Skin First, Makeup Second: The Clean Beauty Secret Behind Every Red Carpet Look.

When you see flawless skin glowing under bright lights, it’s easy to assume it’s all makeup. But the truth? The best looks start long before foundation ever touches the face. As a Los Angeles hair and makeup artist, Autumn Brooke knows that healthy, balanced skin is the real secret behind every radiant, camera-ready moment.

The Foundation Before Foundation

Every celebrity hair and makeup artist in Hollywood knows that skin prep is the step that makes or breaks a look. When skin is properly hydrated and supported, makeup doesn’t just sit on top — it melts in and moves with you.

Autumn’s clean beauty philosophy centers on products that feed the skin, not hide it. She opts for lightweight serums, barrier-supporting moisturizers, and primers that smooth without clogging pores, helping skin look fresh under both natural light and studio lighting.

Why Clean Beauty Matters

Autumn believes that what you put on your skin should enhance your health, not compromise it. That’s why she gravitates toward clean beauty brands free of unnecessary fragrance, silicones, and harsh additives. These formulas create that signature LA glow — luminous, never greasy — while respecting the skin’s microbiome and texture.

Her clients often notice that their makeup lasts longer and feels lighter when their skin is treated well. That’s not coincidence; it’s science meeting artistry.

The Red Carpet Prep Routine

Before any major event or shoot, Autumn takes a skincare-first approach that sets the tone for everything that follows:

1. Cleanse gently to remove buildup without stripping moisture.

2. Hydrate with a water-based serum packed with hyaluronic acid or niacinamide.

3. Moisturize with a lightweight cream that locks in hydration without creating slip.

4. Prime with a breathable formula to smooth texture and extend wear time.

This method not only enhances makeup application — it allows the natural beauty of the skin to shine through.