedicated product, or go for a...

This week on Uncensored, we try the viral TIRTIR Mask Fit Red Cushion Foundation—is it the comeback of cushion foundations, or just another TikTok trend? Hannah and Mel weigh in.

Next, we help a listener build the ultimate blonde haircare routine for under $200 in Build My Cart. Whether you’ve recently gone blonde or are thinking about it, we share must-haves for keeping your tresses fresh.

Finally, in Stuff We Love, Mel’s mum goes all-in on a cult favourite: Clarins Double Serum. Is it really as magical as everyone says? We discuss whether it live...

This week, Tegan and Sadaf are diving into the science of pH—what it is, why it matters, and how it can make or break your skincare routine. If you’ve ever wondered whether your cleanser is too harsh, why some products claim to be “pH-balanced,” or if your skin’s pH could be the reason for irritation, this episode has the answers.

But first—Win, Bin, or Recycle? We're debating the ultimate bathroom upgrade: bidets. Life-changing hygiene essential or unnecessary splash zone? You decide.

Plus, we tackle an Adore Anonymous question about the dreaded red wine flus...

It wouldn't be an episode of Uncensored without an embarrassing story to kick off the week—this time, involving a little, um, wet pants situation. But we'll let Mel take it from here...

Next up, we’re diving into the Top 3, where we uncover the most coveted products at Adore Beauty, as chosen by YOU. This week, we're talking all about tinted lip balms under $30.

Then, for this week's Beauty IQ Hotline, we’re handing the mic to Mel as she opens up about her IVF journey and the financial costs of fertility, responding to listen...

In this Expert episode, Tegan and Sadaf take you on a deep dive into the world of peptides—one of the hottest skincare trends for 2025. From wallet-friendly peptide serums under $100 to some irresistible splurge-worthy picks, we’ve got you covered with our top recommendations.

This week’s Win, Bin or Recycle is all about that secretly satisfying beauty moment we all love: peeling off gel nail polish. And in an Adore Anonymous, we tackle the age-old question: “Can you actually get rid of stretch marks?” Spoiler alert: it’s all about prevention, treatments, and managing your expectations.

This week on Uncensored, Hannah and Mel dive into the cutting-edge world of Longevity Hacking, exploring how this wellness trend is revolutionising beauty and anti-aging. From biohacking to Blue Zone-inspired skincare, we're breaking down the science behind extending your "beautyspan".

We’re also bringing back Beauty IQ Hotline with a self-tanner SOS: What happens when your fake tan becomes part of your identity? Plus, we’re sharing our current serum obsessions from AestheticsRx.

Products Mentioned:

Join the conv...

Valentine’s Day is around the corner, and we’re going full self-care mode. From everything showers to fresh sheets and full-body exfoliation, we’re kicking off this week’s Expert episode by sharing our ultimate wind-down routines.

Then, we’re diving into the world of affordable acne skincare—because breakouts don’t care about age, and keeping them under control shouldn’t drain your bank account. We’ll break down expert-approved, budget-friendly products and practical tips to help manage acne-prone skin without the hefty price tag.

Plus, in Adore Anonymous, we tackle a listener’s question about why...

300 episodes of Beauty IQ Uncensored? Obviously, we had to make it a moment. We're reuniting past and present hosts for a nostalgia-packed celebration—plus, we’re spilling the tea on Adore Beauty’s shiny new Southland store (with a cheeky cameo from the store itself).

We Tried It: Viral Beauty Products ft. Matt Tankard

Mr Beauty IQ himself, Matt, is back, and we’ve handed him some of the most hyped beauty products for his unfiltered verdict. Are they worth the obsession, or just another TikTok-fueled fever dream? Also, things get unexpectedly intimate as we dive dee...

Ever had a skincare product just… stop working? This week on Expert, we’re tackling one of the biggest beauty myths: Can a product actually plateau, or is something else at play? Skin Therapist Tegan breaks down what might be happening, how to tell if it’s time to switch things up, and what you can do to keep your routine effective.

We’re also talking DIY beauty hacks in Win, Bin, or Recycle (spoiler: turmeric masks are a no from us), plus a timely Adore Anonymous question about why your nose might be peeling while the rest of...

Your thirties hit differently—Mel’s entering her final year of them, and we’re getting a little deep on why this decade feels more confident, content, and just... better.

We’re kicking things off with The Top 3, where we dig into Adore Beauty’s data to reveal the most-loved beauty products right now. This week? Beach Bag Beauty Must-Haves to keep your skin, lips, and hair happy this summer.

Next, we’re introducing Build My Cart, where we play personal shopper and curate the perfect beauty routine on a budget. Today’s challenge? An everyday makeup...

Producer Jas takes us behind the scenes of her first VISIA skin scan in this week's Expert episode at co-host Tegan Mac's Melbourne clinic—a fascinating analysis that reveals your skin’s "true" age and even predicts how it might change over time... spooky.

We then unpack TikTok’s “Low-Tox” trend, exploring the harmful misinformation it’s spreading about sunscreen and what the experts really say. Plus, we dive into the rising popularity of mineral sunscreens as a gentler, eco-friendly option and share our beauty editor-approved picks.

Finally, we tackle ‘Tantouring’ in this week’s Win, Bin or Recycl...

In this week’s Uncensored ep, Hannah gives us the lowdown on Fire & Ice Therapy, the buzzy wellness practice you're about to see everywhere. Promising improved circulation, faster muscle recovery, and reduced stress, is it worth the hype—or just another fad? Hannah breaks down the benefits, what to expect, and her final verdict. Meanwhile, Mel shares an exciting update on her pregnancy journey so far, including one surprising perk.

