Breaking Beauty Podcast - Episode Summary

Title: Loading ⏳Our #DamnGood Hot Girl Summer 2025 Faves. Plus! SPF “Doping” On Blast
Release Date: June 18, 2025
Hosts: Jill Dunn and Carlene Higgins
Duration: Approximately 49 minutes

1. Pride Month and Beauty Brand Support

Timestamp: 02:37 – 04:18

Jill and Carlene kick off the episode with a discussion on Pride Month, expressing disappointment in the limited support from beauty brands this year. Jill highlights the consistent support from brands like MAC Cosmetics and Sephora, praising their authentic and ongoing commitment. In contrast, she criticizes other brands for being quiet during Pride Month. Carlene agrees, noting the superficiality of some campaigns and the inconsistency in brand messaging.

Notable Quotes:

• Jill Dunn [02:55]: "There are a lot of other brands that are very quiet."
• Carlene Higgins [04:05]: "It's a happy Pride Month from us to you."

2. Summer Product Faves

a. POV Beauty by Michaela Makeup

Timestamp: 08:17 – 15:26

The hosts delve into the success of POV Beauty by Michaela Makeup, emphasizing its rapid sell-out rates. They discuss the brand's unexpected pivot from makeup to skincare, which has intrigued consumers. Jill reviews her favorite product, the Drench It Soothing Priming Milk, praising its hydrating properties and versatility. Carlene shares her own experience, mentioning the product's lightweight texture and suitability for sensitive skin.

Notable Quotes:

• Carlene Higgins [08:29]: "This stuff is flying off the shelves."
• Jill Dunn [09:24]: "It's very hydrating and it's got a potent blend."

b. Paula’s Choice Limited Edition 2% BHA Exfoliating Toner Pads

Timestamp: 20:44 – 24:05

Jill introduces her favorite Paula’s Choice Limited Edition Biodegradable 2% BHA Exfoliating Toner Pads. These pre-soaked pads are acclaimed for their ability to unclog pores and soothe acne-prone skin without causing dryness or irritation. Carlene appreciates the convenience of the biodegradable sachets, although Jill expresses some skepticism about their true biodegradability.

Notable Quotes:

• Jill Dunn [21:01]: "They are pre-soaked with the cult favorite salicylic acid formula."
• Carlene Higgins [22:21]: "This is literally just a swipe away."

c. Sunscreen and SPF “Doping”

Timestamp: 24:05 – 35:54

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to discussing sunscreen, particularly the concept of SPF “doping.” Carlene examines Ultraviolet's Future Fluid Super Light Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+, highlighting its modern formulation and lightweight texture. They critique the marketing tactics that blur the lines between mineral and chemical sunscreens, pointing out the inclusion of ethyl hexyl methoxycinnamate—a chemical filter—in a product marketed as "100% mineral."

The hosts also address recent controversies, including Ultraviolet's conflicting SPF test results and the backlash against Primally Pure's billboard campaign criticizing chemical sunscreens. They emphasize the importance of transparency in sunscreen formulations to help consumers make informed choices.

Notable Quotes:

• Carlene Higgins [27:04]: "There's nothing necessarily wrong with this formula."
• Jill Dunn [31:33]: "There’s always so much to talk about."

3. Summer Lip Products

a. Dior Lip Glow Butter

Timestamp: 38:00 – 41:21

Jill shares her enthusiasm for the Dior Lip Glow Butter Hydrating Gloss Bomb, highlighting its ability to adjust to individual lip colors. Carlene discusses its trendy appeal, especially when paired with popular fashion accessories like labu-boos.

Notable Quotes:

• Jill Dunn [38:27]: "It adjusts to your skin tone."
• Carlene Higgins [41:21]: "I have the regular lip glow in my purse as well."

b. Glow Recipe’s Glass Balm

Timestamp: 41:21 – 42:27

Jill introduces Glow Recipe's Glass Balm, designed to mimic the "glass skin" trend for lips. She praises its shiny finish and fruity flavors, although some users have reported a grainy texture similar to other products in the market.

Notable Quotes:

• Jill Dunn [41:33]: "It's meant to mimic like glass skin, but for your lips."

c. Hermes Rouge Brilliant Silky Lipstick

Timestamp: 42:03 – 44:19

Carlene highlights the Hermes Rouge Brilliant Silky Lipstick in vivid summer shades like orange flash and hot pink. She appreciates the balance between sheen and pigment, noting its elevated texture that avoids a "cheesy shine."

Notable Quotes:

• Carlene Higgins [42:07]: "They are really, really nice."
• Jill Dunn [44:19]: "I have the regular lip glow in my purse as well."

4. French Pharmacy Finds

a. Nox Ul Oil Roll-On Dry Oil

Timestamp: 44:36 – 46:43

Jill reviews the revamped Nox Ul Oil, now available in a convenient rollerball format. She praises its suitability for applying to legs, highlighting its non-oily finish and delightful beach-inspired scent. The rollerball design offers ease of use compared to the traditional glass bottle.

Notable Quotes:

• Jill Dunn [45:14]: "This is going to be my summer staple for getting like glowy, gorgeous legs."
• Carlene Higgins [46:03]: "It looks like one of those old school rollerballs from the '80s."

b. Josie Moran Golden Hour Whipped Argan Oil Body Butter

Timestamp: 46:43 – 48:25

Carlene introduces the Josie Moran Golden Hour Whipped Argan Oil Body Butter as an alternative to Sol de Janeiro's popular products. She describes it as a richer, oil-forward formula ideal for dry areas like elbows and knees. The body butter features ingredients like argan oil, avocado oil, and shea butter, delivering a luxurious feel without overpowering fragrance.

Notable Quotes:

• Carlene Higgins [47:12]: "It's a cream to an oil formula."
• Jill Dunn [48:00]: "So if you're in France, you can check it out there."

5. Closing Remarks

Timestamp: 48:30 – 49:37

Jill and Carlene conclude the episode by directing listeners to their website for detailed product links, exclusive promo codes, and encouraging them to leave reviews on Apple Podcasts. They also promote their newsletter and social media channels for ongoing engagement.

Notable Quotes:

• Jill Dunn [48:50]: "Please do leave us a review on Apple podcasts."
• Carlene Higgins [49:19]: "You can even leave us a voicemail at any time with questions or feedback."

Highlights and Insights

• Authenticity in Brand Support: The hosts emphasize the importance of genuine brand commitment, especially during events like Pride Month, criticizing superficial marketing tactics.

• Innovative Product Formats: The evolution of product packaging, such as the rollerball dry oil, showcases the industry's response to consumer convenience without compromising product efficacy.

• Sunscreen Transparency: A significant focus is placed on the need for clear labeling and honest marketing in sunscreens, addressing consumer confusion between mineral and chemical formulations.

• Trend Revival: The resurgence of vivid lip colors and the integration of accessories like labu-boos reflects dynamic trends shaping summer beauty looks.

Conclusion

This episode of the Breaking Beauty Podcast offers a comprehensive overview of top summer beauty products, insightful critiques of industry practices, and a deep dive into current trends. Jill and Carlene provide listeners with valuable recommendations while fostering an informed and engaged beauty community.

For more detailed information on the products mentioned and exclusive promo codes, visit breakingbeautypodcast.com.