As seen on globanow.com
Viola Davis lit up the red carpet at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, turning heads in a custom neon Gucci gown during the premiere of Mastermind. But it wasn’t just the fashion that had people talking—it was her stunningly radiant skin that truly stole the show.
And believe it or not, her glow-up secret is surprisingly affordable.
In a candid interview with New Beauty just a day before her red carpet appearance, the 59-year-old Oscar-winning actress revealed that one of her must-have skincare staples costs just $20—the L’Oréal Revitalift Bright Reveal Peel Pads.
“I’m a product girl every day. I’ve got to do some level of an acid peel wipe. L’Oréal has some of the best ones,” Davis shared.
These peel pads are soaked in glycolic acid, a type of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), which gently exfoliates dead skin cells to reveal a brighter, smoother complexion. The textured surface of the pad also helps remove dullness and unclog pores, making it a quick and easy boost to your skincare routine.
A Beauty Philosophy Years in the Making
Viola Davis’ beauty routine isn’t just about great products—it reflects a deeper shift in how she sees herself.
“Now I feel like I have a worthy canvas, and I never felt that before,” Davis said. “I look at my lips, I look at my cheeks, I look at my smile and my eyes, and I think, ‘How can I emphasize that and not hide it?’”
She’s embraced bold choices like statement lip colors, highlighter on her cheeks, and fluttery lashes—not to cover up, but to celebrate who she is. For Davis, beauty now means enhancing her features, not masking them.
Her Other Beauty Essential? Self-Care.
Long before Davis walked red carpets and held prestigious awards, she was learning to prioritize something many of us forget: herself.
In an earlier conversation with Parade, Davis reflected on how her rising career prompted a shift in perspective.
“All the things I wished for started happening. Then I had to ask myself, ‘What do you want? What actually makes you happy?’ That’s when self-care really kicked in,” she explained.
Self-care for Davis is simple but powerful. She prioritizes rest, reading, baths, and trying new experiences—even the adventurous kind. One of her most thrilling moments? Jumping out of an airplane.
“Skydiving was fun! I jumped from 13,000 feet. For 30 seconds you free fall at 200 miles per hour—it’s the ultimate definition of letting go and letting God,” she recalled. “Of course, in the last 40 seconds a few choice words may have come out.”
The Glow Is More Than Skin Deep
Viola Davis’ age-defying glow isn’t just the result of a $20 product—though the L’Oréal Revitalift Bright Reveal Peel Pads certainly help. It’s also a reflection of how she’s come to value herself from the inside out.
Her beauty mantra? Celebrate yourself. Whether that’s through a bold red lip, a steamy jacuzzi session, or simply a good night’s sleep, Davis reminds us that self-love and glowing skin often go hand in hand.
So if you’re looking to elevate your skincare game without breaking the bank, maybe it’s time to try one of Hollywood’s best-kept secrets—because if it’s good enough for Viola, it’s good enough for us.
Conclusion
Viola Davis proves that timeless beauty doesn’t have to come with a luxury price tag. With her $20 skincare go-to, a commitment to self-care, and a renewed sense of confidence, she embodies what it means to glow from within. Her journey reminds us that embracing who we are—flaws, features, and all—is the true foundation of beauty. Whether it’s peel pads or personal growth, Davis shows that taking care of yourself is always in style.
