Zoë Kravitz Talks Skincare Staples, Signature Scents & Beauty Secrets
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Zoë Kravitz Talks Skincare Staples, Signature Scents & Beauty Secrets

A master of both red-carpet and off-duty style, Zoë Kravitz is the embodiment of effortless cool. Now the face of YSL’s latest Black Opium launch, we sat down with her to find out more about must-have products, non-negotiable treatments and the rituals that keep her grounded…
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YSL

My general philosophy is that less is more – in beauty and in style. That’s something I learnt early on from my mum and it really stuck with me. It doesn’t mean you can’t make bold statements – in fact, I think those moments stand out more when everything else is pared back. Whether it’s beauty or fashion, I like to keep things simple, then dial it up when needed.

A bold lip always feels empowering on the red carpet. One of my favourite recent beauty moments was for the LA premiere of Blink Twice. Nina Park, who’s a genius, did a really minimal base with defined brows and a punchy red lip. It was such a simple look but so strong. I felt like myself – just a slightly more elevated version.

When it comes to skincare, I don’t like to mess with what works. Once I find something that makes my skin happy, I stick to it. I’m a big fan of simple, non-scented products – SkinCeuticals and iS Clinical are my go-tos. I also try to stay hydrated, eat well and let that be the foundation of everything. That way, I can have fun with beauty without overcomplicating my routine.

A clean, no-frills facial always makes me feel my best. There’s a spot I’ve been going to in New York for years called Christine Chin – it’s not the most relaxing experience, but it’s always worth it. Think microdermabrasion, extractions – the works. You leave with really clean, clear skin. It’s simple and it works.

I’m obsessed with my SAUNA AND COLD PLUNGE - it helps me reset MENTALLY AND PHYSICALLY.

YSL

Red light and ice are my skin heroes. I like to keep gadgets to a minimum but I’ve been enjoying using a red light – I find it calming and good for my skin. I also love icing my face. It wakes everything up, shrinks pores, reduces inflammation... It’s a great way to start the day.

The first thing I do every day is light some incense – there’s something grounding about starting the morning that way. Then I’ll make myself a hot drink with lemon and apple cider vinegar, listen to music and slowly ease in. Eventually I’ll have a coffee – a double espresso with frothed almond milk and a little honey – then shower and get going.

Exercise is how I unwind. I’m a night owl, so I’ll usually do a bit of cardio at the end of the day – instead of watching TV, I’ll use that time to burn off some energy. It helps me sleep better and lets me release whatever I’ve been carrying around. If I need a distraction, I’ll throw on a film or catch up on a series like The White Lotus – that always helps the time go faster.

I’m obsessed with my sauna and cold plunge. Anything that gets you sweating and helps release toxins is great. I’m really into the benefits of contrast therapy – it helps me reset mentally and physically. It’s one of those things that doesn’t just feel good in the moment, it has lasting effects.

Hair-wise, I’m low-maintenance. I like styles that don’t require a lot of upkeep. But I’m big on keeping my hair moisturised – I love the May 11 hair oil, and there’s also a beautiful rose oil I get from an Ayurvedic spa in LA called Surya. I use that on my hair and body – the scent is incredible, and it feels really nourishing.

@ZoeIsabellaKravitz

I like the idea that PEOPLE ASSOCIATE A SCENT WITH ME – that when I leave a room or leave something behind, there’s THAT LITTLE REMINDER.

My earliest beauty memory is of my grandmother. She was incredibly feminine and always put together – her red lipstick, her fragrance, the way she carried herself... it all made a big impression on me. My mum’s a little more no-fuss but my grandmother was the first person who showed me how beauty could be a form of self-respect. 

I lived through the over-plucked eyebrow era – and regret it. When I was 15, living in Miami, I plucked my brows super thin; it was very on-trend at the time. Then I went home to visit my mum in LA and she was horrified. She told me if I ever touched them again, she’d kill me – and thank God she did, because they grew back.

Scent is emotional because it’s part of your identity. I tend to stick to the same fragrance for a while. I like the idea that people associate a scent with me – that when I leave a room or leave something behind, there’s that little reminder. It makes it personal and powerful.

If I could only use one product forever, it would be Black Opium. Luckily, I’m surrounded by it – but even if I wasn’t, I’d buy it time and again. I love the balance of notes – it’s sweet and feminine, but grounded and complex, with a kind of earthy coffee undertone. It feels like me.

Black Opium Glitter is all about fun and sensuality. I love the sweetness of the marshmallow note – it feels playful but still sexy. The glittery packaging is just as fun – it adds a bit of joy and glamour to your everyday routine. That’s what I love about the whole Black Opium franchise – it’s mysterious, but never too serious.

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