Beauty IQ Hotline: Eco-Friendly Beauty Tips

This week’s listener wants to make their beauty routine more sustainable without falling for greenwashing traps. We’re talking...

The internet thinks accutane can shrink your nose, but is this actually true? Skin Therapist Tegan weighs in with her professional opinion on the TikTok trend popularised by Alix Earle.

Win, Bin, or Recycle: Checking Your Tissue After Blowing Your Nose

An everyday habit under the microscope—Tegan and Sadaf discuss whether this questionable ritual is a harmless habit, or got to go.

Appointment Anxiety? What to Expect from Your First Skin Therapist Visit

A first visit to a skin therapist can feel daunting, but it doesn’t need to be. Tega...

Mel’s got a little one on the way, and we couldn’t be happier to share the exciting news in the very first episode of our refreshed format! Oh, and did we mention it’s our first time recording IRL in 2025? If we sound a little extra giddy, now you know why.

Top 3: Long-Wear Foundations

Summer in Australia means weddings, events, and, yes, sweaty days at the Australian Open. A long-wear foundation is a must-have, so we’ve dug into Adore Beauty’s data to uncover the top three formulas you’re loving right now.

...

In this Expert episode, Tegan and Sadaf tackle the ever-important skin barrier—what it is, why it’s your skin’s best friend, and how to keep it in tip-top shape, especially in the harsh summer months.

Win, Bin, or Recycle? Face Taping as an Anti-Wrinkle Alternative

Is face taping a genius anti-wrinkle hack or just another TikTok trend? Sadaf and Tegan weigh the pros and cons of this Japanese-inspired technique, explore its Botox-alternative buzz, and give their final verdict.

Skin Barrier Breakdown: How to Protect It During Summer

Summer stresses your s...

Beauty IQ Uncensored is getting a 2025 glow-up. Expect more insider intel, must-have products, hands-on trials, and plenty of ways for you to shape the beauty conversation. But first, we need to talk about that dangerous tanning trend taking over TikTok...

Cringey Convo: Is Gen Z Bringing Tanlines Back?

TikTok’s #sunburnttanlines trend has racked up over 200 million views, encouraging the dangerous idea of burning to get the “perfect” tan. Yikes. With Australia’s high skin cancer rates and UV exposure risks, we’ve got a lot to say about this—and it’s a fitting way to wrap up...

In this Expert episode, Beauty Editor Sadaf and Skin Therapist Tegan dive into the topic of apps like Think Dirty and Yuka, which claim to help consumers identify 'toxic' beauty ingredients. But, according to beauty science expert Dr Michelle Wong (aka Lab Muffin), these apps aren’t as reliable as they seem. Tegan and Sadaf discuss whether these tools are helping or just adding to the confusion around skincare ingredients.

Win, Bin or Recycle? Keeping Hotel Amenities. 

This week’s segment takes on the age-old question: should you keep or toss hotel amenities, like those tiny...

Beauty writers and co-hosts Hannah and Mel are back with more beauty predictions for the year ahead. Plus, we discuss Pantone's Color of the Year "Mocha Mousse", and why it's divided the internet.

Cringey Convo: Getting Ready in Summer: How to Avoid a (Literal) Meltdown.

The silly season is upon us, and getting ready in summer has never been more challenging. Between the heat, humidity, and inevitable sweat, we’re all just trying to survive. Mel shares her go-to hack for keeping cool while applying makeup, including her genius trick of using the hairdryer’s cool...

Happy New Year! It’s officially 2025, and we’re kicking things off with a fresh set of beauty resolutions. Hosts Sadaf and Tegan share their personal goals for the year, from better cleansing habits to breaking bad beauty habits (cough sleeping in makeup).

WIN, BIN OR RECYCLE? Holding Onto Old Eyeshadow Palettes.

We’ve all been there—holding on to eyeshadow palettes that we might use again someday. But is it time to let go? This week’s Win, Bin, or Recycle tackles the case of the unused palettes lurking in your stash. Should you keep them f...

As we wave goodbye to 2024, we’re reflecting on the year in beauty—from viral products to budget-friendly finds—and sharing our personal wins from the year.

Cringey Convo: How to Get Guests to Leave Your Party.

We’ve all been there: the party’s over, you’re exhausted, but your guests just won’t leave. From subtle cues like cleaning up to the universally understood “Welp, time for bed” move, we share the dos and don’ts of politely showing people the door.

Adore's Best-Selling Makeup of 2024.

This year brought us viral sensations...

the final Beauty IQ Expert episode of 2024, and we’re wrapping up the year with a bang: Tegan and Sadaf reveal the best-selling skincare products of 2024! But first, they’re sharing the beauty essentials they’ll be packing in their touch-up kits for New Year’s Eve.

WIN, BIN OR RECYCLE? Repurposing Gifts.

The holiday season is over, and now we’re left with the gifts that didn't quite hit the mark. What do you do when you receive a present that doesn’t quite suit you? Tegan and Sadaf debate whether it’s socially acceptable to...

What does your Christmas morning (and beauty routine) look like? Are you team slow start or team family festivities? Hosts Hannah and Mel share their plans and the essentials they're reaching for most over the holidays.

Cringey Convo: We Rate The Best & Worst Beauty Trends of 2024.

In this segment, we're diving into the beauty trends that made us cringe, laugh, or seriously question what’s going on. From viral TikTok hacks to questionable aesthetics, we rank 2024’s biggest beauty trends from best to worst. Some we love, some we would happily leave behind in 2024.

Wh...