Beautiful in her own skin

Make-up legend Bobbi Brown believes in the power of ‘au naturel’, she tells A Varsha Rao

At a time when red, pouty lips and loud make-up were ruling the roost, Bobbi Brown revolutionised the way women looked at make-up by introducing products suiting all kinds of skin tones and more natural-looking, thus promoting skin confidence. Having worked with the biggest names in the world such as Michelle Obama and Oprah Winfrey, Bobbi Brown is a make-up legend whose iconic beauty line sells products all over the world. A firm believer in ‘less is more’, Bobbi Brown always stresses on the need to highlight one’s natural features. In India recently for India Make Up Show, this global beauty expert got talking about make-up, skincare and more:

What does beauty mean to you?

I have always believed in individual beauty. It’s not about someone else’s ideal definition of beauty, but about being healthy, happy and unique. Find your own style and appreciate who you are.

What kind of make-up would you suggest for the current season of summer?

Show off your skin with sheer products that enhance your natural features and create a glow. A light wash of colour on the lips and cheeks is perfect for this summer.

What are the most common mistakes women make when it comes to make-up?

The mistake I always see is that women don’t test products where they’ll actually be using them. You won’t know you’ve found the right foundation shade from a swatch on your hand. If you want it to look natural, you have to try it on first.

How can one carry their daytime make-up look into the evening or night?

Transitioning from day to night can be really simple. You can add a few coats of black mascara or go with a bold, colourful lip. They key is to not overdo it.

Could you suggest some quick make-up hacks for working women?

My basic routine is a little black eyeliner, a coat of mascara, and a touch of blush. It adds a little more definition and colour to a nude face. You’ll look healthy, natural, and ready to go in about three minutes.

What products should every woman have in her make-up kit?

A hydrating moisturiser, a foundation that blends seamlessly, a black mascara and a lip balm. And probiotics because a healthy gut is a key to clear, beautiful skin.

What do you think will trend in the world of make-up in 2019?

I expect to see more clean brands emerging as a direct result of the concept of ‘beauty from the inside out’. People are starting to realise that what you put inside your body is just as important as what you put on it.

What’s a good night skincare routine to follow?

Always take off your make-up. No matter how late it is or how tired you are, go to bed with a clean face. And keep your skin hydrated. Drinking water and looking for products with key ingredients like hyaluronic acid will keep your skin hydrated while you sleep.

What’s your take on the popular Korean beauty regimes and products?

I’ve always been a minimalist, so for me, the fewer products in my routine, the better. It’s all really about personal preference and the combination of products that work for you and your lifestyle. I do think there are a lot of interesting product innovations coming out of Korea and I always pay attention to what they are coming up with.