Here’s a new video that covers what SPF means, and debunks a couple of SPF myths: Why SPF doesn’t mean how many times longer you can stay in the sun Why higher SPF is more effective (and not just 1% more effective) I’ve talked about the first myth before in this post on SPF and UV index, but I haven’t …
I’ve made a new video about antioxidants in skincare – it’s based on this post from a while ago: Antioxidants in Skincare: What Do They Do? In the video, I talk about: What free radicals are How they’re linked to skin damage Where free radicals come from How antioxidants work Which antioxidant ingredients have been studied in clinical trials Tips on …
I’ve been really nervous and excited about this for the last few weeks, and the day is finally here: I’m launching my first eBook, The Lab Muffin Guide to Basic Skincare! As you all probably know I’m a massive skincare nerd, and I love researching and writing about it (in case you couldn’t tell from the last 7 years of …
This post was originally published on the now sadly defunct awesome website The Toast in 2014. A reader suggested that I repost it on Lab Muffin… which I thought I did, but apparently that was all a fever dream. Here it is! There’s soap in your mayonnaise! As a scientist with a degree in chemistry, the surge in chemophobia over …
One of the common reader requests I get is for “toxic” ingredient breakdowns, so today I’m looking at two ingredients that are commonly on “avoid” lists: propylene and butylene glycol. What are propylene and butylene glycol? Glycols in chemistry are ingredients that contain two OH (alcohol) groups. Propylene glycol contains 3 carbon atoms, while butylene glycol is a little larger …
Here’s a pet peeve of mine: SPF drops and boosters. Fellow skincare fanatic Hannah (@ms_hannah_e on Instagram) reminded me about them recently, right when I was in a ranty mood, so it fit right in. What Are SPF Sunscreen Drops? SPF Sunscreen Drops are products that you’re supposed to mix into other products to “turn them into sunscreens”. Some examples …
If you’re after a new brand of targeted serums at reasonable prices, without controversial marketing, Skin Deva might be up your alley! This brand (which has free shipping in the US, although they ship worldwide as well) has a range of simple serums containing 1 or 2 evidence-backed ingredients only. I personally prefer to use these sorts of targeted serums in …
As I discuss in my upcoming eBook, The Lab Muffin Guide to Basic Skincare, it’s important to keep a record of your skincare routine and skin condition. It’s a fantastic way to help you figure out what’s actually working for your skin, and track the products and ingredients that your skin reacts to. One really useful tool that you can …