
Clean Beauty School
A beauty podcast from mindbodygreen, the leading brand in health and well-being. Hosted by mbg’s beauty director, Alexandra Engler, Clean Beauty School explores the intimate and intricate relationship between beauty and wellness, including physical, mental, environmental, and spiritual health. Through this series, we’ll dive into the science and soul of beauty’s most pressing topics.
Latest episodes

Oct 25, 2022 • 50min
81: The clean beauty backlash | tech & beauty expert Jaleh Bisharat
“It’s positioned as empowering for the consumer to ‘do their research’ on ingredient lists, but I actually think it ends up being disempowering. You need an advanced degree in chemistry to keep up with the ingredients, formulas, and latest research. How can we expect the average consumer to do that?” says Jaleh Bisharat, founder of beauty e-retailer NakedPoppy. “And unfortunately there’s just not as much independent research as we need. There’s a lot of data holes.” In this episode of Clean Beauty School, mindbodygreen beauty director and host Alexandra Engler chats with Bisharat about how machine learning can improve the beauty shopping experience, why the consumer shouldn't need to be “armchair chemists” to shop smarter, and leaving the world a little more beautiful than you found it. Plus, we get into the backlash against the “clean” beauty movement.Show notes:-Follow Jaleh Bisharat & NakedPoppy-Read the Untethered Soul: The Journey Beyond Yourself -Bisharat’s meditation app of choice: Calm app -Titanium dioxide’s safety concerns in food vs. topical use -The precautionary principle -Read more about topics mentioned in this episode: preservatives in skin care, how to apply blush, cream blush, how to enhance sleep, identifying undertones, benefits of gardening, fitness for mental health.-Shop products mentioned in this episode: NakedPoppy Nourish Cream Cleanser, Awakening Eye Cream, Revitalize Organic Facial Oil, Clean Liquid Eyeliner, Indie Lee Brightening Cleanser, Fit Glow Beauty Sea Ceramide Toning Mist, Correct+, Suntegrity 5-in-1 Tinted Sunscreen Moisturizer, 27 Rosiers Ready Selfie Go – Fresh Face Instant Mask, Ma Crème – Intense Youth Preserving Moisturizing Balm, Clove + Hallow Conceal + Correct, Eyes That Tok Lash Enhancing Mascara, ATHR The Big Bang Mascara, Kosas Color & Light Creme, Rituel de Fille Forbidden LipstickTake 20% off glow from the inside out bundle+ with code BEAUTYPOD. Cannot combine with gift cards or other discount codes. Apply code at checkout.Follow the host: @alex_blair_Call in: sayhi.chat/cleanbeautyschool Comments: podcast@mindbodygreen.comSponsorship inquiries: sales@mindbodygreen.com

Oct 18, 2022 • 50min
80: Makeup tips for aging skin & less-is-more beauty | makeup artist Jenny Patinkin
“Beauty doesn’t need to be as overwhelming as we are conditioned to think it should be,” says makeup artist Jenny Patinkin, who literally wrote the book getting that no-fuss, yet polished makeup look. And one of the main takeaways she tries to share with her clients? Don’t get too caught up in arbitrary, overly-strict rules: “Beauty is about moderation. I’ve never subscribed to the ‘you shoulds’ & ‘you musts.’” In this episode of Clean Beauty School, mbg beauty director and host Alexandra Engler chats with Patinkin about finding your signature detail, little makeup touches that can go a long way, and why we need to rethink consumer culture in beauty. Show notes:-Follow Jenny Patinkin-Check out her brand, Jenny Patkinkin Beauty -Buy her book Lazy Perfection: The Art Of Looking Great Without Really Trying Read more about topics mentioned in this episode: cream blushes, how to apply blush, eyebrow shapes, how to apply eyeliner, how to apply concealer, how to use makeup sponges, imperfect makeup (a.k.a, “indie sleaze”), lash curlers.-Shop products mentioned in this episode: Jenny Patinkin Brush Set, Lazy Perfection Eyelash Curler, Skin Smoothing Dermaplaning Set, Pure Luxury Makeup Sponge Duo, RMS ReEvolve Natural Liquid Foundation, MOB Beauty Cream Clay Eyeshadow, Blush, Bronzer, Maya Chia Advanced Response Complex Neck and Face Cream, Le Prunier Plum Beauty OilTake 20% off glow from the inside out bundle+ with code BEAUTYPOD. Cannot combine with gift cards or other discount codes. Apply code at checkout.Follow the host: @alex_blair_Call in: sayhi.chat/cleanbeautyschool Comments: podcast@mindbodygreen.comSponsorship inquiries: sales@mindbodygreen.com

