Podcast Summary: Glad We Had This Chat with Caroline Hirons Episode: S2 Ep20: Nicolas Travis and Caroline Hirons Answer Your Questions
Release Date: January 15, 2025
Host: Caroline Hirons
Guest: Nicolas Travis
Produced by: Wall to Wall Media

Introduction to the Episode

In the 20th episode of Season 2 of Glad We Had This Chat, beauty guru Caroline Hirons is joined by skincare expert Nicolas Travis to address listener-submitted questions. The episode delves into a range of skincare topics, from the efficacy of affordable products to debunking popular TikTok skincare trends. The conversation is candid, humorous, and packed with expert insights aimed at both skincare novices and aficionados.

Affordable vs. High-End Skincare

Timestamp [02:37]

Caroline Hirons (C): "I think it depends on what you're really looking for. So if you're looking for straight up hydration, go for the cheaper option."
Nicolas Travis (B): "Yeah, you're fine."

Caroline and Nicolas discuss the viability of affordable skincare options available at retailers like Boots or Superdrug. They agree that budget-friendly products can effectively address basic skincare needs such as hydration and sun protection. However, for more specialized treatments like prescription tretinoin, higher-end or prescription products are recommended.

Relevance of Skin Type Classifications

Timestamp [03:33]

C: "Oh, I think it's a little, honestly, I think it's a little bit outdated..."
B: "...I think the best way to shop is essentially what your skincare goals are and what actives."

The duo contends that traditional skin type classifications (oily, dry, combination) are becoming obsolete. Instead, they advocate for a focus on individual skincare goals and the active ingredients that address specific concerns. This approach is particularly relevant as skin can change over time, rendering old classifications less applicable.

Repairing a Damaged Skin Barrier

Timestamp [04:23]

C: "If this happened to an Alexis skin... simple is really great. So a simple cleanser."
B: "And you don't have to use album, you can use. Just use a thick moisturizer, seal it with an oil..."

When addressing a listener's concern about a compromised skin barrier due to overuse of retinol, Caroline and Nicolas recommend a minimalist approach. They suggest using a hydrating cleanser, a repair serum like copper tripeptide, a thick moisturizer, and a quality facial oil to reduce water loss and inflammation. Nicolas emphasizes the importance of using retinoids gradually to prevent irritation, stating, "Studies have shown that you could use a low strength one twice a week, three times a week. Over a period of time, you get the same results as using something really strong like every day." [05:29]

Debunking TikTok Skincare Trends

Timestamp [06:04] - [15:06]

The conversation shifts to popular but questionable TikTok skincare trends. Caroline and Nicolas thoroughly debunk several viral claims:

1. Natural Botox:

   • B: "There is no natural Botox. You need a needle." [07:03]
   • They ridicule DIY mixtures claiming to mimic Botox's effects, clarifying that only injected botulism can achieve muscle freezing.

2. Period Facials:

   • B: "Putting menstrual blood on your face is good for your skin..." [09:56]
   • Both guests express strong disapproval, highlighting the absurdity and potential hygiene issues of such practices.

3. Anti-Dandruff Shampoo for Acne:

   • B: "Using anti dandruff shampoo such as Head and Shoulders to treat fungal acne. No." [10:05]
   • They correct the misinformation, recommending medically formulated antifungal shampoos like Nizoral instead.

4. Rice Face Masks:

   • C: "It's too much effort because you have to buy the rice and boil the rice..." [12:01]
   • They suggest simpler alternatives like Manuka honey, emphasizing convenience and efficacy over cumbersome DIY methods.

5. Facial Flooding and Taping:

   • B: "Your skin is a sponge. It absorbs the products much better." [13:00]
     C: "Firstly, it does not rebuild collagen." [13:23]
   • They critique the misconceptions around facial flooding and the ineffectiveness of face taping, advocating for scientifically-backed skincare routines instead.

Skincare Myths and Misconceptions

Throughout the episode, Caroline and Nicolas tackle various skincare myths, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based practices over viral trends. They stress that quick-fix solutions often lack scientific support and can sometimes be detrimental to skin health.

Rapid Fire Q&A

Timestamp [15:12] - [17:19]

The episode concludes with a light-hearted rapid-fire segment where Caroline and Nicolas answer quick-fire questions:

• Dewy or Matte Skin:

  • C: "Dewy Dead. No, it'll do matte." [15:21]

• Brow Gel or Brow Pencil:

  • C: "I don't do anything." [15:29]

• AM Routine or PM Routine:

  • C: "Depends on which country." [15:48]

• Cream Cleanser or Gel Cleanser:

  • C: "Cream in the morning, gel at night." [15:58]

• Eye Cream or Face Oil:

  • C: "Face oil." [16:07]

• Favorite Sandwich:

  • C: "An ice cream sandwich." [17:09]

These responses showcase their personal preferences and add a personable touch to the episode.

Conclusion

In this engaging episode of Glad We Had This Chat, Caroline Hirons and Nicolas Travis provide valuable insights into effective skincare practices while debunking prevalent myths propagated by social media trends. They advocate for a purposeful approach to skincare, focusing on active ingredients and individual skin needs rather than adhering to outdated classifications or unverified DIY remedies. The episode serves as a comprehensive guide for listeners seeking to enhance their skincare routines with expert-backed advice.

Notable Quotes:

• C: "If you're looking for straight up hydration, go for the cheaper option." [02:37]
• B: "Studies have shown that you could use a low strength one twice a week, three times a week. Over a period of time, you get the same results as using something really strong like every day." [05:29]
• C: "Firstly, it does not rebuild collagen." [13:23]
• B: "There is no natural Botox. You need a needle." [07:03]

For more insightful discussions on beauty and skincare, tune in to future episodes of Glad We Had This Chat with Caroline Hirons.