Beauty IQ Uncensored

On this week’s episode, we sit down with supermodel and founder of KORA Organics Miranda Kerr to chat all things wellness and beauty – from the retinol alternative she loves to the morning and night routines she swears by. 

If you’re wondering exactly how the Victoria's Secret angels achieved their signature glow on the runway, Miranda’s got the answer. Spoiler: it’s just one product (and it’s in stock at Adore right now 👀). 

Plus, what do Sadaf and Katy Perry have in common? They’re both obsessed with the KORA Organics Turmeric Glow Moisturizer, a...

Where do you start when building a men’s skincare routine? Are lip tattoos actually worth the hype? And what can new mums do about postpartum hair loss? This week on Expert, Tegan and Sadaf are covering practical beauty advice for real life, from on-the-go essentials to the hair changes that can happen after having a baby. First up, if you’ve ever realised you forgot deodorant, lip balm or a hair tie right when you needed it most, you’re probably not Tegan, who runs us through her extensive 'car beauty must-haves'. Then, for Win, Bin, Recycle, it’s all ab...

Like every other person on the planet right now, Mel is obsessed with figuring out the exact beauty products Carolyn Bessette Kennedy used, and with the help of Yads Cauchi, she might have done it. But first, Mel tells Hannah about the rise of 'lunchtime boob jobs' in New York – a cosmetic procedure designed to be quick enough to fit into a lunch break. Then, Hannah shares some of her increasingly chaotic late-night ChatGPT searches. Friend of the podcast and dermal clinician Yads Cauchi then joins Mel for a long discussion about Carolyn Bessette Kennedy’s beauty routine, from the...

Should you actually sit on public toilet seats? It’s the debate dividing the team this week, as Tegan and Sadaf weigh in on whether it’s fine or whether hovering is the only option. Then, Tegan takes a deep dive into melasma, the stubborn pigmentation condition that can be incredibly frustrating to manage. She explains what actually causes melasma, why it’s so closely linked to hormones and sun exposure, and the key things you can do to help prevent it from worsening. Tegan also breaks down the treatment options available, from skincare you can use at home to the...

This week on Uncensored, Mel and Hannah dive into the weird, wonderful and slightly questionable things living in our handbags… and what might also be living on them. From loose lip balms and snack crumbs to rogue hair ties and mystery receipts, Mel and Hannah compare the chaotic contents of their bags and discuss the surprising amount of bacteria handbags can harbour if they’re never cleaned. We’ve also got long-time Australian beauty editor Sarah Tarca and co-creator of beauty newsletter Gloss Etc. on the show to talk through the products she’s loved most throughout her career in beaut...

This week on Expert, Sadaf and Tegan are all about tough love. Got sunburnt? They’re not mad, they’re just disappointed! Still, it happens to all of us sometimes, but there are ways to cope with an accidental one. But first up, Sadaf shares a game-changing under-eye concealer trick from TikTok for amazing dark circle coverage, and Tegan jumps in with her own clever hack for setting concealer without the creases. How to avoid emphasising fine lines + concealer that lasts the distance? Yes, please. Then it’s Win, Bin, Recycle: lash curlers. Are the scary-looking contraptions an essential step o...

Mel and Hannah are back, and there’s a new mini in town! Hannah catches us up on baby Mila and newborn life.

This week’s episode covers everything from red carpet glam to peeling heels, so strap in.
First up, we’re talking cracked heels. You know that thick, dry heel skin that no amount of body lotion can fix? Hannah’s figured out how to get rid of it, but Mel also has some historically excellent (and gross) tools for anyone who gets weird satisfaction out of bits of dead skin coming off their feet. We...

This week on Expert, we’re ringing in the new year with a glowing skincare recommendation from Sadaf. Warning: this underrated vitamin C serum may cause lots of compliments. Linked below, of course.

In Win, Bin or Recycle, it’s time we had the natural deodorant chat. Do they actually work for us or have we given up on them completely?

