Alicia Keys is a beacon of radiance—particularly in regard to her skin. Since temporarily ditching makeup entirely several years back, Keys has become a touchstone for the self-care revolution, her flawless complexion serving as a luminous billboard for a well-honed above-neck routine. Just today, the performer was spotted in London, a playfully positioned ponytail pulled taut at the crown—all the better to keep the focus on her iconic glow.
"It s really a combination of skincare and makeup," says makeup artist Romy Soleimani, who explains that the best results are achieved through an unending layering of the two approaches. "I m constantly breaking down the makeup with skincare, whether that s a spritz of hydrating mist over a final look or making sure I m using the creamiest, sheerest products," Soleimani says. "Also, paying attention to what the skin is doing that day is important. If [Alicia] has a lovely flush happening I m not going to cover that up with foundation and then apply product blush."
The lesson? Lit-from-within skin requires a truly intentional methodology, one that begins with a commitment to thoughtful maintenance and flourishes when paired with an equally mindful mindset in regard to makeup. Think of the exchange between skincare and makeup as a dialogue rather than two separate monologues, and you re well on your way to a Keys-approved complexion.