Oct 11, 2022 • 42min
79: Hair loss, dandruff & scalp irritation | board-certified dermatologist Iris Rubin, M.D.
“I believe hair care is skin care: Hair products can get on the skin and clog the pores, irritate and dry the skin, or cause eczema and other skin diseases. And in some cases these scalp concerns can even lead to hair shedding,” says Harvard-trained board-certified dermatologist Iris Rubin, M.D. who specializes in scalp health; she’s the founder of SEEN Hair Care, a beauty brand designed to be non-irritating for the scalp and skin. In this episode of Clean Beauty School, mbg beauty director and host Alexandra Engler chats with Rubin about COVID-related hair loss, hairline acne, and how allergens may impact your hair growth. Show notes:-Follow Iris Rubin, M.D. and Seen Hair Care -About the Harvard hair shedding study -Hair follicle and fiber basics-Types of hair loss & alopecias -Dandruff pathology-Fraxel laser -LightStim-Read more about topics discussed in this episode: scalp acne, hairline acne, hair loss, shedding vs. hair loss, how much hair should you lose every day, hair loss in women, hair loss in men, stress reduction techniques, how to make hair grow faster, nutrients that affect hair loss, dry shampoo effects, how often should you shampoo, silicones in hair care, dandruff, salicylic acid shampoos, hair color safety, caring for gray hair, at home hair color.-Shop products mentioned in this ep: SEEN Fragrance Free Shampoo, SEEN Fragrance Free Conditioner, SEEN Face Wash, Skinceuticals C+E+Ferulic Acid, CeraVe Moisturizing CreamTake 25% off postbiotic body lotion with code BODYLOTIONPOD. Cannot combine with gift cards or other discount codes. Apply code at checkout.Follow the host: @Alex_Blair_Comments: podcast@mindbodygreen.comSponsorship inquiries: sales@mindbodygreen.com

Oct 4, 2022 • 52min
78: The ultimate brow episode | Brow specialist Joey Healy
“I really do believe in the foundations of beauty, which are skin, teeth, brows, and hair. If you care and focus on those foundations, if you embrace the things that are working for you, then you can build out from there in any direction you want. But first you need to pay attention to the basics to build a strong foundation,” says brow specialist Joey Healy, owner of his eponymous brow salon and brand. In this episode of Clean Beauty School, mbg host and beauty director Alexandra Engler chats with Healy about the basics of brow care, ingredients that may be irritating the hair fibers, how to grow back struggling strands, and what brow products you need to have in your arsenal. Show notes:-Follow Joey Healy-Read Talk Of The Team-Research on peptides and eyebrow growth -Read more about topics mentioned in this episode: Eyebrow threading, eyebrow growth, how long it takes to grow back brows, bleached brows, how to trim eyebrows, eyebrow shapes, dying eyebrows, brow lamination, eyebrow tinting, microshading your brows, eyebrow growth serums, castor oil for brows, peptides, hyaluronic acid, benzoyl peroxide, niacinamide, vitamin c, retinol-Shop products mentioned in this episode: Joey Healy Brow Renovation System, Luxe Brow Powder, Brow Structure Clear Gel,Brow Lacquer, Brow Architecture Stylo, InnBeauty Project Green Machine Serum, Elta MD UV Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 46, Drunk Elephant B-Hydra Intensive Hydration Serum, Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Night SerumTake 20% off glow from the inside out bundle+ with code BEAUTYPOD. Cannot combine with gift cards or other discount codes. Apply code at checkout.Follow the host: @Alex_Blair_Comments: podcast@mindbodygreen.comSponsorship inquiries: sales@mindbodygreen.com

