When Cindy Crawford is asked about her long-time spokesperson association with skin-care brand Meaningful Beauty, she politely corrects you and stresses that she is actually co-developer of the line—a position she has taken seriously since MB launched some 15-odd years ago. What started as an in-office, vitamin-based treatment has now evolved into a full portfolio of products, with an antioxidant-powered lineup that Crawford credits for being the secret behind her glowing complexion. The 54-year-old recently chatted with us to share her new under-eye must, why she can’t stay in sweatpants all day and what’s top of mind as she turns 55 later this month.
You have tested everything out there. What makes Meaningful Beauty different?
When we started the line, we named it Meaningful Beauty because that’s exactly what I wanted the line to be—products that make a meaningful difference in the look and health of your skin. It all began because of my relationship with Dr. Jean-Louis Sebagh, my go-to skin guy for more than 20 years. He would do these vitamin treatments on me that transformed my skin. They contain SOD, discovered from rare French melons in the south of France. It’s one of the most powerful antioxidants out there…it delays signs of aging while restoring youthfulness and radiance to skin. This exclusive technology is at the heart of all our products and what makes Meaningful Beauty special.
Is there one dream product you’d love to create?
As I’ve gotten older, when I have an early photo shoot, I’ll joke that I can show up that early, but my face might not be awake yet. That’s why I was excited to make our new Youth Activating Smoothing and Refreshing Eye Serum ($58), a cooling eye product to help awaken tired eyes. It’s a gel-serum that instantly hydrates and smooths fine lines and wrinkles. It has a metal tip, so I like storing it in the fridge to get an extra cooling effect when I apply it!
Besides MB, what are some products you’ve used forever?
When I find products that work, I definitely stick with them. I love the Elemis Body Brush, Neutrogena Body Oil, Klorane Dry Shampoo, Charlotte Tilbury’s The Sophisticate eye palette, and an eyebrow pencil with a brush end by Anastasia.
What was the last beauty-related thing you did for the first time?
In the last few years, I’ve had facials done by Thuyen Nguyen. He does massage, but also cupping on the face, which feels amazing and leaves you with a rosy glow.
Is there anything you’ve learned about yourself during the time spent at home?
I’ve learned that I can’t stay in sweatpants all day. I like getting dressed as if everything is normal. It has helped me to feel normal.
Is there anything you’ve been doing differently for wellness during the time spent at home?
I’ve been able to build and maintain my meditation practice. We’ve also been cooking more as a family. I bought the Breville Electric Wok, which has been something we’ve all enjoyed using.
You’ll be 55 this month. Is it something you think about?
Yikes! I hadn’t even thought about that. I thought this year didn’t count. Oh well—it’s just a number. I’m still me. I think I’ve realized over the years that the buildup to a big birthday is worse than the actual event. I feel blessed to have my family and health—this year more than ever.