Fat Mascara Podcast Episode Summary Episode: Ep. 578: Butt Skincare, Hyaluronic Acid & The Week’s Beauty News
Release Date: May 14, 2025

1. Introduction

In Episode 578 of Fat Mascara, hosts Jennifer Sullivan and Jessica Matlin delve into a wide range of beauty topics, blending insightful discussions with light-hearted banter. Joined by their guest, Garrett Muntz, the episode covers everything from the rising trend of butt skincare to innovative hyaluronic acid applications for eye health.

2. Beta Blockers in the Beauty Industry and Mental Health Implications

[03:01 - 07:29]

The episode opens with a discussion on the use of beta blockers by celebrities to manage anxiety before high-profile events.

• Jennifer Sullivan shares insights about listeners like Dr. Sophie, a pediatrician concerned about teenagers using beta blockers for anxiety, highlighting the temporary symptom relief versus addressing underlying issues:

  "[05:07] Jen Sullivan: ...it's treating the symptoms, but not a fix of the underlying problem."

• Garrett Muntz reflects on the prevalence among celebrities, mentioning figures like Khloe Kardashian and Katy Perry who have publicly discussed their use:

  "[06:05] Garrett Muntz: ...people like Khloe Kardashian, Robert Downey Jr... have all publicly said, I use these."

• The hosts emphasize the importance of addressing mental health holistically rather than relying solely on pharmaceutical interventions.

3. Mental Health Awareness and Industry Response

[07:26 - 44:33]

As the conversation transitions into Mental Health Awareness Month, Garrett announces his plans to pursue a Master of Social Work (MSW) to explore the intersections between beauty and mental health professionally.

• Garrett Muntz shares his motivation, influenced by his work on men's beauty and the mental health crises he observes:

  "[39:22] Garrett Muntz: ...starting grad school in the fall to get a MSW to hopefully professionally explore links between beauty and also mental health."

• The hosts discuss the role of the beauty industry in supporting mental health initiatives, especially in light of reduced governmental funding:

  "[42:35] Jen Sullivan: ...who is gonna fill that in? It feels weird that it might be the beauty industry..."

4. Promotions: Honey Love Shapewear and Ritual HA Supplement

[11:06 - 14:37]

Jennifer and Jessica promote Honey Love, a shapewear brand, highlighting its features:

• Jessica Matlin praises the "Super Power Short" for its targeted compression and comfortable design:

  "[11:40] Jess Sullivan: They've got a super power short that has become my go to..."

Additionally, Jennifer introduces Ritual's HA, a daily supplement for skin health:

• She discusses its benefits, including improved skin elasticity and hydration, supported by clinical studies:

  "[13:24] Jen Sullivan: ...in a clinical study, subjects reported an improvement in skin elasticity, glow and radiance in 90 days..."

5. Butt Skincare Trends and Products

[16:06 - 26:29]

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the burgeoning butt skincare market.

• Garrett Muntz introduces Butt Face, claiming it as the first facial-grade skincare line for buttocks:

  "[16:43] Garrett Muntz: ...they claim to be the first facial grade skincare for your butt."

• Jennifer Sullivan critiques the marketing term "facial grade," arguing that similar active ingredients have long been used in body care:

  "[17:59] Jen Sullivan: ...we need to change the headline. Beauty marketers."

• The discussion extends to Spooge's Cheeky SPF 30, a sunscreen designed specifically for buttocks, addressing the increasing popularity of thong swimwear.

• Both hosts express skepticism about the necessity of butt-specific skincare products, emphasizing that general body lotions suffice for many needs:

  "[17:59] Garrett Muntz: ...I call shenanigans on the fact that it's the first facial grade skincare."

6. Oral Care and Its Link to Blood Pressure

[27:54 - 30:45]

Jennifer brings attention to a study highlighting the connection between antibacterial mouthwash and elevated blood pressure.

• Jen Sullivan explains that killing beneficial oral bacteria can impede the conversion of dietary nitrates to nitrites, essential for maintaining normal blood pressure:

  "[27:54] Jen Sullivan: ...using mouthwash that's killing the bad bacteria, it's also killing the good bacteria..."

