Although our February cover star may be partially responsible for the rise of the #NoMakeup movement, Alicia Keys defines beauty in ways that far surpass a hashtag. Here, she reveals everything you wanted to know—how she maintains her flawless complexion, beauty lessons she's learned, and even her guilty pleasure. But first, that face.
What is your regular skin-care routine?
“Drinking as much water as I can, simple cleanser (I like Eucerin products), toner spray, Epicuren Discovery Acidophilus Probiotic Facial Cream, blemish cream (as needed), undereye cream, occasional face masks.”
What hair stuff can you not live without?
“Scarves and large black cloth elastics. Pantene BB Crème.”
What beauty lessons did you learn from your mother?
“That beauty is from the inside out. My mother always said, ‘Beauty is as beauty does.’ I never understood that then, but I do now.”
Who are your beauty icons?
“Patti Smith, Bianca Jagger, Nina Simone, Bette Davis, Sade.”
When you choose to wear lipstick, what’s your go-to color?
“Currently none, but for lips I do love bright colors—red, deep pinks, even the right kind of orange is beautiful.”
What’s your favorite fitness routine?
“A mixture of cardio and strength training. Does anyone really like to work out? Except that it does make you feel good and stronger and mentally clearer and ready to take on the world.... OK, I like it!”
Guilty-pleasure food?
“Bread! Damn it! Soft, yummy, croissant-like bread.”
More reads on (and secrets from!) our February cover star:
- The Unofficial Style Timeline of Alicia Keys
- Alicia Keys on Makeup, Motherhood, and Her Musical Evolution
- What Alicia Keys Does to Get Glowing Skin
Do you find mirrors tell the truth?
“I find mirrors reflect your perspective.”
What most relaxes you?
“A book, a nap, the breeze, and the sound of the ocean.”
Things you need in your dressing room before a performance?
“My piano, fruit, Throat Coat (tea), and space.”
One lesson about beauty your current self could have taught your teenage self?
“All girls don’t have to look the same, and beauty is not a math equation. And always, always do what feels good for you! Don’t let anyone define beauty for you. It’s your choice.”
Now that you know how Alicia Keys defines beauty, check out what she looked like behind the scenes during her February 2017 Allure cover shoot:
