For as long as I can recall, Bobbi Brown has been a significant presence in my life. I have witnessed her transform women's appearances on the Oprah Winfrey Show, providing makeovers that were truly life-altering. In the midst of my first year as a beauty editor in the bustling city of New York, her "Makeup Manual" served as my go-to guide. When the opportunity arose to have a conversation with Bobbi following her keynote address at the inaugural Travel + Leisure World’s Best Summit, I adorned myself with Jones Road cosmetics and meticulously recorded every piece of wisdom imparted by this renowned makeup artist, brand founder, boutique hotel proprietor, hip hop enthusiast, and proud new grandmother.

A Conversation with Bobbi Brown

Q: What is the highlight of your life at the moment?

A: "Becoming a grandmother is truly the most delightful aspect of my life currently."

Q: What do you perceive as the primary makeup error that individuals are currently committing?

A: "I believe the principal oversight is that individuals are either not wearing sufficient makeup or are not selecting the appropriate makeup. Numerous individuals visit us with a distaste for an overly made-up appearance, yet they are uncertain of the correct approach.

A significant part of my task involves instructing my makeup artists on how to craft a look that gives the illusion of no makeup. It's essential to brighten the under-eye area, apply an adequate amount of blush, and utilize powder for oily skin. Choosing the right products, such as those from Jones Road, which do not produce a cakey appearance, is crucial. Selecting the correct textures for your skin and understanding the needs of your skin, including its changes over time, is vital. Much of the traditional makeup available tends to result in an overly made-up appearance, so it's essential to find products that complement your skin and avoid a cakey look."

Beauty Routine Adjustments for Women Over 40

Q: What adjustments would you recommend for women over the age of 40 regarding their beauty routine?

A: "Contrary to popular belief, do not shy away from moisturizers. Many individuals neglect to use them, resulting in a dry and cakey appearance. On days when my appearance is less than ideal, I apply an Oil Stick all over my face, which significantly enhances my look. It provides the glow and hydration that your skin requires.

Generally, when you appear less radiant, it's often because you're tired and dehydrated. Drinking water and applying oil to your face is beneficial.

For those with combination or oily skin, apply the oil primarily to the cheeks. As I have extremely dry skin, I apply it liberally across my face."

Jones Road Product Uniqueness

Q: What sets Jones Road products apart from the rest?

A: "A lesser-known fact about our Face Pencils is that they feature a clear base. This means that they do not impart a pasty appearance to the face.

Even men can use them to conceal blemishes without looking as though they are wearing makeup. Traditionally, an opaque base is used, with tint applied on top, which can result in an unappealing, whitish cast akin to applying Pepto Bismol to the face."

Concealer Techniques

Q: What is your preferred method for applying concealer?

A: "I prefer to select a concealer that is one shade lighter than the foundation I'm using, as it helps to brighten the complexion.

For most people, one shade is sufficient, but using a second shade that serves as a neutralizer and applying it to the most recessed areas can bring everything to the surface, resulting in a more radiant appearance under the eyes. Although I am a minimalist, utilizing two of these pencils can work wonders."

Frustrating Beauty Trends

Q: Are there any current beauty trends that you find particularly irksome?

A: "I am perplexed by the trend of applying concealer to the outer corners of the eyes. I only apply it where there is darkness. Many content creators do this to lift the eyes, but they fail to target the actual dark areas.

It's essential to extend the application all the way to the lashes. Additionally, I have never been a proponent of contouring, as it tends to highlight perceived flaws and can appear dirty on the face. I prefer to use a bronzer and a highlighter to allow the face to sculpt naturally." Imitation as Flattery

Q: How do you react when you see other brands replicating your products?

A: "I feel quite positive about it, as it signifies that I have achieved something remarkable.

Numerous brands are releasing their versions of the Miracle Balm, but I believe they are not even close to the original."

Appreciation for Other Brands

Q: Which brands do you think are excelling in the beauty industry?

A: "In the realm of beauty, Vacation is a brand that has captured my attention. I am thoroughly impressed with their work.

I initially encountered the founder online and assumed he was a 60-year-old woman, only to discover he is a 30-year-old man with a background in advertising."

Beauty Inspiration

Q: Who would you consider your greatest beauty inspiration?

A: "I greatly admire Naomi Watts. She is among the celebrities who has not resorted to excessive facial procedures, and I find that approach to be incredibly beautiful."

Views on Injections

Q: What are your thoughts on cosmetic injections?

A: "I am not in favor of them."

Preferred Treatments

Q: Are there any treatments you particularly advocate for?

A: "I opt for laser treatments, with Sofwave being my favorite.

I have used it on my face and neck. Additionally, I have undergone a treatment called Heroic, which removes spots from the arms, and I plan to do it again."

Signature Fragrance

Q: What fragrance do you turn to most often?

A: "I have a fragrance that I created called Shower, which has a scent reminiscent of just stepping out of the shower.Another favorite of mine is Je Reviens By Worth, a fragrance my Aunt Alice used to wear, and it holds a special place in my heart."

Roots of Beauty Passion

Q: What initially sparked your interest in the beauty industry?

A: "My mother was always a glamorous woman with a deep appreciation for all things beauty.

While I share her love for beauty, I am quite the opposite in terms of style; she was overly glamorous." Upcoming Jones Road Launches

Q: Can you share any details about upcoming new products from Jones Road?

A: "I am currently developing a sunscreen, as I have yet to find one that meets my standards.

[At this point, she reveals her makeup bag filled with her personal cosmetics.] Would you like to see what's being released next week? We are launching a palette featuring Miracle Balms. There will be three distinct palettes: one for tint, one for blush, and one for highlight." Note: These palettes became available as of July 23rd, priced at $32 each, exclusively at Jones Road stores and JonesRoadBeauty.com.

Business Wisdom

Q: What is the best business advice you can offer?

A: "Maintain a kind and approachable demeanor. Care about your work and the impact it has. I remain involved in every aspect of Jones Road, from doing the makeup and styling for each shoot to art directing and even sourcing jewelry from Amazon."