Then, Tegan lists her 2026 beauty predictions – the treatments, trends and ingredients that’ll take off everywhere. Watch this space. 

Smelly earrings? We share the best ways to clean your...

This week on Expert, it’s our last episode of the year, so we’re reflecting on the products you all loved (and purchased a lot) from Adore Beauty in 2025. We’re talking: top 10 status. Glowing reviews? You bet.

In Win, Bin or Recycle, it’s the Great Primer Debate. Sadaf swears by it but Tegan doesn’t use it – is there a right or wrong way to skin prep or does it just come down to preference?

For our Adore Anonymous listener, we reveal our best tips on dealing with the dreaded fake tan knee stain. Fa...

This week on Expert, we’re back and catching up on everything that’s been happening these past few weeks. The biggest news? Tegan had her baby!

In Win, Bin or Recycle, we answer the much-debated question: should we be taking our shoes off in other people’s houses? (Spoiler: it’s a resounding yes from us).

Then, we unpack the news story that broke the 'beauty internet' this year – consumer group CHOICE revealing that 16 out of the 20 sunscreens they tested failed to meet their SPF claims. With misinformation and fear-mongering on the rise, we break down...

This week on Uncensored, we discover a new stress-relieving product that’s *popping off* on TikTok, and segue into our bumper list of PWDKWN this year. 

Think: K-beauty best-sellers, cosmeceutical body treatments, and supplements that made a real difference (yes, The Beauty Chef’s The Perfect Poo made the list.)

Then, we reveal our peaks and pits of 2025. The nausea, the bubs, and the people that stuck by us.

A big thank you to everyone who listened, shared, and DM’d us this year. See you in 2026!

Everything mentioned:

This week on Uncensored, it's the fake tan episode. Mousses, mitts, Le Tan in Le Can, we reminisce about the formulas and tools of the past (aka, the early to mid 2000s) for the millennials who know. No exfoliation – just streaky layers and patchy knees. You had to be there.

Then, we share the best fake tan hacks we've ever read, along with the rituals and tools we swear by. The products and application techniques have sure come a looong way.

Finally, is fake tan getting the millennial 'skinny jeans' treatment? We un...

Drumroll, please! It's time for Beauty Wrapped 2025 (the Uncensored version), where we recap the viral products that broke the internet, the flops we’d rather forget, and the hits that actually earned a permanent spot in our routines.

In this week's Cringey Convo, we take a peek inside our mums' faithful makeup bags, exposing the good, the not-so good, and the discontinued. It's chaos, but it's home.

Plus, there's a buzzy new skincare ingredient that's being talked about on TikTok. Is it a topical solution for filler?

Every...

This week on Uncensored, we discuss the rise in consumer fatigue over complicated beauty routines, never-ending product releases, and the social pressure to keep up with self-care. Is this overconsumption causing mass burnout?

Putting mindfulness first, we chat through the rituals that actually make us feel good, redefining the 'everything shower' in more holistic terms. Think cleansing, sensory stimulation and breathwork. Of course, there are a few beauty tools we love and recommend that help us stay zen.

The beauty of sleep? Melissa recounts her two-day trip away from her son, Jo...

This week on Uncensored, we answer the million-dollar question: what do you get the person who has everything? 

Dads, partners, sisters who tell it like it is – we’ve got a holiday gift guide for everyone and every budget. Not to mention a list of beauty we’ll be buying ourselves this Christmas (after all, you can’t spell gift without ‘i’).

Plus, Hannah shares her ‘2026 beauty treatments’ list, covering the nail, hair, and facial appointments she’ll be booking on repeat. 

Everything mentioned:

This week on Uncensored, we’re unpacking the big cosmetic buzzwords circulating the internet right now – from Ozempic face to filler fatigue and cheek collapse. Are these real concerns or just social media hype?

Dermatologist Dr Katherine Armour joins us to break down the science behind trending treatments, sharing how to take a balanced, evidence-based approach to skin health and ageing.

