While good genes coupled with personal make-up artists play a major part in the glowing complexions we see on the red carpets during awards season, there's also an army of skin doctors who quietly help the A-list prep their skin for the close-ups behind the scenes.
One of the go-to dermatologists for the rich and famous is Dr David Colbert, whose clinic welcomes the likes of Emma Stone and Sienna Miller – just two members of the #colbertcrew, as they're known in New York. So, what exactly are they getting done behind closed doors?
The Runway Facial, £2000
The Runway Facial, enjoyed by Michelle Williams and Chloe Sevigny prior to the Emmys and Golden Globes, is said to grant camera-ready skin with zero downtime. Combining advanced medical skincare technology (including laser toning, infrared light waves, IPL and LED therapy) with the cosmetic boost of a facial (microdermabrasion, plus a personalised peel), this treatment delivers rapid hydration with a tightening effect and brightens the appearance of the skin. Hello glow.
The Triad Facial, £800
Dr Colbert's Triad Facial combines advanced medical and cosmetic skin care technologies into one effective renewal treatment. The three-part process features microdermabrasion, laser toning, and a chemical peel all in 20 minutes with zero downtime. The result is both short and long term – it gives an instant boost, but also initiates a sustained process of cell rejuvenation and collagen stimulation. Perhaps that's why Sienna Miller and Sophie Turner (who have all had it prior to the Emmys and Golden Globes) look so impossibly fresh-faced.
While Dr Colbert practises exclusively in America, here in the UK, both treatments are performed by oculofacial plastic surgeon Costas Papageorgiou MD FACS at the Harrods Wellness Clinic. But should you want in for less, there's also Dr Colbert's eponymous line, ColbertMD, plus NYDG Skincare–the accompanying products from his New York clinic; both of which the dermatologist directs his clientele to use for red carpet ready skin. Here's how...
The night before:
Dr Colbert recommends using his Intensify Facial Discs the night before a big event. Apply to a clean, damp face in a circular motion, continuing for 30 to 60 seconds then rinse immediately with water to promote healthy, glowing skin.
The morning of:
He says to begin with his Tone Control Facial Discs which you apply to a clean, damp face in a circular motion, continuing for 30 to 60 seconds (without rinsing off). Next, the Illumino Brightening Anti-Aging Mask can be applied to clean, dry skin and left on for 15 minutes, with any remaining serum massaged into the skin.
Pre-make-up application:
Before make-up, Dr Colbert advises applying the NYDG Re-Contour Eye Gelto hydrate and rejuvenate the eye contour area (keep it in the fridge overnight to help fight puffiness) and then the NYDG Luminizing Skin Essence all over the face. Apparently, the Victoria's Secret models apply this to their arms and legs, too, for a supple, slightly glowing effect before stepping onto the catwalk.
In addition – or, alternatively – his best advice will cost you nothing. 'In my book The High School Reunion Diet, I urge people to avoid excess sugars and alcohol, to drink at least six glasses of water a day, starting in the next five minutes,' Dr Colbert says, given his belief that glowing, healthy skin is strongly related to gut health.
'And sleep… lots. Follow a sleep routine that involves winding down from the day and relaxing.' Something we're easily onboard with – red carpet or not.
