While she is best known as one of our ultimate fitness inspirations, constantly motivating us to try new workouts and embrace getting strong, there is another, more effortless side to Elsa Pataky’s world: her commitment to natural beauty.
The actress has long been a champion of subtle, radiant makeup on the red carpet, and now she is making it official: when it comes to her complexion, she will choose a glossy finish over matte every single time.
© Europa Press EntertainmentElsa Pataky’s Year-Round Radiant Skin
The Madrid-born star, who celebrates her milestone 50th birthday this upcoming July 18th, has spent the last two years serving as a global ambassador for the skincare brand Biotherm. Backstage at her latest campaign shoot, she opened up about some of her personal favorites in a rapid-fire Q&A spanning film, fitness, and beauty trends.
© Europa Press EntertainmentWhen asked the ultimate beauty question, "Glossy and luminous, or a matte finish?". Elsa didn’t hesitate for a second: "Glossy and luminous, always." True to her word, she rocked an ultra-radiant, natural look in the video, mirroring the exact effortless glow she has been sporting at all her high-profile events, premieres, and television appearances over recent months.
© Pablo CuadraDominating the Red Carpet and Beyond
A translucent, slightly glossy "no-makeup makeup" look has officially established itself as the most dominant beauty trend. While we have seen this ethereal glow take over major fashion events like the MET Gala, Elsa was ahead of the curve. She has even successfully brought the trend to television appearances, a space where heavy matte makeup traditionally ruled to combat the harsh glare of studio lights.
© Europa Press EntertainmentHow to Recreate the Luminous Look
To achieve this fresh, summer-ready finish, professional makeup artists recommend a minimal approach. Swap out heavy foundations for an ultra-fluid, sheer base or skin tint. Then, ditch the traditional powder bronzers in favor of a creamy blush and a stick highlighter.
Depending on how much glow you want, strategically dab the highlighter onto the high points of the face: the tops of the cheekbones, the temples, and down the bridge of the nose. It is a universally flattering technique for all generations, but it works like magic for women over 45, as mature skin thrives on hydrating textures that won't cake, dry out, or settle into fine lines.
© Carlos AlvarezLess Makeup, More Skincare
The real secret to this trend doesn't actually lie in your makeup bag; it’s all about the prep. Skin health is the true driver behind that lit-from-within glow. In fact, when pressed to choose between "skincare" or "makeup" during her backstage interview, Elsa chose skincare without a second thought.
To naturally boost your skin's radiance, dermatologists recommend incorporating antioxidant serums, like Vitamin C, into your daily routine, alongside barrier-repairing moisturizers that lock in deep hydration. By focusing on an even, calm, and hydrated complexion, you can skip the full-coverage products altogether and let your natural skin take center stage.
