Make-Up Artist Nikki Wolff Shares Her Skincare Secrets

The Skincare Step I’d Never Skip…

Cleansing, always. There are certain circumstances where it’s totally appropriate to skip serum, eye cream or even moisturiser but cleansing the skin thoroughly before applying make-up is the key to achieving a smooth, even base.

A Skincare Ingredient I Rate…

Everyone chases actives but glycerin is what really keeps skin looking plump, calm and luminous. It’s reliable, non-irritating and quietly does the heavy lifting. Dr. Jart+’s Ceramidin Lotion is a go-to, combining glycerin with ceramides to support the skin barrier and leave it feeling cocooned and comfortable – especially when it’s a little compromised or overworked.

The At-Home Tool That Will Actually Make A Difference…

Consistency is everything. I use the LYMA Pro LED to target ageing, pigmentation and scarring – it helps support collagen and gently tackles a range of concerns. That said, you don’t have to invest: a good facial massage goes a long way. Hands over gadgets, always. Icing is another underrated step – great for de-puffing, boosting circulation and refining pores.

A Treatment I’d Recommend…

I rate lymphatic facials for sculpting – ideal before an event. If you’re open to something more advanced, polynucleotide injections are my go-to for boosting glow and improving texture.

A Throwback Beauty Product I Still Love…

Embryolisse cream. It’s stood the test of time for a reason – it just makes skin look good. No fuss, no trend cycle, just reliable prep.

You Don’t Need To Always Spend A Lot To Get Good Results…

I always come back to simple, no-frills cleansers, French pharmacy staples and straightforward hydrating serums. Bioderma  Micellar Water and La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5 are constants – the latter is a true all-rounder that hydrates and supports the skin barrier.

A Lifestyle Factor I Swear By For Better Skin…

Sleep. Proper sleep. It’s not glamorous but it visibly changes everything – tone, brightness, puffiness. You can fake glow with make-up but you can’t fake being well-rested.

A Golden Rule For Prepping The Skin Ahead Of Make-Up Application…

Allow your skincare to settle. Rushing in leads to pilling, slipping and that ‘make-up sitting on top’ finish. Give it a minute – let everything absorb before you start applying your base.

You Can Find Some Really Brilliant Skincare-Make-Up Hybrids…

Skin tints are a great example – sheer coverage with added benefits. I love the Clarins Double Serum Foundation for a bit more coverage with skincare built in and the ILIA Beauty Super Serum Skin Tint for something sheer, breathable and softly dewy.

Some Current Favourite Buys Include…

SPF: La Roche-Posay make an SPF that is specifically designed for people who suffer from pigmentation. This is my current go-to as I’ve struggled with melasma since my first pregnancy six years ago.

Serum: For clients, I reach for something hydrating and barrier-supporting like MERIT Beauty’s Great Skin Serum. Personally, I swear by the Obagi Vitamin C 15% – brightening, protective and refining.

Cleanser: Gentle but effective – Tatcha’s The Rice Wash.

Moisturiser: Texture-dependent but always nourishing. Clé de Peau Beauté’s La Crème for something luxe or Lancôme’s Absolue Crème Riche for rich, comforting hydration.

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