Penelope Cruz the face of Lancome make-up

“Charm, class and femininity” is how Penélope Cruz defines Lancôme—terms also regularly applied to the Spanish siren herself. After years as the ambassador for its iconic Trésor fragrance, the mesmerising actress has become the face of Lancôme make-up. We talk beauty musts with the Academy Award winner and mother of two.


How did it feel to become the face of Lancôme make-up? 
It’s such an honour to be working with this wonderful brand. Trésor was my first perfume ever and really has been part of me for so many years, and I have always been a fan of so many of their wonderful products. Becoming the ambassador for Lancôme’s make-up is a new step in our collaboration. I’ve always loved the message of the brand—this idea also that beauty should not be a constraint, but something liberating and playful.

What’s your beauty routine? 
I think the main steps to take care of your skin—morning and evening—are to cleanse and hydrate. In the morning, I like applying Visionnaire serum; in the evening, I like using Advanced Génifique.

What’s your own relationship with make-up? 
On days I’m not working, I just wear Teint Miracle foundation, Grandiôse mascara and a few layers of L’Absolu Rouge lipstick. I wear stronger eyes or stronger lips if I’m going out, or if I have a premiere or some type of event. But I always try to take care of my skin with good hydration day and night using Hydra Zen, whose texture and fragrance I really love.

Having met so many great make-up artists over the years, what have you learned? 
I finally learned from them how to do my own eyes. It’s not easy—eyes are really what can seem at first the most complicated to achieve.

How do you take care of your eyes?
I never go to bed without removing the make-up from my eyes and without having applied Absolue L’Extrait Yeux.

What do you expect from mascara in terms of results? 
For me, length and volume are what I’m looking for in a mascara. I think mascara is a must in make-up. It’s like the little black dress for your eyes.

What makes each woman beautiful and unique? 
It’s about deciding to love and respect oneself, to celebrate oneself—to become your own best friend.