Podcast Summary: The Beauty Brains - Episode 387: Inflammaging, Eyelash Glue, Estriol, and More

Release Date: January 30, 2025

In Episode 387 of The Beauty Brains, hosts Perry Romanowski and Valerie George delve into a range of intriguing beauty-related topics, providing expert insights into the science behind popular beauty trends and products. This episode addresses questions about eyelash glues, the polymers used in tubing mascaras, the emerging concept of "inflammaging," the efficacy of estriol cream, and strategies for restoring hair's natural texture post-wash. Below is a detailed summary of the key discussions and conclusions.

Personal Anecdotes and Listener Interactions

[00:01 - 05:40]
The episode opens with Perry and Valerie sharing personal stories, including Valerie’s experience with a black eye and Perry’s battle with allergic reactions to bug bites during his trip to Belize. These anecdotes serve to create a relatable and engaging atmosphere before transitioning into the main topics.

1. Eyelash Glues and Occupational Hazards

Listener Question from Adriana [16:11]:
Adriana inquires about the safety of professional eyelash glues, especially concerning prolonged exposure to glue fumes for lash artists. She also seeks recommendations for masks that could filter out harmful chemicals during extended use.

Discussion Highlights:

• Health Risks for Professionals:
  Valerie emphasizes the importance of understanding the chemical composition of eyelash glues, noting that prolonged exposure to volatile compounds can pose occupational hazards.

  Valerie George [17:40]: “Eyelash glues are made to be volatile and evaporate... you're breathing in those things that evaporate.”

• Safety Measures:
  Perry and Valerie recommend using N95 respirator masks or other appropriate respirators with cartridges to mitigate inhalation of harmful fumes. Additionally, they stress the necessity of proper ventilation in workspaces to ensure safety.

  Perry Romanowski [20:02]: “You want to keep an eye on yourself for any kind of symptoms...”

• Regulatory Standards:
  They discuss the role of OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) in regulating workplace safety and the importance of adhering to safety data sheets provided by suppliers.

Conclusion:
While consumers face minimal risk, professionals using eyelash glues daily should implement stringent safety measures, including the use of appropriate masks and ensuring excellent ventilation, to minimize exposure to potentially harmful chemicals.

2. Polymers in Tubing Mascaras

Listener Question from Lucia [21:18]:
Lucia asks about the specific polymers used in tubing mascaras and why certain mascaras are marketed as tubing while others are not, despite containing similar polymers.

Discussion Highlights:

• Functionality of Tubing Mascaras:
  Tubing mascaras utilize film-forming polymers that create water-resistant “tubes” around each lash, which can be easily removed with warm water. In contrast, non-tubing mascaras rely on waxes and pigments that adhere to lashes, requiring more intensive makeup removal.

  Valerie George [22:25]: “Between the end results... it’s just a marketing thing.”

• Marketing vs. Science:
  Valerie points out that the distinction between tubing and non-tubing mascaras is largely a marketing strategy, as both types may contain similar polymers. The perceived differences in performance often stem from how the products are marketed rather than substantial scientific variations.

  Perry Romanowski [24:22]: “There really is no scientific basis necessarily of this tubing and non-tubing. It’s just a marketing thing.”

Conclusion:
The categorization of mascaras into tubing and non-tubing is primarily a marketing tactic. Consumers should be aware that the fundamental polymer compositions may not differ significantly, and the performance claims should be evaluated critically.

3. Inflammaging: Trend or Science?

Listener Question from Kiara [24:26]:
Kiara brings up "inflammaging" and its potential rise as a significant beauty trend in 2025, questioning its scientific validity and practical implications.

Discussion Highlights:

• Definition and Skepticism:
  Valerie expresses strong skepticism toward the term "inflammaging," deeming it a cringe-worthy portmanteau that oversimplifies the complex relationship between inflammation and aging.

  Valerie George [25:24]: “Inflammaging is my most cringe portmanteau... I hate it.”

• Scientific Basis:
  While acknowledging that chronic low-grade inflammation can contribute to the aging process by damaging cellular structures, both hosts argue that the concept is being exploited by the beauty industry to market new products without substantial scientific backing.

  Perry Romanowski [27:01]: “This really sounds like one of those beauty and wellness industry things where they tell you there’s some new problem and then they have a big solution to you.”

• Practical Advice:
  The hosts advocate for proven anti-aging strategies such as consistent use of SPF, maintaining a healthy diet, managing stress, and adhering to basic skincare routines over chasing unverified trends.