Sep 27, 2022 • 52min
77: Optimizing skin health, biotech & testing | Skin health expert Barb Paldus, Ph.D.
“My background is in biotech, where we share all our data, equipment, and results. And when I tried to get the same info from beauty companies, I was met with silence,” says Barb Paldus, Ph.D., founder of Codex Labs. “It’s common in other industries, too. If you go to buy a microwave, it will tell you the wattage. If you buy a box of cereal, it will have a nutrition panel. The beauty industry doesn't operate like that, and I think that’s a problem.” In this episode of Clean Beauty School, mindbodygreen beauty director Alexandra Engler chats with Paldus about how she moved from biotech into the beauty industry, the changes she wants to see in the space, why we must consider the skin microbiome health when using beauty products, and how to optimize skin health through diet. Plus, she explains the testing protocols for personal care products (or lack thereof). Show notes:-Learn more about Barb Paldus, Ph.D.-Follow Codex Labs -Research about about epidermal function in health & compromised skin-Understanding your skin barrier function-Current research on the skin microbiome -The gut-skin connection-Learn more about FDA regulations for the cosmetic industry-FDA’s role in product testing-More about MyMicrobiome test-All about thalassotherapy -Read more about topics discussed in this episode: Skin microbiome 101, skin barrier, moisture barrier, acid mantle. -Shop products mentioned in this episode: Codex Labs Bia Exfoliating Face Wash, Bia Hydrating Skin Superfood, Antü Skin Barrier Moisturizer, Antü Skin Barrier Night Cream, Shaant Balancing Clay Mask, Balancing Refining Toner, Balancing Oil Control CreamTake 25% off postbiotic body lotion with code BODYLOTIONPOD. Cannot combine with gift cards or other discount codes. Apply code at checkout.Follow the host: @alex_blair_ Comments: podcast@mindbodygreen.comSponsorship inquiries: sales@mindbodygreen.com

Sep 20, 2022 • 53min
76: The ultimate guide to pregnancy safe skin care | board-certified dermatologist Sam Ellis, M.D.
“If there's any time to invest in yourself, it's during pregnancy. I mean, what a responsibility: You are growing a human being. It’s a hugely important time to pamper yourself because there are so many days that are so hard and even during postpartum. So if you need a pickup? I’m going to endorse that fully,” says board-certified dermatologist Sam Ellis, M.D. In this episode of Clean Beauty School, mindbodygreen beauty director and host Alexandra Engler chats with Ellis about the complicated nature of “pregnancy-safe” skin care, her journey as a new mom, and why pregnant people should give themselves some grace. Show notes:-About board-certified dermatologist Sam Ellis, M.D.-Follow Ellis on YouTube and Instagram-The AAD on skin care ingredients during pregnancy-Research on acne during pregnancy -Hormone changes during pregnancy-Read more about topics mentioned in this episode: Retinol, salicylic acid, alpha hydroxy acids, lactic acids, glycolic acids, stretch mark creams, zinc oxide, stress acne, collagen, elastin, vitamin E, shea butter, vitamin C, double-cleanse, oil-cleanser, LED face masks. -Shop products mentioned in this episode: Body Glide, SkinCeuticals C+E+Ferulic -Read mbg’s featured articles: our new sleep-focused series The Wind Down, one of my favorite series Healthy Planet, Healthy You which is about being eco-conscious, and all about breakup hair.We’re having our first ever mindbodygreen birthday sale! Save up to 30% off across all our supplements and personal care products when you visit shop.mindbodygreen.com.Follow the host: alex_blair_Comments: podcast@mindbodygreen.comSponsorship inquiries: sales@mindbodygreen.com

