Gloss Angeles Podcast Summary
Episode Title: Inside MAC’s Most Controversial Product Relaunch, Plus a BIG Announcement!
Hosts: Kirbie Johnson and Sara Tan
Release Date: April 15, 2025
1. Introduction
In this engaging episode of Gloss Angeles, co-hosts Kirbie Johnson and Sara Tan dive deep into MAC Cosmetics' highly anticipated reformulation and relaunch of their beloved Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation. The episode is packed with insider information from MAC’s Global Head of Product Development, Tenny Khuragian, and culminates with an exciting announcement about the upcoming People magazine issue.
2. MAC Cosmetics Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation Relaunch
a. Interview with Tenny Khuragian ([03:04] - [20:26])
Why the Reformulation? Tenny Khuragian explains that the decision to reformulate the Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation stemmed from over 30 years of technological advancements and shifting consumer preferences. “We have to deliver the highest quality, highest performing, cleanest products in the market that we can be proud of” ([05:07]).
Key Differences Between Original and New Product:
- Enhanced Performance: The new formula offers 24-hour oil control (previously 8 hours) and 12 hours of wear and color, true wear, ensuring a silky matte finish without fading.
- Ingredient Innovations: Introduction of hydrophobic treated pigments and micro ionized pigments for superior color payoff and skin adhesion.
- Blurred Finish: Incorporation of spherical powders to achieve a more flawless, airbrushed look.
Notable Quote:
"We didn’t look at this as a reformulation. We saw a moment in time... to develop and launch the best powder foundation in the world that anybody had ever seen." – Tenny Khuragian ([05:13])
Removal of Talc: Addressing concerns about talc removal, Tenny clarifies that the primary goal was not to eliminate talc but to leverage advanced ingredients that offer better blurring and skin adhesion. “It was really to develop and launch the best powder foundation the world has seen.” ([09:46])
Packaging Redesign: The new packaging is designed with both artists and consumers in mind:
- Sleek Design: A flat top and refillable system without magnets, using sustainable materials.
- Ergonomic Tools: Updated sponge with a shield design for better application.
- Convenient Refills: Slim refills ideal for artist kits, eliminating the need for depotting.
Notable Quote:
"All you do is you click, oh, the pan. And the pan just comes straight out. No magnets, nothing." – Tenny Khuragian ([18:16])
Shade Range Inclusivity: MAC has revamped its shade nomenclature to align with their most inclusive shade ranges. The new system centralizes shade codes across different product lines, simplifying the shopping experience. Tenny emphasizes the importance of inclusivity: “Shade inclusivity is at the top of our priority list.” ([13:40])
Notable Quote:
"The shades are now always what they were meant to be. They’re more neutral, they’re less colorful. They’re not going to swing too warm. They’re not going to swing too cold." – Tenny Khuragian ([16:13])
Historical Context: Tenny reflects on past MAC reformulations, such as the iconic matte lipstick, highlighting the brand’s commitment to evolving while maintaining beloved products. “We have to bring our consumers the most technologically advanced... cleanest formulations.” ([11:03])
3. Big Announcement: People Magazine’s Most Beautiful Issue
a. Special Guest: Andrea Laventhal ([20:36] - [40:00])
Podcast Recognition: Andrea Laventhal, Executive Director of Special Integrated Projects at People magazine, joins Kirbie and Sara to share exciting news. Their podcast was voted the favorite beauty podcast in a recent poll, leading to its selection for a special feature in the upcoming People issue.
Notable Quote:
“I saw the results, and, like, I have no idea. I put it out in the universe, and I see what the people say, and the people love you. So congratulations, you guys.” – Andrea Laventhal ([21:11])
World’s Most Beautiful Issue: Andrea reveals that Gabby Windy will be the cover star for this prestigious issue. She describes Gabby as “beautiful, sexy, confident, and totally unfiltered,” aligning her with the current zeitgeist. The exclusive interview and photoshoot details will be available first on the People app before the official release on Tuesday, April 22.
Notable Quote:
“Gabby Windy is hysterical and a breath of fresh air in Hollywood. She dictated exactly what she wanted for the shooting.” – Andrea Laventhal ([28:12])
Interactive Poll Discussions: The trio discusses various categories from the fan-voted poll, including:
- Most Daring Beauty Trend: Bleached eyebrows win over mullets and heavy contouring.
- Queen of Nails: Cynthia Erivo takes the crown, praised for her intricate and vibrant nail designs.
- Dinner Date with a Beauty Founder: Rihanna emerges as the favorite, celebrated for her confidence and glamour.
- Biggest Skincare Sin: Popping pimples tops the list, resonating with many listeners.
- Most Iconic Celebrity Beauty Look: Ariana Grande’s ponytail wins, despite suggestions of Taylor Swift’s red lips.
Notable Quote:
“We nailed it, and I won't hear otherwise. When you find out who it is, I want to hear what you guys think.” – Andrea Laventhal ([25:26])
Upcoming Reveals: The final reveal of the People issue cover star will be on Tuesday, April 22, with early access for People app users. Andrea encourages listeners to download the app for exclusive first looks.
Notable Quote:
“The COVID reveal will be Tuesday, April 22. And the first few minutes, the exclusive is on the People app.” – Andrea Laventhal ([39:10])
4. Conclusion
Kirbie, Sara, and Andrea wrap up the episode with anticipation for the People issue release and reflections on MAC’s successful product relaunch. The hosts express their excitement to try the new Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation and congratulate Gloss Angeles on their podcast award.
Closing Remarks: “We are so excited. We are so honored...” – Kirby Johnson ([40:00])
Key Takeaways:
- MAC’s Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation has undergone significant reformulation, enhancing performance, inclusivity, and sustainability.
- Shade range updates simplify the selection process, aligning with contemporary inclusivity standards.
- Gloss Angeles podcast received top honors in a People magazine poll, leading to a feature in their World’s Most Beautiful issue.
- Gabby Windy is the announced cover star, with exclusive content available on the People app.
For listeners interested in beauty trends, product innovations, and exclusive industry insights, this episode offers a comprehensive look into MAC’s strategic product development and an exciting peek into People magazine’s upcoming features.