Conclusion:
"Inflammaging" appears to be more of a marketing buzzword than a scientifically robust concept. Consumers are advised to focus on well-established anti-aging practices rather than unproven trends.

4. Estriol Cream: Efficacy and Safety

Listener Question from Alicia [31:39]:
Alicia inquires whether estriol cream lives up to its anti-aging claims.

Discussion Highlights:

• Claims vs. Reality:
  Perry and Valerie dissect various claims made by estriol creams, such as reducing fine lines and wrinkles by boosting collagen production. They highlight that creams contain multiple ingredients, making it difficult to attribute benefits solely to estriol.

  Perry Romanowski [32:04]: “...the creams contain petrolatum, occlusive agents, humectants...”

• Regulatory Concerns:
  Valerie raises concerns about estriol cream being marketed without proper prescription, noting its hormonal nature and potential risks if used without medical supervision.

  Valerie George [37:14]: “I would only use Estriol cream when prescribed by a doctor...”

• Market Availability:
  The hosts point out that despite being prescription-only, estriol creams are readily available on platforms like Amazon, indicating lax enforcement of regulations. They caution against using such products without consulting healthcare professionals.

  Perry Romanowski [33:46]: “Online, people can buy all kinds of stuff...”

• Mechanism of Action:
  There is skepticism about the ability of topical estriol to effectively penetrate thick facial skin to deliver meaningful anti-aging benefits.

  Valerie George [36:20]: “...if you were concerned about improving the appearance of your vagina.”

Conclusion:
Estriol creams do not convincingly live up to their anti-aging claims when used topically. The presence of estriol in over-the-counter products poses safety concerns, and consumers are urged to seek medical advice before use.

5. Restoring Hair's Natural Texture and Manageability Post-Wash

Listener Question from Ariel [38:22]:
Ariel faces challenges in maintaining her hair's texture and manageability after shampooing and conditioning, despite using a blend of oils to mimic sebum.

Discussion Highlights:

• Sebum vs. Modern Hair Care:
  Perry explains that while sebum naturally conditions hair, modern hair care products aim for specific aesthetic outcomes, which may require different formulations.

  Perry Romanowski [39:06]: “Sebum is helpful... but modern science is here to help.”

• Product Formulation:
  Valerie suggests experimenting with different shampoos and conditioners, as conditioners often contain cationic surfactants and silicones that can impact hair texture. She also mentions that factors like water quality can affect product performance.

  Valerie George [41:14]: “If your conditioner has behentrimonium chloride...”

• Avoiding Heavy Oils:
  The hosts advise against using heavy oils like jojoba and olive oil for achieving texture, as they can weigh hair down. Instead, lightweight and volatile silicones are recommended for enhancing manageability without flatness.

  Perry Romanowski [42:15]: “Steer clear of the oils...”

Conclusion:
Achieving natural texture and manageability post-wash may require experimenting with different hair care products and formulations. Opting for lightweight conditioning agents and considering external factors like water quality can help in maintaining desired hair texture.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Throughout the episode, Perry and Valerie underscore the importance of critical thinking in the beauty industry, cautioning listeners against succumbing to marketing hype without scientific backing. They advocate for evidence-based beauty practices, emphasizing the need for transparency and regulation in product formulations and claims.

Key Takeaways:

• Be Critical of Marketing Claims: Always evaluate the scientific validity behind beauty product claims rather than relying solely on marketing language.

• Prioritize Safety: Whether it’s occupational safety for beauty professionals or the safe use of hormone-containing products, prioritize informed and safe practices.

• Focus on Proven Practices: Stick to well-established beauty routines and products with proven efficacy rather than chasing the latest trends.

Notable Quotes:

• Valerie George [25:24]: “Inflammaging is my most cringe portmanteau... I hate it.”

• Perry Romanowski [24:22]: “There really is no scientific basis necessarily of this tubing and non-tubing. It’s just a marketing thing.”

• Valerie George [37:14]: “I would only use Estriol cream when prescribed by a doctor because it really can play a role with your hormone levels.”

Support and Engagement:

The hosts thank their listeners for support through Patreon and encourage audience members to submit their questions via email or social media platforms. They emphasize the value of positive reviews and active listener participation in sustaining the show’s independence from advertising.

For more insightful discussions on beauty products and trends, subscribe to The Beauty Brains on your preferred podcast platform and follow them on social media.