Sep 13, 2022 • 50min
75: A supermodel's daily health & beauty habits | Miranda Kerr
"I believe strongly in the mind, body, skin connection. Even what you think affects the skin at the cellular level,” says supermodel Miranda Kerr, founder of Kora Organics. “For example, sometimes when I meditate I sit on the grass outside and open my palms to the sun to receive that energy. I want to welcome that energy into the body, and show gratitude for it.” Kerr is a bonafide wellness and beauty expert, just listen to the episode to hear for yourself. In this episode of Clean Beauty School, mbg beauty director and host Alexandra Engler chats with Kerr about becoming a certified health coach, how she infuses mindfulness into small acts throughout the day, and her daily habits to feel balanced. Show notes:-Follow Miranda and Kora Organics-Learn more about Ecocert Certified Organics -What it means to be a Certified Health Coach and the Integrative Nutrition program & Stanford’s Coursera -Research about antioxidant content of organic ingredients-Read more from David Hawkins: Power Vs. Force, The Map Of Consciousness Explained -Read more about topics mentioned in this episode: Antioxidants, mind-skin connection, essential oils, aromatherapy, palo santo, rose oil, crystal healing, rose quartz, amethyst, celery juice, benefits of plant-based diets, meditation, dry brushing, turmeric, benefits of vitamin C, vitamin C serums, benefits of retinol, how to practice guasha-Shop products mentioned in this episode: Kora Organics Milky Mushroom Gentle Cleansing Oil, Turmeric Glow Foaming Cleanser, Turmeric Brightening & Exfoliating Mask, Minty Mineral Hydrating Mist, Noni Bright Vitamin C Serum, Active Algae Lightweight Moisturizer, Turmeric Glow Moisturizer, Berry Bright Vitamin C Eye Cream, Noni Radiant Eye Oil, Noni Glow Face Oil, Noni Glow Sleeping Mask, Rose Quartz Heart Facial Sculptor, Noni Glow Body Oil, Invigorating Body Scrub, Renewing Hand and Body Wash, Renewing Hand and Body LotionWe hope you enjoy this episode, sponsored by Avocado’s new body + skin line. To learn more about their plant-based skincare, click here!Follow the host: alex_blair_Comments: podcast@mindbodygreen.comSponsorship inquiries: sales@mindbodygreen.com

Sep 6, 2022 • 49min
74: How to be a better beauty consumer | beauty expert Jenn Harper
“Our home, this earth, is a gift and we've really not done a great job of caring for it as human beings,” says Jenn Harper, the founder of Cheekbone Beauty (a certified B-Corp company). Harper is Anishinaabe, an indigenous group native to North America, which she says has influenced much of her relationship with beauty, the earth, and how she defines success. In this episode of Clean Beauty School, mbg beauty director and host Alexandra Engler chats with Harper about the current challenges in finding sustainable packaging, how to be a better beauty consumer, and why we should all redefine what success actually looks like. Show notes:-Follow Jenn Harper & Cheekbone Beauty -Read The Power Of Habit by Charles Duhigg-Learn more about forced assimilation of indegnous Canadians -Support indegnous communities through these various organizations-Learn more about B Corp -Read more about topics mentioned in this episode: Resveratrol, Shea butter for skin -Shop products mentioned in this episode: Cheekbone Beauty Sustain Lipstick, Sustain Lipgloss, Sustain Brow Gel, Sustain Complexion Pencil Trigger warning: This podcast includes mentions of suicide. You're never alone. If you or someone you know are struggling, call the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or visit suicidepreventionlifeline.org. Follow @alex_blair_ and @mindbodygreenComments: podcast@mindbodygreen.comSponsorship inquiries: sales@mindbodygreen.com

