She stars as Renee Segna in the hit Jerry Bruckheimer–produced STARZ series Hightown and she’s been compared to Charlize Theron. A not-so-shabby resume by anyone’s standards, and Riley Voelkel is just getting started. The 33-year-old recently chatted with us about “living in the moment” and her long list of tested beauty go-tos.
What are you excited about for fans to see in the season finale?
I’m so excited for the viewers to see this final episode! There are some unreal performances by my fellow castmates, and our incredibly talented showrunner, Rebecca Cutter, directed an amazing finale. It’s been a crazy journey for our characters, and I’m excited for the viewers to see where their journey ends, or for some, where their journey begins. Some big reveals happen, and we get to see the outcome of each of our characters’ search for redemption. It’s a wild rollercoaster of emotions, and I hope the fans love the finale as much as we loved making it.
Wellness and fitness are a big part of your day-to-day. Is there anything “out-there” you do for self-care?
Nothing too out-there, I just stick to the things that I’ve found work best for me. I love Pilates and yoga and feel that they nurture both mind and body. I go to a Pilates class a few times a week and try to do at-home yoga sessions when I can. I also try to stick to a mostly paleo diet, which has made a massive difference in how I feel day-to-day. I still have cheat days of course! And I love doing a nightly skin-care routine and giving myself time to relax before bed. Sometimes, it’s hard to make time for self-care, but it makes such a difference in my day that I try my best to prioritize it.
What are some of your beauty go-tos?
One of my all-time favorite beauty products is Glossier’s Futuredew oil serum hybrid ($28). I have dry skin and this product always keeps me feeling moisturized. Every night I take my makeup off with a moisturizing cleansing balm. I love both the Eve Lom ($85) and Farmacy ($36) cleansing balms. Thanks to my friend and co-star Claire Holt, I also started using Clean Skin Club’s disposable face towels ($17) and I’m obsessed. Using a fresh—and biodegradable—towel every time I wash my face is a game-changer! Tula Skincare’s Gold Glow + Get It Cooling and Brightening Eye Balm ($38) is one of my favorite under-eye products. I use it under my concealer, and it feels so refreshing. Chanel’s Sheer Highlighting Fluid ($54) is also one of my staples. It gives your skin the perfect glow. And my newest obsession is YSL’s Candy Glaze Lip Gloss Sticks ($42). They melt on the lips, look beautiful and smell delicious!
How does it feel to be compared to Charlize Theron?
Extremely flattering…she’s someone I really look up to. I’m inspired by her style, talent, and career, and am honored to be compared in any way. I definitely aspire to have a career that could be as impactful as the one she has and would love to work with her one day.
Out of all your roles, what sticks out to you as a memorable glam experience?
Definitely playing Renee in Hightown. We had incredible hair, makeup and costume teams who really brought her to life. It’s not often that you get to play a role that calls for full glam, and we had so much fun creating her different looks. I remember our makeup team saying, “We never get to pull out the glitter and now we finally can!” Every day was like playing dress up! From the big hair, to the lashes, to the amazing clothes and shoes, we got to play with it all.
Photographer: Tyler Patrick Kenny | Stylist: Alison Hernon | Hair: Corey Tuttle | Makeup: Liz Olivier
More of Riley Voelkel’s favorite beauty products, below
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