In this provocative interview, NPR host-at-large Elise Hu, author of the new book Flawless: Lessons in Looks and Culture from the K-Beauty Capital, talks about the rise of South Korean pop culture and its effect on global beauty standards. She explains how A.I.-generated photo filters can perpetuate discrimination; why “beauty work” now begins in elementary school; and what you can do to find balance in a culture that equates self-improvement with empowerment. Plus, we discuss how to think critically about new cosmetic treatments such as “trap Botox,” advanced dermal fillers, jaw slimming, calf-reduction surgery, and more.
Below you’ll find a list of some of the people, topics, and products mentioned in this episode. If you have any questions (or just want to say hi), reach out to us on Instagram or TikTok or via email (info@fatmascara.com). And please email us voice memos of your beauty questions and Raise A Wand favorites so we can share them on the show. You can also leave us a voicemail to be featured on a future podcast (our phone number in the U.S. is at 646-481-8182).
Elise Hu
Flawless: Lessons in Looks and Culture From the K-Beauty Capital
The Guardian view on Korean soft power: harder than it looks
Your Own Personal Deepfake: How AIs Put The Glam in Bold Glamour
Tristan Harris - ethicist
South Korean Women 'Escape The Corset' And Reject Their Country's Beauty Ideals
Innisfree Green Tea Sleeping Mask
Missha All-Around Safe Block Essence Sun Milk Spf 50+ Pa+++
Dak Hanmari - Elise’s favorite chicken dish she can only find in Seoul
Constance Wu
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