Bobbi Brown answers our burning beauty questions

Bobbi Brown is a bona fide beauty icon.

In addition to parlaying a small line of lipsticks into her billion-dollar namesake brand — whose famous fans range from Kate Middleton to Kim Kardashian — the makeup artist has also authored nine beauty books and hosts a podcast on the subject.

And since stepping down from Bobbi Brown Cosmetics in 2016, she’s also launched her second cosmetics company: Jones Road, which bowed in 2020.

So we could think of nobody better to ask for answers to a few of the most-Googled beauty questions out there. Below, Brown’s advice on foundation matching, layering skincare and more.

How do I get a summer glow?

Whether you’re looking to add a little “anytime” color or simply keep up that beach-y glow you worked hard all season to achieve, Brown recommends reaching for a cream bronzer, like Jones Road’s Miracle Balm ($38).

Be sure to tap it onto all the high points of your face — that’s cheeks, forehead, nose and chin — for the most naturally sun-kissed look. You can even go in with a lighter shade afterward for some additional illumination; try patting it on your cheekbones, brow bone and Cupid’s bow.

How do I find the perfect foundation shade?

Nailing your base can be tough. “It doesn’t matter what it looks like on your hand,” Brown told us. “I recommend checking it on your forehead; if it disappears, it’s the right color. [And] checking it on the side of the face; if it disappears, it’s the right color.”

The makeup artist also likes using a lighter shade under the eyes to eliminate dark circles.

How do I do a cat eye?

Brown’s top tip? “Make sure your pencil is sharpened,” she said. “Start to line from the inner corner out, and then take your hand and gently flick it a little bit up [at the end].”

Added the makeup artist, “Do it a little bit at a time; you can always add more. Go slow!”

What’s the correct order to apply skincare products?

Always start with washing your face, or at least splashing it with water in the morning. Sunscreen comes next — no matter what the season — followed by moisturizer. Finally, apply an eye cream, which Brown said will help concealer go on smoothly and help avoid creasing.

Once you’ve put on makeup, Brown added, you can use a little face oil “if you’re really dry.”

“But really, all you need is a sunscreen, a moisturizer and an eye cream, in that order,” she said.