Gillian Anderson Talks Beauty, Life Lessons & More
I take representation seriously. It’s important to me that how I look in real life is the way I present myself to the world. It’s why I often wear very little make-up on social media and show my normal clothes. I don’t like just showing one version of myself on the red carpet because that’s not my daily reality. Sharing those moments makes it feel more approachable and real, and I enjoy connecting with people through that unfiltered, unpolished side of getting ready.
Mascara is my most used product. I always have L’Oréal’s Voluminous Panorama Mascara in my bag, wherever I am. It gives the best volume and definition, without being clumpy or smudgy.
Becoming a L’Oréal ambassador was a no-brainer. I’ve looked up to all the other ambassadors – Jane Fonda, Viola Davis and Helen Mirren – for so long. I admire their strong, outspoken personalities and activism. I also love that L’Oréal embraces everything these women are – no one has ever had to hide any aspect of themselves for the brand. I really respect and rate that.
Cass Bird, Courtesy Of L’Oréal Paris
Cass Bird, Courtesy Of L’Oréal Paris
Baths are my favourite way to unwind. There’s always a good glug of oil in my tub from Jo Malone London or Le Labo.
My unconventional beauty tip is making lipstick multitask. I use mine as an eyeshadow. People think that’s weird but it’s actually very effective as it doesn’t budge, gives great colour pay-off and gives the eyes a bit of depth – I’m talking neutral tones only though.
Ageing hasn’t slowed me down professionally. I am happy that I still get offered complex and challenging characters despite being in my 50s. I am interested to see whether natural ageing is something the industry – and society – embraces more or less over time, especially with advancements in AI.
Smoky scents are my go-to. There’s a company called Perfumer H which I love for all-natural scents. I also love this Comme des Garçons cologne called ‘Wonderwood’ for its warmth.
Actualising wants and desires is key. Above anything else, I want to encourage women to believe in themselves and to advocate for what they really want in their lives. There’s something quite empowering about the fact that women share the same fears, goals, desires and anxieties – together, we can go after and achieve what we want from life, but it starts with believing that we can and that we deserve it.
Developing a sense of self-worth has taken time. A big part of it is doing things that I can be proud of. I’m a big believer in behaving in ways that hold true to my values – being of service to loved ones, but also sometimes strangers. These things make me feel like a good person, and that only ever increases your sense of self-worth.
Having a skincare routine is relatively new to me. I’ve been quite lazy with it my entire life, but I know now that the right products – particularly at this age – can make a big difference. Cleansing and moisturising are now my two non-negotiables. I really like using L’Oréal’s Age Perfect Serum Duo for its silky-soft consistency. I’ve learnt that great, luminous skin can be as arresting as a full makeover, so it pays to take care of your complexion.
There are two actresses who really inspire me. I know everyone says Meryl Streep, but honestly, she is someone I am in awe of. Her and Cate Blanchett – they’re incredibly well-honed craftswomen.
My desert island product is tinted moisturiser. It makes such a difference, evens everything out yet never feels thick or heavy like foundation can. I swear by it – especially for a bit of glow.
See our quickfire with Gillian Anderson here
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