Plus, we reveal the products, treatments and routines that save *future us* the hassle. Think: blow waves, LED masks and full-body exfoliation. When it comes to beauty maintenance, has TikTok taken things too far?

This week on Unscensored, it’s all about fragrance – aka, the fastest-growing beauty subcategory. We’re talking signature scents, popular perfumes, and surprising viral moments. Two words: Michael Bublé.

We also reminisce about the first perfumes we fell in love with (Britney Spears’ Fantasy mention) and unpack the fragrance microtrends shaping the way younger consumers express individuality. Are we moving away from celebrity scents and towards something more story-driven?

Plus, we reveal how to actually gift someone a fragrance – drawing inspo from our favourite to not-so-favourite perfumes – and the sets we think are worth every (scent). Compl...

This week on Uncensored, we’re talking all things hair, getting to the root of scalp health, hair growth technology and current shifts in trends – are more women embracing long hair?

Then, we sit down with award-winning makeup artist Amanda Ramsay for a candid chat on menopause, retiring the term ‘anti-ageing’, and the zest for life she's experiencing in her fifties. Amanda also shares the beauty she’s been loving right now and spoiler: it’s all about glow.

Is this celebrity beauty brand giving Mel the smoothest hair of her life? We tried...

This week on Beauty IQ Expert, we tackle the topic of morning versus nighttime skincare routines, revealing our non-negotiables (see: SPF) and the common mistakes to avoid. Skin therapist Tegan explains the differences between AM and PM routines, breaking down what products to use, when to use them, and why.

Plus, we give our two (scents) on the juicy fragrances we’ve been loving lately, and the hydrating mists we think are slept on.

Brows before or after foundation? Hair or makeup first? In Win, Bin or Recycle, we settle the beauty debates that have th...

This week on Uncensored, we reveal our *hot* takes on bathhouses and spa rituals, diving in on the good, the weird, and the newsworthy (two words: damp hay). 

We also sit down with Kaitlyn Shin – Director of NU28 Medical Aesthetics – to unpack the global fascination with Korean skincare, and the trending treatments millennials and Gen Z are travelling the globe for. For those who can’t just jet off to Seoul (read: most of us), Kaitlyn shares her tips for recreating a Korean spa experience at home, and maintaining consistent results. 

Plus, we chat about the cult...

This week on Expert, we’re breaking down one of skincare’s most powerful ingredients: Vitamin A, helping you figure out which version is right for your skin.

From over-the-counter retinols to prescription-strength tretinoin and gentle plant-based bakuchiol, skin therapist Tegan explains how each one works, who they suit best, and how to use them safely without wrecking your barrier. Plus, we bust common Vitamin A myths, including whether it actually thins your skin and if it’s safe to use in summer.

In Win, Bin or Recycle, we’re talking retinol body care and whether your...

This week on Uncensored, we’re diving nose-first into the world of scent, from newborn heads and fireplace smoke to… whole-body deodorant.

We kick off with a chat about things that smell good but aren’t perfume before getting into the week’s Cringey Convo: the rise of whole-body deodorant. Are we over-sanitising ourselves? Or just chasing freshness a little too far?

Then, we sit down with Dr Chris Callewaert — better known as Dr Armpit — one of the world’s leading odour researchers, to unpack:

This week on Beauty IQ Expert, we’re diving into preventative skincare: the products, ingredients, and routines to start in your 20s to keep skin healthy, radiant, and resilient for years to come.

Skin therapist Tegan explains why prevention is smarter (and cheaper) than reversing damage later, covering SPF, hydration, antioxidants, and barrier support. From daily sunscreen to antioxidant serums and gentle exfoliation, we break down the must-dos, nice-to-dos, and the mistakes to avoid.

We also answer an Adore Anonymous dilemma: the sweaty underboob — is there a skincare-safe fix? In Win, Bin or Recycle, we explo...