7 snips
Aug 30, 2022 • 46min
73: What the West got wrong about Korean Beauty | Skin care experts Christine Chang & Sarah Lee
“One of the most important things you can do is to educate yourself on some of the key skin care ingredients and how they work with your skin: Because maybe there’s a product that’s formulated for your skin type or concern, but it contains an ingredient that doesn’t work well for you. [It’s important to have a] deeper understanding and deeper relationship with your skin,” says Sarah Lee. In this episode of Clean Beauty School, mbg beauty director and host Alexandra Engler chats with Korean Beauty experts and founders of Glow Recipe Christine Chang and Sarah Lee. The trio talk about how to stay on top of the beauty zeitgeist, what Western beauty media got wrong about Korean Beauty, and why we need to limit interacting with “perfect, flawless” images on our social media feeds. Show notes:-Follow Christine Chang & Sarah Lee (and Glow Recipe!)-Read some recent stories published by the mbg beauty team: As Of Late with Norma Kamali, A Beauty Breakdown on Acne, a guide to “Indie Sleaze”, and introducing our new travel series Well Traveled -Read more about topics mentioned in this episode: Watermelon for the skin, how to layer skin care, skin barrier, sensitive skin, BHA and AHA, salicylic acid, PHA, hyaluronic acid, skin tints, tinted SPF. -Shop products mentioned in this episode: Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Sleeping Mask, Strawberry Smooth BHA + AHA Salicylic Acid Serum, Avocado Ceramide Recovery Serum, Papaya Sorbet Enzyme Cleansing Balm, Watermelon Glow PHA + BHA Pore-Tight Toner, Plum Plump Hyaluronic Acid CreamTake 25% off vitamin C potency+ with code VITAMINCPOD. Cannot combine with gift cards or other discount codes. Apply code at checkout.Follow @alex_blair_ and @mindbodygreenComments: podcast@mindbodygreen.comSponsorship inquiries: sales@mindbodygreen.com

Aug 23, 2022 • 54min
72: Celeb beauty, indie sleaze & the new wave of vitamin C | guest host & mbg beauty editor Jamie Schneider
We’re back with another special beauty catch up episode with mindbodygreen’s beauty editor Jamie Schneider. In it, mbg beauty director and host Alexandra Engler and Schneider chat about what’s been happening in the beauty industry lately. A few highlights? What celebrity-founded beauty products are actually worth the money, what innovative ingredients are on the horizon, who to follow to get beauty news, and why Y2K Tumblr-grunge is back. Then they get to what products they’re using lately and questions submitted by folks in the mbg community. A must-listen episode for clean beauty fans. Show notes:-DM your questions to Alex or Jamie to be featured on a future episode -Read up on Jamie’s latest work-Why derm-owned brands are the new celeb-owned brands-NIH on LED light technology for skin safety -More information on LED light-Read more about topics mentioned in this episode: Best blushes, how to apply blush, best eyeliners, how to apply eyeliner, clean girl aesthetic, vitamin c for skin, best vitamin c serums, how to promote natural collagen production, how to apply concealer, oil control tips, best concealer options, niacinamide, primer upgrades, LED facials, LED light therapy for health, best LED light masks, sun care, types of facials. -Shop products mentioned in this episode: Skin Proud Frozen Over Moisturizer, Fresh Tea Elixir Skin Resilience Activating Serum, Youthforia Pregame Primer, Youthforia BYO Blush, Relevant One & Done Everyday Cream, Kjaer Weis Primer, Susanne Kaufmann Boosting Liquid Mask, APTO Skincare Turmeric Mask with Azelaic Acid, Twenty/Twenty Beauty, Saie Airset, Keys Soul Care Comforting Tinted Lip Balm, JVN Deep Moisture Mask, Rose Inc Cream Bronzer, Rhode peptide lip treatment, Rhode barrier restore cream, Dr. Dennis Gross Vitamin C Lactic collection, Ole Henriksen Banana Bright + Eye Cream, Ilia Beauty C Beayond Triple Serum SPF 40, Shiseido Waso Yuzu-C Sleeping MaskTake 25% off daily detox+ with code DETOXPOD. Cannot combine with gift cards or other discount codes. Apply code at checkout.Follow the host: @alex_blair_Call in: sayhi.chat/cleanbeautyschool Comments: podcast@mindbodygreen.comSponsorship inquiries: sales@mindbodygreen.com