Makeup mogul Bobbi Brown, known for championing a natural aesthetic and clean ingredients, has shared her views on achieving a perfect glow, emphasizing authenticity over artificial sculpting. Brown, 69, who rose to prominence by challenging the bold makeup trends of the 1980s and early '90s with her understated lipstick shades, continues to advocate for a "no-makeup makeup" approach.
"There are two completely different schools: the no-makeup makeup school, which I’ve always been a fan of and helped create, and the stronger, contour-focused makeup school," Brown told the Daily Mail. "You choose a door. Most people who follow me want to know the no-makeup makeup approach. How to look like yourself, but better."
Brown clarified that the natural look does not necessarily mean using fewer products. Instead, it involves selecting the appropriate colors and textures to enhance one's natural appearance. "For example, the foundation is the exact tone, and the formula provides coverage without looking like you’re wearing anything, just even, healthy skin," she explained.
She expressed a critical view of contouring, stating, "However, many people prefer contouring to create the illusion of a more sculpted face or a thinner nose, but often it can end up looking like dirt on the face. Plus, it sends the message to women that they’re not okay as they are."
Brown, who has since launched her clean beauty brand Jones Road, prefers looks that accentuate natural features, such as freckles or glowing skin complemented by minimal eye makeup. "I love when I see a woman with a full face of freckles, not covered up, and a lip or liner to counterbalance the freshness of the face," she said. "I also love glowing skin with expertly applied concealer and blush, minimal eye makeup, and very dark mascara. Basically, I like pretty."
Looking back at her career, which began with a chemist who helped her create her signature lipstick shades, Brown noted the strategic similarities between her early days and the launch of Jones Road. "Strategically, it’s been very similar to when I first started, doing things simply, scrappily and my way, which is exactly how I started Bobbi Brown Cosmetics," she stated. "Emotionally, it’s so much easier now, and so much more fun, because of all the knowledge I’ve gained. I know what to do, and more importantly, I know what not to do."
She also addressed the concept of anti-aging, questioning its meaning and advocating for a focus on feeling good to look better. "What does anti-aging really mean, anyway? I believe that when people focus on looking better because they feel better, it’s a win-win," Brown said.
Brown, who has embraced aging, advises women looking to make a career change to remain persistent. "Just know that anything is possible, and nothing is easy. You have to keep moving forward, even when you see obstacles. You’ve got to figure out how to go around them," she remarked. She also expressed frustration with the notion that a single cream can magically fix skin issues like wrinkles. "The best thing about life experience is realizing that a lot of the things that used to drive me crazy don’t bother me anymore," she added, noting her current more relaxed approach to her own beauty routine.