This week on Uncensored, we’re diving into the wild world of cosmetic treatments: the myths, the regrets, and the reality behind what’s “in” and what’s out in 2025.

From Reddit threads questioning whether we’ll one day look back at filler and BBLs like we do tanning beds, to TikTok’s obsession with “baby botox” and skin boosters, the beauty landscape is shifting fast. Hannah and Mel share their predictions (think: suntans and anti-aging culture might not age well), before sitting down with Sydney cosmetic doctor Dr Phoebe Jones to separate fact from fearmongering.

Dr Phoebe breaks...

This week on Beauty IQ Expert, Tegan and Sadaf are shining a light on the body parts we too often forget — starting with your scalp.

We spend so much time caring for the skin on our face, but what about our scalp, ears, elbows, and chest? Skin Therapist Tegan breaks down why scalp exfoliation is trending for all the right reasons, from improving scalp health and reducing build-up to helping your haircare products actually work harder. You’ll also learn how to care for those often-overlooked areas (and why your elbows deserve more love than they get).

This week on Uncensored, Mel puts her money where her hair is with a $750 Texture Haircut by celebrity hairstylist John Pulitano. Was it worth the hype (and the price tag)? We get the full breakdown — from the salon chair nerves, to how it looks five months later, to whether it actually lives up to the promise of being the ultimate low-maintenance cut.

Then, Mel sits down with John himself, co-owner and creative director of Headcase Hair, to talk all things texture. He shares what makes this cut different, why lifestyle matters more than inspo pics, and how th...

This week on Uncensored, Producer Jas turns up the heat (literally) with a live try-on of the VT Reedle Shot Lip Plumper. Tegan braves the Expert strength while Sadaf takes on the Beginner, both powered by teeny-tiny silica needles designed to boost circulation and volume. Sounds cute – until your lips feel like they’ve been sipping on a spicy Szechuan soup.

Next up in Win, Bin or Recycle, we’re debating a beauty tool everyone owns but probably shouldn’t be sharing: your razor. Apologies in advance to Tegan's dad, if you're listening. 

Then, Tegan and Sadaf...

This week on Uncensored: concealer tubes done right, Kris Jenner’s facelifted MAC debut, and why your greys deserve a little more love.

Trending takes on MAC’s headline-making I Only Wear MAC campaign: Kris Jenner, Doja Cat, and Martha Stewart all included. Is it iconic or just unhinged?

Then, a listener in her 20s rings the Beauty IQ Hotline about going grey. We’ve got silver inspo, grey-blending tricks, and the low-effort cover-ups that won’t drain your wallet.

And in PWDKWN, Mel shares her Medik8 dream duo, while Hannah comes armed with the...

This week on Expert, we’re unpacking one of the trickiest (and most misunderstood) skin conditions: perioral dermatitis. It looks like acne, feels a bit like eczema, but it’s neither — and the wrong products can make it even worse.

Skin therapist Tegan knows the struggle firsthand after developing PD during pregnancy. Alongside co-host Sadaf, she shares what it really is, the dos and don’ts of managing a flare, and the simple routine that actually helped calm her skin.

Plus: we confess our spring hygiene habits (be honest, how often are you washing your leggings...

This week on Uncensored, we’re covering everything from hives to highlighters. But first, Mel’s new obsession: the It Smells Crazy In Here Instagram account. Think perfume reviews that are equal parts chaotic and hilarious (peach fart, anyone?).

Then it’s our Cringey Convo, where we unpack the joy (and misery) of hives. Mel and Hannah share their personal stories, what actually worked, and the surprisingly soothing creams that made a difference.

Our PWDKWN this week is Dermalogica’s “bleph in a bottle”: the Phyto Nature Lifting Eye Cream. Is it worth the eye-watering price tag? Hanna...

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 w...

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...

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 th...

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...

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 supp...

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 Beaut...

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, retino...

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 sho...

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:

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 c...