• The hosts discuss the rise of probiotic-friendly mouthwashes as alternatives to traditional alcohol-based formulas, citing brands like Boca and Aesop.

• Garrett Muntz underscores the importance of understanding oral health's impact on overall well-being:

  "[28:56] Garrett Muntz: ...more people understood how better oral care could affect your overall health..."

7. Innovative Hyaluronic Acid Injection for Dry Eyes

[31:33 - 36:18]

Jennifer introduces Lacrifyll, a new injectable hyaluronic acid (HA) gel designed to treat dry eyes by filling the canalicular system to retain moisture.

• She explains the procedure and its benefits, noting minimal side effects and the temporary nature of the treatment, lasting six months:

  "[33:19] Jen Sullivan: ...for six months, you don't even have to do anything. No tears. Like..."

• Garrett Muntz expresses intrigue over the application of HA beyond traditional uses like wrinkles and lip plumping, though he questions the terminology:

  "[35:55] Garrett Muntz: I just think that the name is wrong. I think it's fascinating..."

• The hosts ponder future beauty innovations targeting other specific areas, hinting at a never-ending expansion of beauty-focused treatments.

8. Listener Voicemail: Fenty's Hydra Visor Tinted Moisturizer

[49:00 - 57:22]

A listener named Micah from Thomasville, North Carolina, shares her positive experience with Fenty’s Hydra Visor Tinted Moisturizer.

• She praises its non-comedogenic properties suitable for her skin type and appreciates the inclusion of SPF 30:

  "[49:00] Micah: ...the hydra visor tinted moisturizer fits the bill... it has SPF that's 30..."

• Garrett and Jennifer engage in a humorous and light-hearted discussion about barbecue slaw preferences, using Micah's message as a segue.

9. BBQ Slaw Preferences and Beauty Analogies

[50:11 - 56:26]

The hosts transition to a playful debate on the merits of white vs. red slaw in barbecue, drawing analogies to beauty product preferences.

• Garrett Muntz advocates for white slaw as the ideal accompaniment to barbecue, while Jennifer shares her distaste for overly creamy, mayonnaise-laden versions:

  "[52:23] Jen Sullivan: ...the slaw in Pennsylvania is like the creamy ass German esque. It smells like this in Germany too."

• The conversation continues with humorous exchanges about the ideal balance of acidity and creaminess in slaw, emphasizing personal preferences.

10. Final Product Recommendations and Farewells

[56:26 - 58:38]

Wrapping up the episode, Jennifer and Jessica reiterate their favorite beauty products and offer final promotions.

• Blue Lizard Sunscreen and Hers Hair Treatments are highlighted for their effectiveness and ease of use:

  "[45:17] Jess Sullivan: ...go to blue lizardsunscreen.com to find out more..."

• The hosts encourage listeners to rate and review the podcast, submit beauty questions, and share their experiences via email or voice memos.

• Jennifer gives a shout-out to her volunteer work with the Wild Bird Fund, adding a personal touch to the episode.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Jen Sullivan [05:07]: "It's treating the symptoms, but not a fix of the underlying problem."

• Garrett Muntz [06:05]: "People like Khloe Kardashian, Robert Downey Jr... have all publicly said, I use these."

• Jen Sullivan [17:59]: "We need to change the headline. Beauty marketers."

• Garrett Muntz [39:22]: "Starting grad school in the fall to get a MSW to hopefully professionally explore links between beauty and also mental health."

• Jen Sullivan [27:54]: "Using mouthwash that's killing the bad bacteria, it's also killing the good bacteria."

• Garrett Muntz [35:55]: "I just think that the name is wrong. I think it's fascinating..."

Conclusion

Episode 578 of Fat Mascara offers a multifaceted exploration of contemporary beauty trends, mental health considerations within the industry, and innovative product discussions. From the nuanced use of beta blockers among celebrities to the niche market of butt skincare, Jennifer, Jessica, and Garrett provide listeners with both critical insights and engaging conversations. The episode underscores the intricate relationship between beauty and well-being, encouraging a more thoughtful approach to personal care and mental health.